Senior cat health problems: what to watch for

Cats are considered seniors from around age 10–11 (though some vets use 7 as the cut-off for large breeds). The good news is that with regular monitoring and vet care, many cats live comfortably into their late teens.

The most common senior cat health problems

1. Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
The single most common disease in older cats. The kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste. Early signs: increased thirst and urination, weight loss, occasional vomiting. By the time clinical signs appear, 75% of kidney function may already be lost — which is why twice-yearly blood and urine tests matter. Management includes prescription kidney diets, phosphate binders, and subcutaneous fluids.

2. Hyperthyroidism
See our dedicated article on cat hyperthyroidism. Weight loss + ravenous appetite is the classic combination.

3. Hypertension (high blood pressure)
Often secondary to CKD or hyperthyroidism. Causes sudden blindness (retinal detachment) if untreated. Blood pressure measurement should be part of every senior cat health check.

4. Dental disease
Painful gum and tooth disease affects most cats by age 10. Signs: drooling, dropping food, reduced appetite, bad breath, reluctance to eat hard food.

5. Arthritis (degenerative joint disease)
Underdiagnosed in cats because they hide pain and simply move less. Watch for: not jumping as high, reluctance to use stairs or the litter box, personality changes, decreased grooming of hard-to-reach areas.

6. Cancer
Lymphoma is the most common feline cancer and is often treatable. Skin tumours (especially on pale ears and nose) are also common. Any unexplained lump or weight loss should be investigated.

7. Cognitive dysfunction syndrome
Feline dementia: night howling, disorientation, forgetting litter box training, staring at walls. Medication and environmental enrichment help.

The twice-yearly senior health check

After age 10, seeing your vet every 6 months — with routine bloodwork and urine testing — is the single most impactful thing you can do for your cat''s longevity. Most senior diseases are managed best when caught early.