As cats get older, a handful of health problems become much more common: kidney disease, an overactive thyroid, arthritis, dental disease and weight changes. Most develop slowly and cats hide discomfort well, so knowing what to look for helps you spot trouble early, when it is easiest to manage.
This guide gives you the overview and links to a detailed article on each condition. If you are not sure whether your cat counts as a senior yet, start with when a cat is considered senior.
The five problems to know about
| Condition | What you may notice | Read more |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney disease | Drinking and urinating more, weight loss, poor appetite, dull coat | Kidney disease signs |
| Hyperthyroidism | Weight loss despite a big appetite, thirst, restlessness, vomiting | Hyperthyroidism in cats |
| Arthritis | Less jumping, less play, more resting, missing the litter box | Arthritis signs |
| Dental disease | Bad breath, drooling, dropping food, pawing at the mouth | Dental disease |
| Weight problems | Hard to feel the ribs, no waist, or ribs that stick out | Healthy cat weight |
These conditions can overlap. For example, an overweight cat is more likely to develop arthritis, and a cat with dental pain may eat less and lose weight. A vet can tell what is really going on.
How often should a senior cat see the vet?
At least twice a year. The Cornell Feline Health Center recommends twice-yearly visits for cats aged 10 and over, and the AAHA/AAFP guidelines say senior cats should be seen at least every six months, more often if they have a chronic condition. A senior check typically includes a full exam, weight, blood pressure, a dental check and, depending on your vet's advice, bloodwork and a urine test.
A simple monthly check at home
- Weigh your cat. Write the number down. A change of even a few ounces matters in a cat.
- Watch the water bowl. Is your cat drinking or urinating more than usual?
- Notice appetite. Eating more, less, or dropping food are all worth mentioning.
- Check the litter box. Accidents, straining, or larger clumps can be early clues.
- Watch movement. Hesitating before jumps, avoiding stairs or sleeping in new low spots can point to sore joints.
- Look at the mouth and coat. Bad breath, red gums, a greasy or unkempt coat.
Bring your notes to the vet. Small trends over weeks are exactly what a vet wants to hear about.
When not to wait
Call a vet promptly if your cat stops eating, strains in the litter box without passing urine, breathes with difficulty, collapses, or suddenly seems to lose its sight. A cat that stops eating can develop serious liver problems, so a missed meal or two is not something to watch for long.
Breed and age
Some breeds carry extra risks. For example, kidney cysts are a known concern in Persians, as covered in our Persian lifespan guide. Browse more in our breed guides, see the longest-living cat breeds, or read about every cat life stage.
To see where your cat sits in human years, use the PurrAge calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common health problems in older cats?
Cornell's Feline Health Center lists chronic kidney disease, diabetes, dental disease, hyperthyroidism and certain cancers as more common in older cats. Arthritis and weight changes are also very common.
How do I know if my senior cat is in pain?
Cats rarely cry out. More often they move less, jump less, groom less, hide, or change their litter box habits. These are signs to raise with your vet.
Should a senior cat have blood tests?
Many vets recommend regular bloodwork and a urine test for senior cats, because some conditions, such as kidney disease and hyperthyroidism, can be found before obvious signs appear. Ask your vet what suits your cat.
Can older cats still be healthy and happy?
Yes. Many cats live well into their teens with regular checks, a healthy weight, good dental care and a comfortable home.
Food matters more as cats age. Read our senior cat diet guide for protein, water and portion advice, and see wet vs dry cat food for hydration.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice. If your cat seems unwell, contact a vet.