Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee
Whether you've had your senior cat since they were a kitten or you've adopted an older kitty in their sunset years, there's no denying that as cats age, their health needs change significantly.
Senior cats are more prone to various illnesses, but early detection and proactive care can greatly improve their quality of life. That's why it's so important to understand the most common health conditions affecting older cats so you can support your aging feline to live a comfortable and healthy life.
Senior pet owners should read on to find out which issues could affect their cats in the years to come.
Kidney Disease
One of the most common health issues in older cats is kidney disease, particularly chronic kidney disease (CKD).1 As cats age, their kidneys lose the ability to filter waste from the blood effectively, leading to a buildup of waste products in the body. The gradual decline in kidney function often goes unnoticed until symptoms become severe.
Symptoms
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Weight loss
- Vomiting
Care tips
Regular veterinary checkups are crucial for early detection of kidney disease. If your senior cat is diagnosed with CKD, your vet may recommend a special diet formulated to support kidney health. These diets are low in phosphorus and protein to reduce the kidneys' workload.
Medication may also be prescribed to manage symptoms. Ensure your cat always has access to fresh water, as dehydration can exacerbate the condition. Regular blood and urine tests can help monitor kidney function over time. Pet insurance for older pets is essential to help manage the costs of veterinarian visits and medications as your kitty ages.
Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes is another common illness in senior cats, especially those who are overweight. This condition occurs when the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or doesn't use it effectively, resulting in elevated blood glucose levels. Diabetes can severely affect a cat's metabolism and overall health if left untreated.
Symptoms
- Increased appetite and/or thirst
- Frequent urination
- Weight loss
Care tips
Although there is no cure for feline diabetes, it can be managed with careful monitoring of blood glucose levels, which may involve at-home testing or regular vet visits.2 Insulin injections, administered according to your vet's instructions, are typically necessary to regulate blood sugar levels. A balanced diet is also essential—your vet may recommend a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet to help control blood glucose levels. Consistent feeding times and portion control can also play a vital role in managing diabetes.
Arthritis
Just like humans, cats can develop arthritis as they age. Arthritis causes inflammation and pain in the joints, making movement difficult and uncomfortable. While this condition can affect any joint, it's most commonly seen in the hips, knees and spine of senior cats. However, cats are especially adept at hiding arthritis pain. You might notice your cat looking uncomfortable going up or down the stairs or getting in and out of the litter box, especially if it's raised. Or perhaps your cat isn't doing her usual stretches after waking from a nap, or she's avoiding jumping up onto surfaces.
Symptoms
- Difficulty jumping
- Stiffness, particularly after rest
- Reduced activity levels
Care tips
There are some newer medications that can help with feline arthritis, so check in with your veterinarian for advice on treatment options. Weight loss for overweight cats, more exercise or physical rehabilitation may also help.3 In addition, creating a more accessible environment is key. Provide soft, comfortable bedding and add ramps or steps to help your cat reach their favorite resting spots without the need for jumping. Regular, gentle exercise can also help keep your cat mobile without putting too much strain on their joints.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is a common endocrine disorder in older cats that is caused by an overactive thyroid gland.4 This gland makes several different hormones and controls the body's metabolism. When the thyroid becomes overactive, it speeds up the metabolism, causing a range of symptoms.
Symptoms
- Increased appetite
- Weight loss despite eating more
- Increased thirst and urination
- Hyperactivity
- Crankiness
- Unkempt appearance
Care tips
If your cat is diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, your vet will likely recommend medication to regulate thyroid hormone levels. In more severe cases, surgery or radiation therapy may be required to remove or destroy the overactive thyroid tissue. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor thyroid hormone levels and adjust treatment as needed.
Dental Disease
Dental health is often overlooked in cats. While tooth problems can be difficult for owners to spot, oral health is a crucial aspect of overall feline well-being.5 As cats age, their teeth and gums can deteriorate, leading to painful conditions such as gingivitis, tooth decay and even tooth loss.
Symptoms
- Bad breath
- Drooling
- Decreased grooming
- Difficulty eating
- Inflamed gums
Care tips
Regular dental checkups are vital to maintaining your cat's oral health. Your vet may recommend professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup. At home, you can help prevent dental disease by brushing your cat's teeth regularly with pet-safe toothpaste and providing dental treats or toys that promote oral hygiene. If your cat shows signs of discomfort while eating, consult your vet—your kitty may need dental treatment or extractions.
Heart Disease
Heart disease is another concern for senior cats, often developing as they age due to wear and tear on the heart muscles. Cats with heart disease may have difficulty pumping blood efficiently, leading to a range of symptoms. It can be difficult to detect heart disease in cats, as they often show no outward signs.6
Symptoms
- Coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Lethargy
Care tips
Heart disease can be managed with a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. Your vet may prescribe medications to improve heart function and reduce fluid buildup. Providing a calm, stress-free environment is important, as stress can exacerbate heart problems. Monitoring your cat for any changes in behavior or breathing is crucial, as early intervention can help manage the progression of the disease.
Cancer
Approximately six million cats in the U.S. are diagnosed with cancer annually.7 And as cats age, their risk of developing cancer increases. While cancer can affect various parts of the body, common types in senior cats include lymphoma, mammary tumors and squamous cell carcinoma. Early detection is key to improving outcomes.
Symptoms
- Unexplained weight loss
- Lumps or bumps under the skin
- Changes in appetite or behavior
Care tips
Regular veterinary checkups and screenings can help detect cancer early, improving the chances of successful treatment. Depending on the type and stage of cancer, treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Your vet will guide you through the available options and help you make the best decision for your cat's quality of life. Pain management and palliative care may also be necessary to keep your cat comfortable.
Pets Best Is Here To Help at All Ages and Stages
As the years pass and your cat ages—or if you decide to adopt a senior pet—keep an eye out for any changes in behavior, appetite or physical condition to help catch potential health issues early. Whether it's kidney disease, diabetes or cancer, early detection, proactive care and regular veterinarian visits are crucial for maintaining your cat's quality of life.
For more information on caring for senior cats and understanding the best pet insurance options for older pets, visit Pets Best. If you have questions or concerns about your cat's health at any time of day or night, access the 24/7 Pet Helpline for expert advice.
Sources/ Citations
- “Chronic Kidney Disease," (3/2019), Cornell Feline Health Center, https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/chronic-kidney-disease
- “Feline Diabetes," (2024), Cornell Feline Health Center, https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/feline-diabetes
- “Osteoarthritis in Cats: More Common Than You Think," (9/2023), U.S. Food & Drug Administration, https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/osteoarthritis-cats-more-common-you-think
- “Hyperthyroidism in Cats: Symptoms and Treatment," Lorie Huston (3/2020), PetMD, https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/endocrine/c_ct_hyperthyroidism
- “Dental Disease in Cats," Courtney Barnes et al. (n.d.), VCA Animal Hospitals, https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/dental-disease-in-cats
- “Heart Disease - Cats," (n.d.), Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, https://vet.tufts.edu/foster-hospital-small-animals/specialty-services/cardiology/heartsmart/heart-disease-cats
- “Cancer in Cats," Charlotte Hacker (3/2024), PetMD, https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/cancer/cancer-cats