When is a cat senior?

Age is a reason to pay closer attention, not an explanation for every change. The 2021 AAHA/AAFP Feline Life Stage Guidelines class cats over 10 years as senior, while Cornell emphasizes that cats age as individuals. Ask your vet what stage your cat is in and what that changes about their care.

A label, not a diagnosis

The useful part of the label is planning: easier access to resources, regular examinations, and a record of appetite, weight and behavior. A birthday cannot tell you how comfortable a cat is or which tests they need. A younger-looking cat can still have an illness that is hard to see.

Compare with your own cat

Watch familiar activities: reaching a window, grooming the back, entering the litter box, greeting you, eating a meal. Write down what changed and when. Videos of movement at home can help your vet understand a change that does not happen in the exam room.

Do not file it under old age

Cornell advises contacting a veterinarian about changes in behavior or physical condition rather than assuming they are inevitable. Eating less, weight loss, new accidents or avoiding touch deserve a conversation. Bring your notes and ask what to watch between visits.

Keep the small changes in view.PawLine offers research-based answers tailored to your cat's age, history and situation. Free to download; see the store listing for current offers, pricing and trial terms.PawLine

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