Senior cats (11 years and older) have specific health and welfare needs that require proactive management to maintain quality of life.
Senior cat welfare requires proactive rather than reactive management. The stoic nature of cats means pain and disease are often masked until significantly advanced — regular monitoring, biannual health checks, and owner education about subtle signs of decline are essential. Arthritis, the most underdiagnosed senior cat condition, causes daily pain that reduces mobility, social interaction, and grooming effectiveness. Environmental adaptations that restore access to preferred spaces, food stations, and litter trays without painful climbing support independence and quality of life. Pain management for arthritis and other conditions should be discussed at every senior health check.