Cat Senior Wellness - Proactive Assessment

Proactive wellness assessment approaches for senior cats, enabling early detection of age-related conditions before clinical signs appear.

Key Facts

Cats aged 11 and over have a 90% probability of having at least one chronic disease on thorough veterinary assessment
International Society of Feline Medicine recommends twice-yearly health checks for cats over 10 years
Blood pressure measurement is recommended in all senior cats as hypertension is common and treatable
Body composition assessment distinguishing fat mass from muscle mass provides better welfare indicator than weight alone
Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) affects an estimated 28% of cats over 11 years and 50% over 15 years

Welfare Considerations

This topic has significant welfare implications for the animals involved. Evidence-based management approaches and appropriate veterinary care can substantially improve outcomes.

What You Can Do

Consult your veterinarian for guidance specific to your situation
Follow evidence-based management protocols
Monitor animals closely and intervene promptly when welfare concerns arise
Stay updated with current research and best practices
Share knowledge with others to improve welfare across the sector