Companion Animals

Cat Senior Wellness and Proactive Health Management

Senior cats (over 10 years) have specific health risks that are best managed through proactive regular assessment rather than waiting for clinical signs.

Key Facts

Cats over 10 years are considered senior with significantly elevated disease risk
Hyperthyroidism, chronic kidney disease, and dental disease are the most common senior conditions
Six-monthly rather than annual health checks are recommended for senior cats
Blood pressure measurement should be routine from age 10 as hypertension is common
Weight loss in senior cats is a significant sign often attributed incorrectly to normal ageing

Welfare Considerations

Senior cats often mask illness effectively, meaning by the time clinical signs are obvious, disease is advanced. Proactive six-monthly health screening identifies conditions at earlier, more treatable stages, dramatically improving welfare outcomes.

What You Can Do

Schedule six-monthly wellness checks for cats over 10 years
Weigh your senior cat monthly and report loss of more than 10% to your vet
Monitor thirst, appetite, and litter box use as early warning indicators
Discuss senior screening panels including thyroid and kidney function with your vet