Cats are living longer due to improved nutrition and veterinary care, creating new welfare challenges associated with ageing and age-related disease.
The welfare of senior cats requires proactive recognition of age-related disease. Osteoarthritis is estimated to affect over 90 percent of cats over 12 years old but is frequently undetected because cats mask pain. Chronic kidney disease causes progressive nausea and malaise that owners may misattribute to normal ageing. Cognitive dysfunction causes distress to both cat and owner. Pain management, dietary modification, and environmental adaptation including lower-sided litter boxes and ramps can significantly improve senior cat welfare. End-of-life recognition and euthanasia timing are central welfare challenges for geriatric cats.