Around now, your cat may begin to show signs of aging, such as a decline in physique, graying fur, and changes in their eyes, teeth, and coat. Just like in humans, there are some tell-tale signs of senior status among cats.
While senior cats are often still healthy and full of life, they may begin to slow down a little. Beyond physical decline, senior cats may also exhibit dementia. Some common signs of feline dementia include frequent meowing, disorientation, and excessive sleeping. Simple lifestyle tweaks, such as specially formulated food can help your senior cat make the most of their twilight years. Cats have an average life expectancy of 16 to 18 years , though some cats may live even longer. In fact, according to the Cornell Feline Health Center , many cats live to be 20 or Certain cat breeds are known to have notably long life expectancies while some are more susceptible to certain health issues than others.
For instance, both Siamese and Savannah cats are said to have a life span as long as 20 years. According to the UC Davis Department of Veterinary Medicine , indoor cats are expected to live much longer than outdoor cats. This is largely because indoor cats face fewer hazards than cats who live outdoors. Outdoor cats are vulnerable to threats like predators, traffic, toxins, and diseases from other animals that indoor cats may never come into contact with. Keep outdoor cats safe with these tips.
Of course, nothing is ever guaranteed. Even indoor cats that are extremely well cared for may fall ill unexpectedly, while breeds that are highly prone to certain health afflictions may never be affected by them. Naturally, we all want our pets to live forever. They are also two of the few aspects you have control over. Feeding your cat a high-quality, balanced diet will help them stay healthy and happy throughout each stage of their life. As they age, their fur becomes softer and finer.
When a cat reaches senior age, the fur becomes thick and coarse again and may turn grey in certain places. Younger cats will have better muscle tone because they are more active. Older cats may be saggier-skinned and bonier on the rump or shoulder blades. It is said that a cat who lives outdoors ages nearly twice as fast as an indoor cat. At 14 cat years old, an indoor only cat would be 72 human years old, and an outdoor cat would be years old. This rate of aging kicks in around the 3 year mark.
Whether indoor or outdoor, a cat ages a lot the first 2 years. When a cat is nearly one year old, they are approximately 15 human years old. Chart courtesy of Fred L. The above ages are intended as general guidelines only. Be sure to ask your veterinarian at what age she or he would consider your pet a senior or geriatric. If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian — they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.
Skip to main content. Did you know? Read more fascinating cat facts here. The milestones are:. The difference between a smooth iris and a crackly looking one can be the difference between a young cat and a senior one. And if you notice tearing and eye discharge, you likely have a senior cat on your hands.
As in humans, a higher activity level gives your cat muscle definition. So, if you notice that your cat tends to lose muscle mass or they don't like to move around too much, this might be a sign of ageing.
Older cats may be bonier, have extra skin hanging or protruding shoulder blades. Read our cat body condition guide for more tips. Fine, soft fur is usually reserved for young cats only. Older cats tend to have a thicker, coarser fur with patches of grey hair.
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