The senior cat stage
Many cats enjoy long, happy years after the age of ten. Comfort, easy access, a calm routine and regular veterinary follow-up make this stage a good one.
In het kort
- Make the litter box, water, food and bed easier to reach.
- Provide warm, soft and low resting spots.
- Grooming may decline; support your cat with gentle brushing.
- Veterinary check-ups are usually recommended more often.
- Note changes in weight, appetite, drinking and behavior.
Cats are considered seniors from about 10 years of age. Many are still curious and affectionate, but their bodies and habits change. The goal is to adapt the home to these changes and notice problems early.
What is happening in this stage?
- Mobility and the ability to jump may decrease.
- Grooming may decline, and the coat can look untidier.
- Sleep increases, and interest in warm spots may grow.
- Changes in sight, hearing and orientation may appear.
What should you do differently?
- Access: Low-sided litter boxes, a litter box on every floor, and easy-to-reach food and water bowls.
- Comfort: Soft, warm and low beds; steps up to favourite high spots.
- Grooming: Gentle, short brushing sessions; nail checks (older cats' claws can thicken).
- Play: Short, slow games close to the floor; scent and exploration for mental stimulation.
- Routine: Avoid sudden changes and keep the home layout steady.
What should you monitor?
- Weight (regular weighing) and muscle loss
- Appetite and drinking
- Litter box habits
- Changes in grooming, movement and behavior
- Night-time vocalising or restlessness
Expected behavior
More sleep, a preference for warm spots and less jumping are natural parts of ageing. Any new change, however, deserves to be shared with your vet.
Reminders
- Check-ups as often as your veterinarian recommends (usually more often)
- Monthly weighing and noting changes
- Nail and dental checks
De leeftijdsgrenzen zijn bij benadering; verschillen binnen een soort (zoals grootte bij honden) kunnen de overgangen vervroegen of vertragen.
Deze inhoud is algemene informatie en vervangt geen onderzoek of diagnose door een dierenarts. Maak je je zorgen over de gezondheid van je dier, neem dan contact op met je dierenarts.