Top Signs of an Aging Cat: What to Watch Out For
Signs of Aging in Cats
1. Slower Reactions
As cats age, their bodies begin to show signs of aging, leading to a decrease in their reaction times. Studies have shown that a young cat's nerve conduction speed can be as high as 6000m/s, but it slows down to just 1300m/s as they grow older.
2. Decreased Energy
Older cats tend to lose their vitality quickly and spend much of their day sleeping, much like kittens. We should ensure they have a cozy bed to rest in, and if they enjoy heights, provide them with a staircase to help them reach their favorite spots.
3. Diminished Vision
The lens in a cat's eye can become cloudy with age, resulting in a decline in vision. Cats with diabetes are particularly prone to cataracts. Regularly cleaning their eyes and maintaining good eye care is essential.
4. Oral Health Issues
Years of accumulated tartar can lead to dental problems in older cats. Dental calculus can cause bad breath, drooling, and inflamed gums. Regular teeth brushing is crucial to prevent gum inflammation and bacterial infections.
5. Changes in Taste
Cats' tastes can change as they age, with some becoming picky or overeating. Adjusting their diet to accommodate these changes, offering a variety of flavors, and supplementing with calcium, iron, vitamins, and other trace elements is important.
6. Difficulty with Elimination
The decline in kidney and digestive functions can lead to difficulties with elimination, such as frequent urination or constipation. Providing highquality litter boxes and litter can help improve their bathroom experience.
Overall, cat owners can use these signs to determine if their feline companions are entering their golden years. We also recommend that cats over six years old have a yearly health checkup at our veterinary clinic.
The time we spend with our pets may seem fleeting to us, but it is a lifetime of companionship for them. As cats age, it is our responsibility as owners to better understand and care for them, to minimize their discomfort, and to help them enjoy their final years.
Tip: Click 'What Happens When Cats Age' to learn more about the signs of aging in cats.
