Watch for these 10 signs that your cat is getting older
- They’re Sleeping More Than Usual
As cats age, they tend to sleep more. This is perfectly normal and nothing to be concerned about. However, if you notice that your cat is sleeping more than usual and seems lethargic, it could be a sign of an underlying health condition and you should take them to the vet. - Their Appetite Has Changed
Another common sign of aging in cats is a change in appetite. Some older cats become finicky eaters and may start to lose weight, while others may overeat and become overweight. If you notice any changes in your cat’s eating habits, make sure to mention it to their vet. - They’re Having Trouble Using the Litter Box
If your normally well-behaved cat starts having accidents outside of their litter box, it could be a sign that they’re having trouble getting in and out of the box or that they’re experiencing pain when using it. This is something you should discuss with your vet as soon as possible. - Their fur isn’t as lustrous as it used to be
One of the first signs many people notice when their cat begins to age is that their fur doesn’t seem as lustrous as it used to be. This can happen for a number of reasons, including poor nutrition, dehydration, hormonal imbalances, and certain health conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease. If you notice a change in your cat’s fur, make sure to schedule an appointment with their vet. - They’re not as playful as they used to be
It’s normal for cats to slow down a bit as they age and become less active and playful. However, if you notice that your cat has stopped playing altogether or seems unusually sluggish, it could be a sign of an underlying health condition and you should take them to the vet right away. - They’re losing muscle mass
As cats age, they often begin to lose muscle mass due to a decreased ability to absorb protein and nutrients from food as efficiently as they once could. This can lead to weakness and mobility problems. If you notice your cat struggling to jump up on furniture or having difficulty using the stairs, make an appointment with their vet right away - They’ve developed lumps or bumps
If you feel like your normally smooth-bodied kitty has developed some lumps or bumps recently, it’s important to have them checked out by a vet as soon as possible - They’re drinking more water than usual
Another common sign of aging in cats is increased thirst . If your cat is drinking more water than usual—or urinating more frequently—it could be a sign of kidney disease , diabetes , or another health condition - They’ve started meowing more or making strange noises
One strange but common sign that your cat is getting older is if they start meowing more often or making other unusual vocalizations . If this happens , it’s important not take them to the vet right away - You just have a feeling
Something about your cat just seems… different . Maybe they don’t seem quite themselves or you just have a feeling that something isn’t right . If this happens , trust your gut instinct and take them into the vet for a checkup.
You can keep your aging cat healthy
Just like humans , our feline friends experience many changes as they age . Some of these changes are simply due to the aging process while others can point to underlying health conditions . It’s important to keep an eye out for any changes in your cat’s behavior or appearance so that you can address any issues early on . With proper care , your senior kitty can enjoy many happy, healthy years ahead. Thanks for reading!