Normal Signs Of Your Cat Aging – Senior Cats

Generally, a cat over ten years old is considered a senior cat. Senior cats have special health concerns. As a cat ages, they are likely to experience changes in the body and behavior that are normal for senior cats. A symptom of a disease could be mistaken for a normal sign of aging. If the cat owner is unsure if the cat is experiencing normal signs of advancing age or symptoms of a more serious condition, the veterinarian should be consulted.

Senior cats tend to be less active than they were at a younger age. A gradual increase in activity is normal. A sudden change in activity level could indicate the onset of a disease or condition that needs veterinary intervention. Senior cats can lose some muscle tone. If the cat has trouble standing or walking, it could be a symptom of a condition that requires veterinary treatment.

A cat’s eyes can experience normal changes as they age. The eyes of cats can become somewhat cloudy as they age. This is normal. A bluish or cloudy appearance is called lenticular sclerosis. If a cat’s eyes appear white or opaque, the discoloration could be a sign of cataracts. Cataracts are not a normal aging process and should be checked by a veterinarian.

A thinning of the iris is also considered a normal change due to aging. The iris of the eyes of senior cats, especially light-colored eyes, can appear to have light spots or “moth-eaten.” This is called iris atrophy. If the cat develops increased pigmentation of the eyes, this could be a sign of a more serious condition called malignant iris melanoma. Lenticular sclerosis and iris atrophy should not affect the cat’s vision. If the owner suspects that the cat’s vision is becoming impaired, the veterinarian should be notified.

Like humans, senior cats can develop hearing loss. The hearing loss is often unnoticeable and does not impair the cat’s activity. If any hearing loss is detected, the veterinarian should be consulted to rule out abnormal causes for the hearing loss. Parasites, infections, and abnormal growths are potential causes for hearing loss other than the normal aging process.