Cats in different life stages have different care requirements. Cats under 7 years old that are otherwise healthy will require yearly wellness exams. Their vaccination and deworming needs will depend on their lifestyle and risk factors, which you will discuss with your veterinarian at each yearly exam.
Cats between 7 and 10 years old are considered “mature cats”, and it is a good idea to have them examined every 6 months with bloodwork performed at least yearly. Cats over 10 years are considered “senior” and should have examinations and bloodwork performed every 6 months.
As cat’s lifespans are shorter than human’s, they age more quickly and changes in health can also develop quickly. If you notice changes such as:
- reduced exercise
- being less playful or less social
- grooming less frequently
- a change in appetite
- a change in litterbox habits
- increased frequency of vomiting
- weight or muscle loss
- decreased fur quality, greasiness, or matting
This means your cat should be assessed.
Cats are masters at hiding illness. They might not start to show outward signs of disease until underlying disease has progressed to a point at which their bodies can no longer compensate. It is important to have them examined even if they seem like healthy older cats, and certainly if any changes are noticed at home.
Examinations of older cats should include a full physical exam, an eye exam, a blood pressure reading, and blood and urine analysis. This will help identify common diseases of older cats, such as high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, and kidney disease, among others.
Early detection of disease means more opportunities to intervene, and this can mean longer and better quality of life for your cat.
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