By and large, says the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), cats are geriatric at age7. Although there’s no simple way to compare a pet’s aging to human aging, the AVMA did come up with a guide.
The best way to ensure your cat lives a long, healthy life? Consider twice-yearly wellness exams once your cat turns 7, instead of the usual annual checkup. “A year is a large percentage of a cat’s lifespan,” says Brian Collins, DVM, Cornell Veterinary School Lecturer, Chief, Section of Community Practice Service. “Earlier detection of disease and early intervention can result in a better prognosis and longer lifespan for an agingpet.”