Just as in humans, as your cat ages, so does the likelihood of an age-related disease rearing its ugly head. Cats are considered seniors at 10 years of age. Weakened immune systems, kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, thinner skin, brittle nails, and arthritis are among the changes and diseases that can be seen in senior cats.
Never assume that changes you see in an older cat are benign, as it is always best to catch diseases early.
Contact your veterinarian about your cat if you see any of these symptoms or signs of possible illness:
- Diarrhea that lasts more than two days
- Increased thirst and/or urination
- Vomiting that lasts for more than one day
- Increased respiratory rate/effort
- Blood in urine or stool
- Changes in activity level
- Hiding in unusual places
- Appetite changes
- Unkempt appearance
- Unsteady gait
- Weakness/collapse
- Weight loss
- Greenish/yellowish discharge from the nose or the eyes
- Inability to urinate or painful urination (straining)
