Care Tips for Elderly & Mature Cats: Essential Considerations

The cat is considered to be mature once they reach the age of seven or eight, and elderly from the age of about ten years old. Once our cats reach maturity, their care needs change somewhat, and they begin a slow and natural decline into old age. Domestic cats today live for much longer than they historically would have done or do in the wild, with cats regularly living into their late teens and sometimes even over twenty. This is due to a combination of increasingly good veterinary care and research into the health and wellness of older cats, and as a result of lifestyle changes that have developed over time due to our modern understanding of cat care, feeding and wellness.

If you own a mature or elderly cat or wish to develop a deeper understanding of how your cat’s care needs will change as they get older, read on to learn more about the care considerations required of mature and elderly cats.

Start Early: Prepare Your Cat for a Healthy Old Age

Helping your cat transition into their senior years with vitality begins long before they reach maturity. By establishing excellent care habits early, you give them the best chance at a happy, comfortable later life.

• Feed a balanced, high-quality diet matched to their life stage and health requirements.
• Maintain dental health via regular checkups and gentle tooth brushing if possible.
• Monitor weight and activity to prevent obesity, a common issue that complicates aging.
• Keep up to date with worming, flea treatments and vaccinations to support a strong immune system.
• Invest in comprehensive pet insurance that covers your cat’s entire lifespan, as many insurers charge significantly more or exclude coverage for mature cats when enrolling later in life.

Special Care Focus for Mature Cats (7–10 Years)

As cats enter their mature phase, their care routine often needs thoughtful adjustments to support their changing needs.

• Switch to a diet specially formulated for mature cats to better manage changing metabolism and nutrient needs.
• Keep vigilant about dental health; if bad breath, plaque or gingivitis appear, consult your vet about professional cleaning.
• Ensure annual veterinary visits include vaccination boosters and thorough health checks to detect early warning signs of developing problems.
• Consider joint supplements or nutritional additives recommended by your vet to maintain mobility and comfort.
• Recognise that mature cats generally reduce activity and sleep more, and adjust feeding quantities accordingly to avoid weight gain.
• Encourage safe play and mental stimulation, as most mature cats retain interest in their favourite activities that nurture wellbeing.
• Review your pet insurance policy annually to confirm it offers the right coverage as some policies adjust terms or premiums for mature cats.

Adapting Care for Elderly Cats (10+ Years)

When your cat reaches about ten years or older, it's important to be aware of increased risks for age-related conditions and adapt their care to ensure comfort and quality of life.

• Joint stiffness and reduced mobility may become apparent. Help your cat navigate stairs or furniture with ramps or steps for ease.
• Watch for signs of arthritis and seek veterinary advice on medications or therapies to alleviate discomfort.
• Monitor water intake closely; increased drinking can be an early sign of renal or other health concerns requiring prompt treatment.
• Older cats struggle more with temperature regulation. Provide warm, draft-free resting places in winter and cool, shaded areas in summer.
• Gradual declines in vision, hearing, smell, and taste are natural. Maintain a stable environment to reduce stress and confusion.
• If your cat seems less inclined to groom, support them with gentle brushing to maintain coat condition and comfort.
• Discuss vitamin or mineral supplements with your vet to support skin and coat health and overall wellbeing.
• Keep vaccinations up to date and respond swiftly to any signs of illness, as immunity weakens with age.
• Observe your elderly cat closely as cats tend to hide discomfort; early identification of issues leads to better outcomes.
• Continue to show affection and maintain usual communication, ensuring your cat feels secure and loved.

Environmental and Lifestyle Adjustments

Making your cat’s surroundings senior-friendly greatly enhances their comfort and happiness as they age.

• Place food, water and litter boxes in accessible locations with minimal obstacles.
• Provide plenty of warm, cosy resting places free from drafts but not overheated.
• Install ramps or steps to help them reach favourite spots safely.
• Encourage gentle play to maintain physical and mental stimulation without overexertion.
• Maintain a consistent daily routine for feeding, play, and rest to reduce stress.

When to Seek Veterinary Advice

Regular veterinary checkups are critical for mature and elderly cats. Early detection of health changes can prevent more serious problems.

• Schedule veterinary exams at least annually; ideally every six months for elderly cats.
• Request full geriatric screening including blood tests and diagnostic imaging as recommended.
• Report any changes in behaviour, appetite, mobility or litter box habits promptly.
• Discuss potential supplements, medication or therapies to enhance quality of life.

Promoting Responsible Pet Ownership

Remember that caring for a mature or elderly cat is a rewarding commitment. Providing tailored care based on their age and health needs allows your furry companion to enjoy their golden years comfortably and happily, reflecting your dedicated and responsible pet ownership.

If you're considering adding a cat to your family, always find a mature cat or kitten from responsible breeders or reputable rescues to ensure a healthy start.

Common Questions on Elderly Cat Care

How often should I take my elderly cat to the vet?

Quick Answer: Elderly cats should ideally visit the vet every six months for checkups and screening.

Regular veterinary visits are important as they help catch health issues early when treatment is most effective. Blood tests, dental checks, and mobility assessments inform appropriate care changes for your senior cat.

What diet is best for mature cats?

Quick Answer: Mature cats benefit from diets formulated with adjusted protein, calories, and joint-support nutrients.

Diets tailored for mature or senior cats help manage weight, support kidney health, and maintain muscle condition. Your vet can recommend the best options according to your cat’s specific needs.