In brief A cat is generally considered senior from around 10 years and super senior from 15. Age is not a disease, and older cats are wonderful companions. Pain, muscle loss, reduced vision or hearing, and disease may nevertheless make everyday tasks harder. Small adaptations can support independence. A new limitation still warrants veterinary assessment. […]
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In brief A cat in pain does not have to vocalise. Small changes often appear first: jumping less high, hesitating on stairs, sleeping differently, grooming less, adopting a different posture or reducing social contact. One sign does not prove pain, but a new or progressive change deserves attention. Record short videos when possible and discuss […]
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In brief A healthy weight is not one fixed number for every cat of a particular breed. Assess three different things: scale weight, body fat and muscle mass. A cat may lose muscle without becoming much lighter, or remain overweight while muscles over the back decline. Follow trends. Unintended weight loss — particularly in an […]
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In brief Even a cat who appears healthy at home benefits from regular veterinary assessment. International feline guidelines recommend a complete health examination at least annually, increasing to at least every six months for senior cats from around ten years of age. This is a starting point, not an identical schedule for every cat. Age, […]
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In brief A kitten is not automatically the best choice, and an adult or older cat is not second best. The right match depends on time, energy, need for predictability, living space, other animals, children and financial resources. An adult cat’s personality is often easier to describe, while a kitten generally needs more guidance. Use […]
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In brief Do not choose a kitten with your heart alone — difficult though that is when faced with a tiny feline face. Look at origin, the mother cat, living environment, socialisation and available health information. Ask questions, request documentation and never allow yourself to be rushed. A kitten may look healthy while not every […]
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Coughing is not normal in cats and is rarely caused by a hairball. Asthma and chronic bronchitis are common possibilities, but lungworm, infection and other causes must also be considered.
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Anaemia means there are too few circulating red blood cells or too little haemoglobin. It is not a diagnosis by itself: blood loss, red-cell destruction and inadequate production require very different treatment.
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Arthritis is common in older cats, but they rarely limp dramatically. Reduced jumping, stiffness, poor grooming and changed behaviour may all be signs of chronic pain.
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Increased thirst, larger urine clumps, weight loss, nausea and reduced appetite can be early signs of chronic kidney disease. Blood tests alone do not provide the whole picture.
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