In brief
Cats hide illness remarkably well. From around seven years of age, regular checks become increasingly valuable; senior and geriatric cats often benefit from assessment more than once a year.
Why appearance is not enough
Kidney disease, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, dental disease and osteoarthritis can progress before a cat looks clearly ill. Owners may interpret reduced jumping, sleep or grooming as normal ageing when it reflects treatable disease or pain.
What a useful senior check includes
- A history that asks about appetite, drinking, litter-tray use, mobility, sleep and behaviour.
- Body weight, body condition and muscle condition tracked over time.
- A complete physical and oral examination.
- Blood pressure measurement using a calm, cat-friendly approach.
- Blood and urine testing tailored to age, findings and previous results.
Trends are powerful
A value within the laboratory reference interval can still be important when it has changed substantially for that individual. Repeated weight, creatinine, SDMA, urine concentration and blood pressure measurements provide context that a single snapshot cannot.
How often?
Frequency depends on age and health. Healthy mature cats may be checked annually, while many senior cats benefit from six-monthly review. Cats with established disease need an individual schedule.
Conclusion
Senior screening is not about finding problems for the sake of it. It is about identifying change while the cat still feels well and more options remain.