How Old is Old? Signs of Feline Ageing

Older cats are often very companionable; enjoying attention and relaxing in your company so it can be a rewarding time for you to indulge your nurturing instincts. Ageing cats adapt their lifestyle to cope with any incapacity; slowing down gradually, seeking warm, comfortable spots and spending more time asleep. They sleep more deeply and are harder to rouse, so don't suddenly disturb a sleeping cat or it will be startled, especially if its hearing is fading. This deep slumber also shows that the cat feels safe.

As cats grow older, stiffer and lose muscle tone, high surfaces (windowsills, shelves, kitchen counters, your bed) become inaccessible unless you provide a ramp or box as a stepping stone. Tables and counters may become cat-free zones and ornaments be are less likely to be overturned. The cat's curiosity is unabated, but he no longer exerts himself or his muscles are not up to the jump. Instead of active pursuits he may turn his attention to socializing quietly with you. He may prefer to sit near you rather than on your lap. This is not a snub; depleted fat stores means he is bonier and finds your lap uncomfortable. Put a cushion or folded blanket on your lap to make it more comfortable when he wants a cuddle. If he is allowed in the bedroom, spend an half-hour or more sitting up in bed reading with your legs tucked under the duvet or quilt - he will find that the duvet makes a supportive "hammock" between your legs.

Middle-age spread (through overfeeding and under-exercising) eventually gives way to boniness as subcutaneous (under-skin) fat stores become depleted. The spine, shoulder blades and hips are more prominent; his muzzle appears "sharper" and the eyes more prominent as fat around the face is lost. You may notice changes in how he moves as he becomes stiff and "rheumaticky". He may stand with forelegs wider apart as degenerative changes occur in the joints, giving him a saggy, barrel-chested appearance. This may also help increase his chest capacity and breathing as the heart and lungs work less efficiently. This is nicknamed "clockwork kitty" syndrome as his movements give the impression of a wind-up toy.

What is Ageing?

He may develop a tendency to walk on his hocks due to muscle wastage in the hind-legs. This also restricts running and jumping. Hock-walking is also associated with the after effects of saddle thrombus (see later). He becomes generally less supple and finds it harder to curl up into a tight ball so a larger cat bed may be necessary. Beanbags mould themselves to his shape and provide support while the polystyrene beads in a beanbag will retain heat and help keep him warm.

Fleece-covered cat hammocks are comfortable, but make sure he can get in and out of it easily. Older cats often become talkative, spending less time physically active and more time expressing their opinions. Some are seeking reassurance, but others take a chatty interest in your activities. Not only do they enjoy your company, they tell you how much they enjoy it! Some of the increased vocalization (especially increased volume) is due to deafness - the cat literally can't hear himself speak.

Extremely old cats may become forgetful, suffering "senior moments", staying outdoors in bad weather or wandering and becoming lost. These are signs of senility though the cat may enjoy several more months of reasonable health if senile behavior can be managed. Cats which wander and become lost should be confined indoors for their own safety. If you have an escape-proof garden they can venture out in good weather or they may go out on a harness and lead. A senile cat which house-soils should have a veterinary check-ups to determine whether this us a physical problem or senility. Providing several litter trays around the house may help for a while, but when age-related problems become too acute you must review the cat's quality of life and consider euthanasia.