The average age a cat can live to is 16. Generally, when a cat is older than 7, it is considered a senior. Cats can often live to be 20 years or older, but they need special care to reach such an advanced age and still have a good quality of life.
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Arthritis
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Older cats can get inflammation of the joints and stiffness just like people can. Degenerative joint disease (arthritis) is seen when an older cat can't get up so quickly and walks or uses the litter pan with a great degree of difficulty. They may suddenly stop jumping up on their favorite perches or be reluctant to play. The symptoms often worsen when the weather is colder. Arthritic cats need a warm bed, a low-fat diet and veterinary attention. This does not go away by itself, but gets worse over time.
Diet
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Senior cats will not be as active as younger cats, and so they do not need as many calories or as much fat and protein. They need a highly digestible, low-fat and low-calorie diet. Otherwise, they may gain too much weight and be prone to illness and an early death. If the teeth are damaged or degenerating, then only wet food can be used. If there are any sudden changes in diet or weight, or if the cat eats with the head tilted because of a sore tooth, then it needs prompt veterinary attention.
Dementia
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Sometimes older cats can get dementia or a cognitive disability. They do not seem to know what time of the day it is. They may ask for dinner 10 minutes after getting fed. They may also suddenly not seem to recognize anybody. They may wander around the house incessantly as if looking for something. They may stop grooming themselves. They may also meow or scream for no apparent reason. This also needs the attention of the vet.
Lumps and Bumps
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Older cat bodies can often become home to strange growths. These will feel like lumps or bumps under or on top of the skin and can appear all over the body. Any growth that suddenly grows in size needs prompt medical attention. This could be cancer and, if caught early enough, can be treatable. Any lump that the cat rips open or keeps licking at should also be brought to the attention of the vet.
Incontinence
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Because of arthritis, dementia, injury or from kidney problems, senior cats may suddenly urinate or defecate outside of their litter boxes. But sometimes this sudden bout of incontinence could be due to hormone changes or other easily treatable problems. If a senior cat suddenly stops using the litter box after years of not having any accidents, then it's time to go to the vet.
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