Your cat lies relaxed by your side. You look at her and think to yourself: She's getting older too. If you're well prepared, you can help her experience this phase of her life in good health and comfort.

When is a cat considered a senior cat?

Aging is a natural process. The body changes slowly. The metabolic rate decreases. The immune system weakens.

Many say: A cat is old from the age of 7.
Veterinary guidelines state: Senior age begins at 10 years.

Cats live longer today than in the past. This is due to better veterinary medicine, high-quality food, and loving care.
Previously, the life expectancy of cats was 12–14 years. Today, many cats live to be 16 or older. The oldest known cat lived to be 38 years old.

Overview of the cat's life stages

This classification is flexible. What's important is how your cat behaves , not just its age in numbers.

How your cat changes with age

Behavior & Emotions

• Older cats are more sensitive to stress.

• Changes such as moving house or having new roommates are more difficult for them to cope with.

• Some become more affectionate, others withdraw.

• This can lead to uncleanliness or changes in eating habits.

• In multi-cat households, their social position can change.

Senses & Perception

• Hearing ability often deteriorates.

• The sense of smell and taste also weaken.

• Some cats have difficulty recognizing food or eat less.

• The eyes show age-related changes, e.g.:

  • Lens opacity (nuclear sclerosis)

  • Retinal changes (usually without vision loss)

  • Iris atrophy – pupils react more slowly to light

Tip: Even if your senior cat slows down, she can still enjoy small stimuli. A sunny spot or a familiar toy can mean a lot.

Physical changes in older cats

Skin, fur and muscles

• The skin becomes drier and less elastic.

• Increased dandruff formation may occur.

• Wounds heal more slowly.

• The cat loses muscle mass over time.

Observe whether she loses weight even though she is eating normally.

Joints & Movement

• Many older cats show signs of arthritis .

• They jump less, avoid high furniture, or scratch less.

• Stairs or climbing elements are avoided.

• Some people groom themselves less often – especially on their back or belly.

Also read: [Overweight cat: How to keep it fit!] Exercise is important in old age, but it should be adapted.

Digestion & Water Balance

• The risk of dehydration increases.
  Old cats often drink too little.
  ➝ Possible signs: sagging skin, dull eyes, loss of appetite.

• The intestinal flora changes.
  Digestion may become sluggish.
  Sometimes constipation or diarrhea occurs.

Changes in sleep patterns

• Older cats often sleep longer, but more restlessly.

• Some are active at night or suddenly meow.

• Possible causes include dementia, pain, or urinary urgency.

• Hearing and vision also influence the sleep-wake cycle.

Tip: Be patient. Soft light or a quiet radio can help at night.

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Nutrition for older cats: How to feed them correctly

Good food is especially important in old age.
The body changes. So do the nutritional needs.
A proper diet can prevent age-related diseases and improve well-being.

What is the goal when feeding older cats?

• Maintain health

• Protect muscles

• Strengthen the immune system

• Relieving age-related ailments

• Extend life expectancy

1. Energy demand – not always less

Many people think that older cats need less energy.
That's not always true.

• Cats between 7 and 11 years old often need slightly less.

• Energy demand can increase again from the age of 12.
  Reason: Muscle loss or impaired nutrient absorption.

Monitor your weight and activity regularly.
Is the cat losing weight? Is she eating well? Is she remaining active?

Tip: If you are unsure, your veterinarian can estimate your pet's energy needs.

2. Proteins – the older, the more important

High-quality protein is vital for cats.
Even – or especially – in old age.

• It protects against muscle loss.

• It supports the immune system.

• It provides essential amino acids such as taurine .

It used to be thought that less protein was better for the kidneys.
Today we know: Good proteins do not burden , but help .

Also read: [Taurine for cats: Essential amino acids at a glance]

3. Fats – Energy and Taste

Fat is a source of energy and a flavor carrier.
However, fat digestion decreases with age.

• Too much fat can be hard on the stomach.

• Too little fat makes the food unattractive.

Finding the right balance is important – depending on digestion and weight.

4. Calcium and phosphorus – especially important for kidney problems

These minerals are important for:

• Bone

• muscles

• Nerve pathways

Pay attention to maintaining a good ratio:
Calcium : Phosphorus ratio = 1:1 to 2:1

In cases of chronic kidney disease:
Phosphorus should be reduced.
This can slow down the progression of the disease.

Also read: [Sugar in cat food: How harmful is it for cats?] – especially important for older cats!

5. Omega-3 fatty acids & antioxidants

Omega-3 (EPA & DHA) has many benefits:

• Anti-inflammatory

• Good for skin and coat

• Supports heart, kidneys and joints

Good sources:

• Fish (e.g. salmon, mackerel)

• Pure fish oil (without additives, low in pollutants)

Antioxidants such as vitamin E, C or beta-carotene:

• Protect against cell damage

• They slow down the aging process

• Especially important in kidney diseases

What does an older cat need in everyday life?

Besides good food, your senior cat also needs small adjustments at home.
That's how she feels comfortable – even in old age.

Tips for everyday life with a senior cat

• Create quiet retreats
  Older cats need more rest.
• Avoid stress
  No sudden changes, noisy guests, or new animals.
• Easy access to food, water, and toilet
  No climbing or jumping required.
• Soft, warm berths
  Especially important for osteoarthritis.
• Offer stairs or ramps
  When she can no longer jump.
• Regular grooming
  Many older cats groom themselves less.
• Daily observation
  Is she eating well? Is she moving normally?
  → Recognize early signs!
• Gentle activity
  Games with slower movements, scented toys, or licking mats.

When to go to the vet?

Older cats should be checked at least twice a year .
This allows diseases to be detected early.

• Get it checked regularly:
• Teeth
• Weight
• Kidney and liver function
• blood pressure
• Urine test
• Behavior & Mobility

Kidney weakness is particularly common in older cats – the earlier it is detected, the better it can be treated.

Conclusion: Your old cat needs you – more than ever.

Aging is not a flaw – but a natural part of life.
Your cat now needs more rest, more observation, and appropriate care.

With the right food, a safe home and lots of love, your senior cat can spend many more happy years with you.

Because she is not simply old – she is experienced, wise, and full of trust in you.