With proper care, it’s not unusual for an indoor cat to live 16 years or more. Many veterinarians consider a cat between 9-10 years old to be a “senior”. A cat is considered to be “geriatric” after age 12.
As cats become older, they are more likely to develop diseases that require medical attention. Many of the negative behavior changes we see in older cats can be the result of medical conditions. Some of the more common disorders affecting older cats include heart disease, kidney disease, hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland), arthritis, and cancers.
Regular visits to a veterinarian are essential to early diagnosis and establishing treatment to improve quality of life.