When Is a Cat Considered a Senior? Signs of Aging & How to Help

When Is a Cat Considered a Senior? 

Cats are typically considered a “senior” after age 11. However, various physical and environmental factors—along with each cat’s individual experience—can affect the aging process, according to American Association of Feline Practitioners. 

What Is a Cat’s Life Expectancy? 

Depending on their breed, a domestic cat’s life expectancy typically ranges from 13 to 20 years. One study found that Burmese cats have the longest average lifespan of over 14 years, followed by Ragdolls, Siamese, and Persians—all of which have long life expectancies for purebreds. 

A cat’s lifespan can generally be categorized into five stages: 

Kitten: Birth – 6 months 

Junior: 7 months – 2 years  

Adult: 3 – 6 years 

Mature: 7 – 10 years 

Senior: 11+ years 


Unlike with senior dogs, a feline’s lifespan doesn’t seem to correlate with their body size. 

🐾 Related: 8 Small Cat Breeds That Stay Little

How to Determine Your Cat’s Age 

Knowing your cat’s age can help you give them the best possible care. If you are unsure of a rescue's age, a veterinarian can examine their teeth, eyes, and coat for an overall estimate. Cats stop growing around 18 months old, but a vet can also X-ray your kitty’s joints and bones to check for signs of continued or completed growth. 

Signs Your Cat Is Becoming a Senior 

As senior cats age, their physical and cognitive abilities will naturally start to change. Common physical symptoms older cats experience include: 

• Weight loss 
• Decreased mobility 
• Changes in appetite 
• Incontinence  
• Dental disease 
• Difficulty grooming themselves 
• Hearing or vision loss 

Senior cats might also experience behavioral changes, like: 

• Peeing outside the litter box 
• Increased irritability or aggression 
• Vocalizing excessively   
• Seeming disoriented or confused  
• Becoming more skittish 

How to Care for Your Senior Cat 

Older felines can still feel great in their golden years! It’s best to monitor your cat’s physical changes and speak to your vet about their health. You can also consider incorporating these simple tips into their routine at home. 

Reduce Stressors in the Environment: Try to avoid major changes in your senior cat's routine or situations that might cause anxiety, like bringing new pets into the family or moving to a new home. 

Keep Up with a Cat Grooming Routine: It is important to continue to take care of your feline’s coat as they get older! Since some seniors might struggle to clean themselves, gently brush their coat with a cat grooming mitt regularly. 

Create Easily Accessible Spaces: Move your cat’s food, water, and bed to ground level. Consider adding ramps or steps to places like the couch or bed so they don't have to jump. 

Help Them Get Exercise: A senior cat’s age shouldn’t stop them from staying active! Light playtime each day is a great way to keep their body moving and get extra bonding time together. If their energy is low, simply encourage your feline to walk short distances in-between naps. 

Consider Placing Multiple Litter Boxes: If your cat has issues with incontinence as they get older, placing a second litter box in another area of your home could help reduce accidents. You can also place Wee-Wee® Pads in spots around the box in case they miss. 

Make Dietary Changes: Provide your cat with nutritious food and consider adding health & wellness products, such as a multi-vitamin to their routine. You can also place multiple bowls of water throughout the home to encourage hydration. 

Aging Like a Fine Feline! 

Knowing when a cat is considered a senior can help you prepare for the next stage in their life. By adapting to your feline's evolving needs, you can ensure their comfort and happiness throughout the later years. Enjoy those extra-special moments together and be sure to provide them with all the love (and cuddles!) they deserve.  

Curious about other natural feline experiences? Check out our cats in heat article to learn more!