Cats are masters at hiding their age. Many still look and act like young cats well into their teens, which makes it easy to miss the gradual changes of getting older. Most cats are considered mature from around 7 years old and senior from about 11. Spotting the signs early means you can adjust their food, home and vet care to keep them comfortable and healthy for years to come.
How old is my cat in human years?
A rough guide: a 7-year-old cat is about the same as a 44-year-old person, an 11-year-old cat is about 60, and a 15-year-old cat is about 76. With good care, many New Zealand cats now live well into their late teens and beyond.
Eight signs your cat is getting older
1. Sleeping more. Older cats sleep longer and play less. That's normal, but a cat that suddenly loses all interest in its surroundings should see the vet.
2. Changes in weight. Middle-aged cats often put on weight, but many cats lose weight as they reach their senior years. Unexplained weight loss is one of the most important signs to act on, as it can point to kidney disease, an overactive thyroid or diabetes.
3. Drinking and weeing more. Bigger clumps in the litter tray or more trips to the water bowl are a classic early sign of kidney disease, which is common in older cats.
4. Less jumping. Arthritis is very common in older cats, but they rarely limp. Instead, watch for a cat that no longer jumps onto the bench or bed, takes the stairs slowly, or hesitates before jumping down.
5. A scruffy or matted coat. Stiff joints make it harder for older cats to reach their back and hips, so their coat may become greasy, matted or flaky. Our guide to cat fur types and care has grooming tips.
6. Changes in eating. Dental disease is very common in senior cats. Dropping food, chewing on one side, bad breath or eating less can all mean sore teeth. A reduced sense of smell can also make older cats fussier.
7. Litter tray accidents. Going outside the tray can mean the tray is too hard to climb into, or it can be a sign of a medical problem. Either way, it's worth a vet visit.
8. Behaviour changes. Some older cats become more clingy, more vocal at night, or seem confused or lost at times. This can be a sign of age-related changes in the brain, similar to dementia in people, as well as hearing or vision loss.
When to see your vet
Once your cat is over 11, a vet check every 6 months is a good idea, including blood and urine tests. Many common conditions in older cats, like kidney disease and an overactive thyroid, are much easier to manage when caught early. See your vet sooner if you notice weight loss, increased thirst, a change in appetite, or anything that worries you.
Feeding your senior cat
Older cats have different nutritional needs. A good senior food supports kidney health, contains high-quality protein to help maintain muscle, includes antioxidants, and is easy to digest. Here's what we stock:
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality. Formulated to support energy, brain function and interaction in older cats. For cats over 11, there's also Hill's Adult 11+.
Royal Canin Ageing 11+. An easy-to-eat kibble designed for cats from 11 years old, with nutrients to support healthy ageing.
Royal Canin Indoor 7+ and Outdoor 7+. Matched to your cat's lifestyle, with support for kidney and urinary health.
Black Hawk Adult Cat Chicken. Not a senior-specific food, but it contains green-lipped mussel and glucosamine for joints, making it a good option for mature cats that are still in great shape.
Hill's and Royal Canin are ordered in especially for you, so allow a few extra days. If your vet has diagnosed a condition such as kidney disease, follow their advice on diet, as a prescription food may be needed.
Help your senior cat drink more
Older cats are prone to dehydration, which puts extra strain on their kidneys. Offer water in several spots around the house, try a water fountain, and consider adding some wet food to their diet. Inaba Churu treats are 91% moisture and only six calories each. They're a great way to add extra fluid, and handy for hiding tablets too.
Make home easier for an older cat
- Use a litter tray with a low side so it's easy to step into.
- Add a step or ramp up to favourite spots like the bed or windowsill.
- Provide soft, warm bedding away from draughts, especially over winter.
- Keep food, water and litter on the same floor if your cat struggles with stairs.
- Groom gently and often, especially along the back and hips.
- Keep up monthly flea and worm treatment. Older cats are more affected by parasites.
Not sure which food suits your older cat? Call or pop into our Oxford store and we'll talk it through with you. Switch to a new food gradually over 7 to 10 days, as older cats can be sensitive to change.
Find the right food for your cat
Browse our full range of dry cat food, with delivery across New Zealand and click and collect from Oxford, North Canterbury. Or get in touch and tell us about your cat. We're happy to help you choose.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice. If your cat is unwell, see your vet.