As cats age, their needs change, and so should their veterinary care. Just like people, senior cats are more prone to certain health conditions, making regular check-ups even more important. Senior cat wellness exams give veterinarians the opportunity to detect issues early, provide preventive care, and keep your beloved companion healthy and comfortable in their golden years.
When Is a Cat Considered a Senior?
Most cats are considered seniors around the age of 7–10 years old, though some breeds may age differently. By this stage, changes in metabolism, mobility, and organ function become more common, even if they aren’t immediately visible to owners.
What Happens During a Senior Cat Wellness Exam?
A senior cat exam is more comprehensive than a standard check-up. Your veterinarian will evaluate:
- Physical Examination: Checking eyes, ears, teeth, heart, lungs, skin, and joints for early signs of disease.
- Weight & Nutrition Assessment: Identifying unintentional weight loss or obesity, both of which can signal underlying issues.
- Blood Work & Urinalysis: Screening for diabetes, kidney disease, liver problems, and thyroid conditions.
- Dental Health Evaluation: Dental disease is extremely common in older cats and can affect overall health.
- Mobility & Arthritis Screening: Identifying stiffness or pain that may be managed with treatment.
- Vaccination & Parasite Control: Ensuring your cat stays protected against preventable diseases.
Why Senior Cat Wellness Exams Are So Important
While younger cats often do well with annual check-ups, senior cats benefit from twice-yearly wellness exams. Because health issues can progress quickly in older pets, more frequent monitoring helps ensure timely treatment and care for a variety of reasons:
- Early Disease Detection: Many conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, or hyperthyroidism can develop silently. Exams catch them before they worsen.
- Improved Quality of Life: Addressing pain, mobility issues, or dental problems helps senior cats stay active and comfortable.
- Tailored Nutrition Plans: Adjusting diet for weight management, organ health, and overall vitality.
- Longer Lifespan: Preventive care and early intervention often add healthy, happy years to your cat’s life.
- Peace of Mind for Owners: Knowing your cat is being monitored closely reduces stress and uncertainty.
Trust the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill for Senior Feline Care
At The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, we understand the unique needs of aging cats. Our team specializes in feline-only medicine, which means we tailor every senior cat wellness exam to address age-related concerns. From bloodwork and dental care to arthritis management and nutrition counseling, we provide compassionate, expert care to keep your cat thriving.
If your feline friend is entering their golden years, don’t wait! Schedule a senior cat wellness exam today. Visit our office or call us to book an appointment and ensure your cat enjoys a healthy, happy life well into their senior years.