Caring for an older cat

As cats move into their senior years – usually from around age 11 – their needs begin to change. You may notice a gentler pace, longer naps and a deeper appreciation for familiar routines. 

But with a few thoughtful adjustments, caring for older cats can be a rewarding experience – whether you’re supporting a lifelong companion or thinking about adopting an older cat.

As cats grow older, it’s natural for both their bodies and behaviour to change. Many senior cats become less active, spend more time resting and may choose to stay closer to home rather than venturing outdoors. You might also notice changes in mobility, with jumping and climbing becoming more difficult than before.

Ageing can bring subtler changes as well. Some cats experience a reduced sense of smell or taste, which can affect appetite, while others may have reduced hearing or eyesight. 

The immune system can also become less robust over time, alongside changes in how the body digests fat and protein. Many older cats also have a lower tolerance for stress, making a calm routine and familiar environment especially important.

As mobility changes, thoughtful adjustments around the home can make a real difference. Stairs, in particular, may become more complicated to manage. If your home has more than one level, it’s a good idea to provide essential resources – such as a litter tray, water bowl and feeding area – on each floor. This reduces the need for unnecessary climbing and helps your cat move around more comfortably.

Soft bedding placed in warm, quiet areas can ease stiff joints, while non-slip rugs on smooth flooring help prevent slips and trips. Small steps or low platforms can also support access to favourite spots without the strain of jumping.

As cats age, grooming themselves can become more challenging. Reduced flexibility or joint discomfort may limit their ability to reach certain areas, leading to matting or discomfort.

Regular grooming with a soft brush helps keep their coat in good condition and prevents tangles. It’s essential to groom gently, particularly around joints, the hindquarters and along the spine, where older cats may be thinner and more sensitive. Being mindful of pressure here helps ensure grooming remains a positive experience.

These sessions are also a valuable opportunity to check for any new lumps, bumps or skin changes that may need veterinary advice. As flexibility decreases, some cats may also need help keeping their back end clean. Gently wiping the area with cotton pads moistened with warm (not hot) water can help maintain hygiene and reduce distress.

For long-haired cats, trimming the fur around the back end can help prevent matting and make self-care easier. Taken slowly and calmly, grooming can become a reassuring, bonding moment.

Nutrition plays a central role in caring for an older cat, as dietary needs often change with age. Some senior cats need more calories despite having smaller appetites, while others benefit from diets designed to support joints, kidneys or digestion.

Offering smaller meals more frequently can help maintain energy levels without overwhelming your cat. Trying different textures, such as pâté, minced or flaked food, may also encourage eating if dental sensitivity or a reduced sense of smell becomes an issue. Raised or shallow bowls can make mealtimes more comfortable, and placing water bowls around the home encourages regular hydration.

Choosing appropriate senior cat food and adjusting to an appropriate senior cat diet – with guidance from your vet – can support long-term health while keeping mealtimes enjoyable.

Even when your cat’s pace slows, play remains an integral part of physical and mental wellbeing. Choosing the right toys for older cats allows gentle movement without placing strain on ageing joints.

Slow-moving feather wands encourage light stretching, while soft kicker toys allow your cat to engage their hind legs without high impact. Puzzle feeders offer mental stimulation and a sense of achievement, while window perches provide low-effort entertainment as your cat watches the world outside. Adding a small step or box for access can help avoid unnecessary jumping.

Short play sessions are also an essential part of older cat care – they can help maintain muscle tone, confidence and enjoyment without causing fatigue.

Scratching remains a necessary behaviour throughout a cat’s life, but vertical scratching posts can place strain on ageing joints. Many senior cats find horizontal scratch pads, low-angled boards or even spare carpet squares far more comfortable.

Providing these alternatives allows your cat to stretch and scratch without discomfort, supporting joint health while still meeting natural instincts.

By adopting an older cat, you’re offering comfort and security at a stage when it’s needed most, while also helping rescue organisations care for more cats in need.

Senior cats make brilliant companions. They tend to be settled in their personalities, enjoy gentle routines and are well-suited to quieter households. While they may not scale the curtains like younger cats, many still enjoy playing and can surprise you with their character and charm. While it depends on the cat’s individual personality, older cats are also much more likely to be lap cats compared to energetic kittens.

Organising senior cat insurance ahead of time can provide valuable peace of mind if you decide to adopt. Having cover in place means you can focus on care decisions with confidence, knowing support is available if your cat needs treatment.

If you have insurance in place with Petplan, you can also access our Pet Expert Chat service through your My Petplan account. This allows you to speak with a veterinary professional about diet, mobility, behaviour changes or end-of-life care whenever you need guidance or reassurance.

Caring for a senior cat can be deeply rewarding but also bring emotional challenges. 

When the time comes to say goodbye, support is available through organisations such as The Blue Cross, which offers guidance and care over the phone.