Document the cat's normal
Track jumping routes, grooming, sleep location, play, social contact, appetite, water intake and litter-box use. Change from that baseline is often more useful than a generic age label.
Make access easier
Litter-box entry, traction, resting height, warmth and placement of food and water can influence a senior cat's daily independence.
Bring the home into the appointment
Videos and a written timeline can help the veterinary team interpret mobility or behavior that is difficult to observe in an unfamiliar clinic.
Professional guidance used
2021 AAFP Feline Senior Care GuidelinesAmerican Association of Feline Practitioners2023 AAHA Senior Care Guidelines for Dogs and CatsAmerican Animal Hospital Association2022 AAHA Pain Management Guidelines for Dogs and CatsAmerican Animal Hospital Association
Educational content only · page version 2026-08-18 · veterinary sign-off not yet recorded.