Senior cats should ideally get routine twice-yearly veterinary exams. Small changes in behavior can be normal, however there are certain symptoms that should concern you.

If you notice any of the symptoms detailed in this article you should report them to your veterinarian as soon as possible. Any one or more of the following symptoms could be caused by a range of minor or major illnesses.

Remember, it’s not your job to diagnose the disorder. It’s your job to observe your cat, evaluate all of his bodily functions and report his symptoms to your veterinarian as soon as possible.

If your cat is having severe symptoms such as struggling to breathe or loses consciousness, take him to your veterinarian immediately.

Your Senior Cat Needs to See a Vet When He . . .

Drinks water or urinates more often than usual

Loses weight

Is unusually hungry

Vomits repeatedly

Has diarrhea lasting for more than 3 days

Finds it difficult to pass stool or urine

Forgets his litter box habits

Exhibits lameness for more than five days or in more than one leg

Has trouble seeing

Develops open sores on the skin that persist for more than one week

Develops a foul mouth odor or drools excessively

Appears to gain weight only in his abdomen

Spends more time than usual sleeping or gazing into space

Loses hair or scratches, especially if only in specific areas

Is unable to eat dry food

Collapses suddenly or has a bout of weakness

Has a seizure (convulsion)

Coughs or gags often

Has bleeding from the mouth, nose or rectum

Has a significant decrease in appetite or doesn’t eat for more than 2 days