How Often Should I Take My Senior Cat to the Vet?

As our cats grow older, their health needs begin to change, sometimes very slowly while other times too quickly. While kittens and adult cats may only need annual wellness vet visits, senior cats benefit from more frequent checkups.  Regular vet visits can play a key role in catching age-related illnesses early, managing chronic conditions, and helping your cat age gracefully and as comfortably as possible.

When Is a Cat Considered a Senior?

Before diving into how often you should visit the vet, it’s important to understand when your cat becomes a senior. Most veterinarians classify cats as a senior starting around 10 years of age, though some larger breeds may begin showing signs of aging a bit earlier. By the time your cat reaches 15, they are considered elderly (I hate the term geriatric!)

However, cats can live well into their late teens or even early twenties, but those golden years often require a more hands-on approach to home and veterinary care.

Recommended Vet Visit Schedule for Senior Cats

Veterinarians generally recommend that healthy senior cats should visit the vet at least twice a year or every six months. These semi-annual checkups allow your vet to monitor any age-related changes more closely than annual visits would. Many age-related conditions, such as kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, high blood pressure, or diabetes, can develop gradually and may go unnoticed by even the most attentive pet parent.

Further, these more frequent visits allow your vet to run wellness blood panels, perform urine tests, check weight and dental health, and monitor any subtle changes in behavior, appetite, or activity. Early detection often makes a huge difference in treatment outcomes, especially with common health problems in senior cats.

What Happens During a Senior Cat Wellness Visit?

During a senior cat wellness exam, your veterinarian will likely conduct a thorough physical examination and ask you questions about your cat’s habits at home.

You can expect:

• Bloodwork to check for organ function, thyroid levels, and potential anemia.

• Urinalysis to monitor kidney function and detect early urinary issues – (annually most likely)

• Weight checks to catch unintentional weight loss or gain, both of which can signal a problem.

• Dental examination to identify gum disease, tooth decay, or oral pain.

• Blood pressure testing as hypertension is common in older cats and can lead to blindness or kidney issues.

• Discussion of behavior changes like increased vocalization, disorientation, or litter box accidents that could suggest cognitive decline or medical concerns.

If your senior cat already has a chronic illness, your vet may recommend even more frequent monitoring such as every 3–4 months in some cases.

Why Routine Vet Visits Are Important for Aging Cats

Senior cats are masters at hiding pain and discomfort. What might seem like “normal slowing down” could actually be arthritis, or subtle changes in thirst and appetite could be early signs of kidney disease. Without regular veterinary care, these warning signs can be missed until the condition has significantly progressed.

Routine vet visits help catch and manage issues before they become advanced or life-threatening. For example, if your cat is developing hyperthyroidism, regular bloodwork will reveal it early enough to explore a range of treatment options. Likewise, dental disease in older cats can lead to infections that affect the heart and kidneys, and routine cleanings and exams can help prevent that.

Signs Your Senior Cat May Need an Extra Vet Visit

Even outside of your regular schedule, pay close attention to any unusual changes in your senior cat’s behavior.

You should schedule an immediate vet visit if your cat shows any of the following:

• Sudden weight loss or gain

• Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours

• Increased thirst or urination

• Lethargy or decreased appetite

• Disorientation or signs of confusion

• Difficulty jumping, climbing stairs, or using the litter box

• Bad breath or drooling

• Matted fur or poor grooming habits

These symptoms could indicate serious underlying health issues that need quick medical attention.

Making Vet Visits Less Stressful for Older Cats

Senior cats can be more sensitive to change and travel. To reduce stress, use a comfortable, familiar carrier lined with a blanket or towel with your scent from home. Cover the carrier during your vet visit to limit the stimulation and talk to your vet about pheromone sprays or mild sedatives if your cat becomes highly anxious during visits.

Choosing a feline-friendly or fear-free certified vet clinic can also make a huge difference in how your older cat handles these necessary checkups.

Final Thoughts: A Proactive Approach to Senior Cat Health

It’s important as our cats age to be proactive with semi-annual vet visits to allow you to provide the best possible quality of life for your aging cat. Just as we need more attentive care as we age, so do our feline companions. With early detection and proper management, senior cats can remain happy, healthy, and comfortable well into their golden years.