Stages of a Cat’s Life – Best Health & Wellness for Your Cat

Your pet cat will go through many stages in life. Each stage of a cat’s life looks different and has different health and care requirements as your cat ages. A kitten, for example, has very different needs than a senior cat. Our professional veterinary tips will help you prepare for each stage of your cat’s life before it arrives. The stages of a cat’s life are all opportunities for bonding and ensuring a long, healthy life for your beloved kitty.

Stage 1: Kittenhood

Cats in the kitten stage are those younger than a year of age and will be full of vibrant, youthful energy. They will likely get into everything they can, even after they begin to age and look more like an adult cat. Playtime and naptime will be the two modes of kittenhood unless they’re eating or using the litterbox. Take time to play and bond with your new kitten. Keep the litterbox tidy, and provide plenty of toys. Doing so will show your cat that you’re their caretaker and help build trust between the two of you. 

Regular veterinary visits should begin during the kitten stage. We recommend several veterinary visits during your new kitten’s first year of life, as they receive all of their vaccinations, exams, and are spayed or neutered. This period is also essential for pinpointing any pain or health issues your cat might be experiencing. Early detection is key for preventing disease, illness, and pain in pets. The first year of your pet’s life is also the best time to get them used to grooming practices, nail trims, and tooth brushing, which will contribute to health and longevity. 

Stage 2: Cat Adolescence & Young Adulthood

During their young adult or adolescent years (from ages 1-6), your cat will continue to have lots of energy and love to play. It’s important to have plenty of toys, cat scratching posts and treats around. Keep your cat active by playing games using a laser pointer and other cat toys they love. Continue with annual veterinary visits and preventative care, and be sure to bring them in for an extra visit if you notice any unusual behaviors or physical ailments. Cats hide physical issues really well–so please don’t hesitate to call us if you’re curious about your cat’s behavior. This is one of the “easiest” stages of a cat’s life, and keeping a close connection with your pet at all times should be at the top of your list.

Stage 3: The Mature Adult Cat Stage 

While still active, adult cats over the age of 6 may start to slow down and mellow out a bit. Adult cats will continue to love to play and learn new tricks–such as how to retrieve items, chase, and more. Interactive playtime also helps keep their weight under control for optimum health. 

According to AAHA, this age group is often overlooked when it comes to regular veterinary care. Be sure to get your cat to the vet for a head-to-tail wellness exam at least once per year. Continue to keep a close eye on your kitty cat for unusual behaviors, and bring them in for annual exams and screenings to make sure they’re as healthy as possible.

Stage 4: Senior Cat Health

Senior cats need lots of love and attention as they age. Health recommendations shift again for senior cats, including diet & nutritional needs, exercise, and the frequency of veterinary visits.  You may notice your cat slowing down due to arthritis, which we can help ease with supplements and medications. Placement of their toys, litterbox, and bed may have to be adjusted if reaching the location of these items proves more difficult for your cat than it used to be. You may also need to swap out the old litterbox with a new one with lower sides that’s more easily accessible. 

Routine vet visits are imperative during your cat’s senior stage in life, as they help us find and address health issues early via screenings and tests. Many symptoms are treatable and not just signs of “old age.” Preventative care and screenings allow us to treat any issues your beloved cat may be hiding before they’ve gone too far or are untreatable. Your cat’s frequency of litterbox use may also shift as their organs age, particularly the kidneys. Dental care will continue to be important in relation to preventing issues in your cat’s organs and tissues–please bring your cat in at the first sign of bad breath. Bad breath is not part of aging, it is a sign of dental disease. We can address pet dental issues at any stage of your cat’s life, whether a senior or a youngster. 

Cat Health at Bayside Animal Hospital

Each stage of a cat’s life is important in its own way, as your furry friend matures into a truly connected friend in your everyday life. Here at Bayside Animal Hospital in the Galveston Bay area, it’s our mission to help you prevent pet illness and pet health problems, and to keep your fur baby around as long as possible. We know what it’s like to be a pet parent, moving through each stage alongside your pet as their best friend and provider of love and care. No matter which stage of life your cat is in, we’re here to help you make the best health decisions and guide you with caring hearts, educated minds, and the best the veterinary field has to offer. Don’t hesitate to contact us when you need us–during all of the stages of a cat’s life.