how do cats age

Cats age through distinct life stages with corresponding health and behavior changes. Their aging can be divided into kitten (under 1 year), young adult (1-5 years), mature adult (6-10 years), and senior (over 10 years) stages. A cat’s first year is roughly equivalent to 15 human years, the second year adds about 9 human years, and each year thereafter adds about 4 human years. For example, a 5-year-old cat is about 36 in human years, a 10-year-old cat about 60, and a 15-year-old cat about 83 in human years. As cats age, they show physical signs like dental wear and tartar buildup, changes in coat texture and grooming habits, cloudiness in their eyes, decreased muscle mass, less elastic skin, and stiffer joints. Older cats may have arthritis, dental disease, and other health issues. Indoor cats tend to live longer than outdoor cats due to fewer risks and better care. Genetic and environmental factors also influence individual cat aging. Veterinarians estimate a cat’s age by examining teeth development and wear, coat quality, muscle condition, and eye health. Knowing a cat’s age helps with providing age-appropriate care, including regular vet visits, dental care, and preventative measures for senior cats. In summary, cats age rapidly in their first two years and then age about four human years per calendar year, showing typical signs of aging in teeth, coat, muscle, and eyes as they progress through life stages. Cats generally live 13 to 20 years, with some reaching their 20s or beyond with proper care.