Golden Oldie

Golden Oldie

Golden Oldie2026-02-11T16:48:04+11:00

Health checks and preventative care

Health checks and preventative care

Proactive check-ups and routine care are key to keeping your old friend thriving for longer.

Check your cat for arthritis signs

Is your cat showing subtle stiffness or slowing down? Use our quick arthritis assessment tool to spot early signs, then book a vet review for tailored care.

Check your cat for arthritis signs

Is your cat showing subtle stiffness or slowing down? Use our quick arthritis assessment tool to spot early signs, then book a vet review for tailored care.

Understanding age-related health conditions

Understanding age-related health conditions

Some medical conditions become more common as your cat ages. Learn how to spot symptoms early and how to treat them.

Fact or fiction: myth busting cancer in pets

Fact or fiction: myth busting cancer in pets

Is a lump or bump on a senior pet definitely cancer? Dr David explains the truth about signs of cancer in senior pets.

Pet age calculator

Curious to know how old your cat really is in human years? Answer a few quick questions to discover their true age and life stage.

Pet age calculator

Curious to know how old your cat really is in human years? Answer a few quick questions to discover their true age and life stage.

Navigating end of life for your pet

Understanding quality-of-life signs, care options and how to say goodbye with dignity can bring peace and comfort to both you and your furry mate.

Navigating end of life for your pet

Understanding quality-of-life signs, care options and how to say goodbye with dignity can bring peace and comfort to both you and your furry mate.

Personalised advice.Straight to your inbox.

FAQs

Your top golden oldie cat questions, answered by the experts.

What age are cats considered golden oldies?2026-01-28T16:58:34+11:00

Cats typically start moving into their golden years around 13 years of age. If you’re not sure what stage of life your cat is in, check out our Pet Age Calculator.

Can cats get grey hair?2026-01-24T00:28:53+11:00

Yes, just like people, cats can develop grey or white hairs as they age. It’s most noticeable around the face, especially the muzzle and eyebrows. Grey hairs are usually a normal sign of ageing, but if your cat’s coat looks dull, patchy or unkempt, it may signal an underlying health issue such as arthritis (making grooming harder), dental pain, or illness. If you notice sudden coat changes, it’s worth chatting to your vet.  

How often should senior cats see the vet?2026-01-28T16:58:58+11:00

As cats enter their senior and “golden oldie” years, they benefit from more regular check-ups. Our vets recommend six-monthly vet visits so age-related conditions like kidney disease, dental problems, arthritis and hyperthyroidism can be picked up early. These visits include a total nose-to-tail check-up, weight monitoring, blood and urine screening tests and dental and joint assessments to catch any changes before they become more serious. Our Wellness Plan covers the very best routine care like vaccinations, check-ups and preventative screenings for one low monthly fee, so you’ve got total peace of mind that you’re giving your cat the best chance of a long and healthy life.  

Why is my older cat drinking more water?2026-01-24T00:28:53+11:00

Increased thirst in senior cats is common, but it can also be an important health clue. Drinking more than usual may point to conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, or hyperthyroidism, which are more common in older cats. These conditions are easier to manage when detected early, so if you’ve noticed your cat visiting the water bowl frequently or producing more urine, book a vet check. Your vet may recommend blood and urine tests to get to the bottom of the change.  

Do senior cats still groom themselves?2026-01-24T00:28:53+11:00

Many older cats continue to groom themselves, but the quality of their grooming often decreases with age. Stiff or painful joints from arthritis can make it harder for them to twist and reach all areas of their body. Dental pain, obesity and reduced flexibility can also affect grooming habits. You might notice knotting, dandruff, a dull coat, or a greasy lower back. Gentle brushing, regular grooming and a vet check to rule out pain or medical issues can help make sure your senior cat stays comfortable and well-kept.

What age are cats considered golden oldies?2026-01-28T16:58:34+11:00

Cats typically start moving into their golden years around 13 years of age. If you’re not sure what stage of life your cat is in, check out our Pet Age Calculator.

Can cats get grey hair?2026-01-24T00:28:53+11:00

Yes, just like people, cats can develop grey or white hairs as they age. It’s most noticeable around the face, especially the muzzle and eyebrows. Grey hairs are usually a normal sign of ageing, but if your cat’s coat looks dull, patchy or unkempt, it may signal an underlying health issue such as arthritis (making grooming harder), dental pain, or illness. If you notice sudden coat changes, it’s worth chatting to your vet.  

How often should senior cats see the vet?2026-01-28T16:58:58+11:00

As cats enter their senior and “golden oldie” years, they benefit from more regular check-ups. Our vets recommend six-monthly vet visits so age-related conditions like kidney disease, dental problems, arthritis and hyperthyroidism can be picked up early. These visits include a total nose-to-tail check-up, weight monitoring, blood and urine screening tests and dental and joint assessments to catch any changes before they become more serious. Our Wellness Plan covers the very best routine care like vaccinations, check-ups and preventative screenings for one low monthly fee, so you’ve got total peace of mind that you’re giving your cat the best chance of a long and healthy life.  

Why is my older cat drinking more water?2026-01-24T00:28:53+11:00

Increased thirst in senior cats is common, but it can also be an important health clue. Drinking more than usual may point to conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, or hyperthyroidism, which are more common in older cats. These conditions are easier to manage when detected early, so if you’ve noticed your cat visiting the water bowl frequently or producing more urine, book a vet check. Your vet may recommend blood and urine tests to get to the bottom of the change.  

Do senior cats still groom themselves?2026-01-24T00:28:53+11:00

Many older cats continue to groom themselves, but the quality of their grooming often decreases with age. Stiff or painful joints from arthritis can make it harder for them to twist and reach all areas of their body. Dental pain, obesity and reduced flexibility can also affect grooming habits. You might notice knotting, dandruff, a dull coat, or a greasy lower back. Gentle brushing, regular grooming and a vet check to rule out pain or medical issues can help make sure your senior cat stays comfortable and well-kept.

Still scratching your head?

Still scratching your head?

Golden oldie cats need a little extra TLC. For answers and expert guidance, chat to your vet.

Cat advice by life stage

Cat advice by life stage

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