Is it normal for a 12 year old cat to sleep a lot?
Adolescent cats may have erratic sleep patterns combined with periods of intense playfulness. Adult cats tend to have more set sleeping schedules that average out at about 12 – 20 hours of sleep each day. Senior cats will tend to have less energy and reduced mobility which means they will sleep more than younger cats.
Is 12 considered old for a cat?
In recent years, feline ages and life-stages have been redefined, cats are considered to be elderly once they reach 11 years with senior cats defined as those aged between 11-14 years and super-senior cats 15 years and upwards.
What causes a cat to be lethargic all the time?
Obesity. Infection with a minor common virus such as cat flu. Other more serious conditions that are common in cats and cause lethargy are: Diabetes. Viral infections such as feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) or feline leukemia virus (FeLV) Bacterial infection.
What are the signs of an older cat?
Older cats frequently develop arthritis in their joints, making it harder to jump up on the back of the couch, climb the cat condo or get into and out of the litterbox. Vision and hearing loss are also common. You’ve probably already noticed an increase in catnaps, another indication that your cat is getting a little older.
Why do seemingly healthy Old Cats suddenly get sick and die?
As I mentioned, the early symptoms of chronic diseases are subtle and can be hard or even impossible to detect.
Can a veterinarian diagnose a lethargic cat?
Your veterinarian will perform a complete physical upon presentation of a lethargic cat. Diagnosis is complicated as there are many possible causes of lethargy in cats which range from mild to severe, as lethargy is a symptom of most illnesses and disorders.
What are the symptoms of lethargy in cats?
Symptoms of lethargy in cats are abnormal sleepiness, low energy, and lack of response to surroundings. Lethargy is not a condition or disease in itself, but can be a sign that something is wrong with your cat. Lethargy is a symptom in itself and is characterized primarily by the following:
What are the signs of an older cat getting sick?
Increased appetite may also be a concern, especially if it comes on suddenly in an older cat. Hypothyroidism may be the explanation, but your vet will need to run tests to be sure. Increased appetite should not be ignored, even in younger cats.
How to tell if your cat is dying of old age?
Telltale Signs an Old Cat Is Dying 1 Indications a Cat Is Dying of Old Age. According to the Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine,… 2 Signs of Death for Specific Diseases. Geriatric cats can die from several types… 3 Treatment Considerations. The severity of your cat’s symptoms will increase during… 4 The Aging Cat. When a cat ages,…
What happens when a senior cat gets confused?
You’ve probably already noticed an increase in catnaps, another indication that your cat is getting a little older. Like most senior animals, aging cats can develop dementia, and from this point on, your cat is at increased risk. It is harder for him to learn new things and adjust to change now, and he may get confused more easily.
