---
title: Five signs your senior cat is due for a checkup
description: Cats hide illness well. Here are the changes that tell you it's time to come in.
---

[Blog — PawCare](https://www.nopethemes.com/pawcare-preview/blog)

# [Five signs your senior cat is due for a checkup](https://www.nopethemes.com/pawcare-preview/blog/senior-cat-checkup-signs)

 Written by [Dr. Elena Hart, DVM](https://www.nopethemes.com/pawcare-preview/blog/author/dr-elena-hart-dvm) | Jun 5, 2026 6:00:00 AM

Cats are built to hide weakness, so the early signs of age-related illness are easy to miss. Once a cat reaches about ten, twice-yearly exams help us catch things like kidney disease, thyroid problems, and arthritis while they're still manageable.

## What to watch for

1. **Drinking or urinating more.** Often the first sign of kidney or thyroid disease.
2. **Weight loss despite a good appetite.** Common with an overactive thyroid.
3. **Less jumping or grooming.** Usually a sign of joint pain rather than laziness.
4. **Changes in litter-box habits.** Worth a same-week visit.
5. **Hiding or shifts in temperament.** Cats withdraw when they don't feel well.

## Why bloodwork helps

A senior blood panel shows us organ function long before symptoms appear. Paired with a good physical exam, it's the most reliable way to add comfortable years to your cat's life.

If you've noticed any of these, book a senior visit and we'll take a careful look.

[View full post](https://www.nopethemes.com/pawcare-preview/blog/senior-cat-checkup-signs)

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