How do cats die of old age? What are the signs of decline or pain?

Question

When cats die of old age, how does it usually go about happening? I mean, I know that the death is natural and all, but are there telltale signs like weeks before it happens, or is it sort of sudden and happens all at once? Also, do they show any pain or discomfort when dying of old age, are there any signs at all? Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Longhair | Female | spayed | 15 years and 4 months old | 20 lbs

Kevin Sanada, DVM · Accepted Answer

It really depends on what finally causes the cat to expire. Age alone is not a disease, but diseases and organ failure are more likely as the cat ages. Some diseases like kidney failure, cancer and certain infections do tend to get progressively worse over time, which leads to weight loss and usually some degree of suffering before the normal body functions can't cope anymore. Other diseases like heart disease (specifically a heart attack), or stroke can result in a sudden death where no visible signs of disease or suffering are noted prior to the incident. Usually, there are some signs of slowing down, or illness prior to the time that they die as an old cat, but it may not be noticed by the owner, because the changes can be gradual and cats will hide their illness well. I hope that helps to answer your question.

How do cats die of old age? What are the signs of decline or pain?

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