← Senior cats
The older American Shorthair
American Shorthairs are adaptable, healthy cats that often enjoy exceptionally long lives with proper care. Senior from 11, geriatric from 16.
Senior from
11 yrs
Geriatric from
16 yrs
Life expectancy
15–20
Checkups
Every 6 mo
Life stages
Average lifespan 15 to 20 years. Many American Shorthairs live well past it with good care and regular blood tests.
- Kitten0–1
- Young adult1–6
- Mature adult7–10
- Senior11–15
- Geriatric16+
Worth watching in American Shorthairs
Common in the breed, not certain. Mention them at the next visit.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
A thickened heart muscle, often silent. Ask about a heart check.
Obesity
Easy to miss as it creeps up. Hard on joints and heart.
Dental disease
Bad breath, red gums, dropping food. A dental check helps more than most things.
Hip dysplasia
Stiffness after rest, bunny-hopping, reluctance on stairs.
Food
- A senior cat food; wet food helps with water.
- Watch the weight, up or down. Both matter in an old cat.
- Several water bowls around the house.
- Ask about kidney-friendly diets if bloods change.
- Small meals more often if appetite drops.
Exercise and comfort
- Short play most days; let them set the pace.
- Low-sided litter trays, easy to reach.
- Steps or a ramp to the favourite spots.
- Gentle brushing when grooming slips.
- Vet visits every six months. Hiding more can be pain.