The older British Shorthair
British Shorthairs are easygoing, calm, and affectionate. Their tendency toward weight gain requires careful diet management as they age. Senior from 10, geriatric from 15.
Senior from
10 yrs
Geriatric from
15 yrs
Life expectancy
12–17
Checkups
Every 6 mo
Life stages
Average lifespan 12 to 17 years. Many British Shorthairs live well past it with good care and regular blood tests.
- Kitten0–1
- Young adult1–6
- Mature adult7–9
- Senior10–14
- Geriatric15+
Worth watching in British 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.
Polycystic kidney disease
Inherited kidney cysts. Ask about a scan and regular kidney checks.
Obesity
Easy to miss as it creeps up. Hard on joints and heart.
Hemophilia B
A clotting disorder. Mention it before any surgery or injury.
Dental disease
Bad breath, red gums, dropping food. A dental check helps more than most things.
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.