Knowing how old a cat is It is not always an easy task, especially if we have not been with the dog since birth or if we adopted it when it was already an adult. However, there are multiple physical and behavioral signs that allow us to estimate its age. In this article, we will explore in depth how to determine the age of the dog. age of a cat based on their physical characteristics, behavior, and other key factors.
Find out how to identify the age of a cat without the need to take it to the vet, although it is always advisable to go to a professional to obtain a more precise assessment.
Identifying a cat's age: general aspects
Cats go through several stages in their lives, and each stage presents significant physical and behavioral changes. From kittens to their senior years, recognize these stages can help us better understand their needs and care for them appropriately.
Dogs
A cat is considered a kitten from birth until it is one year old. During this stage, its body goes through numerous changes, including development of your teeth and the change in the color of their eyes. Below we detail each month of this stage:
First month
- At birth, kittens have their eyes closed and their ears folded. Their eyes begin to open between 7 and 10 days, although they do not yet have full vision.
- The ears, initially closed, begin to activate at around two weeks.
- During this period, they begin to develop strength in their legs to stand upright. However, their movements are unsteady.
Second month
- By the fifth or sixth week, kittens begin to run, jump, and play actively. This is the point at which they begin to experience independence.
- The colour of their eyes usually changes around six weeks. All kittens are born with blue eyes, but from this moment on they begin to take on their final colour.
- Their temporary teeth (baby teeth) are fully developed at the end of this stage.
Between the third and sixth month
- Permanent teeth begin to replace the temporary ones. This change is usually complete around six months.
- During these months, kittens are extremely active: they jump, run and find fun in almost any object.
- In some breeds, especially the younger ones, they may begin to show signs of heat at five or six months.
Adult cat: 1 to 10 years
Once a cat turns one year old, it enters its adult stage. However, its physical development and maturation do not stop until it is 3-5 years old, depending on the breed. During this stage, its Energy and nutritional needs stabilize, but your dental and health care is still crucial.
- Between the ages of 1 and 5, teeth may develop a slight build-up of tartar. If left untreated, this problem can worsen over time.
- The coat is usually clean and shiny, but if the cat has spent time outdoors, it may look duller or damaged.
- From the age of 5, teeth begin to wear down noticeably and problems such as periodontal disease may appear.
As a cat approaches 10 years of age, it is common for its activity level to decrease. It is also more prone to developing diseases. chronic conditions such as kidney problems or diabetesRegular veterinary check-ups are essential to ensure your pet's well-being.
Senior cats: 10 years or older
Cats over 10 years old enter their senior stage. At this stage, signs of aging are more evident and their Care needs change significantlySome of the most common changes include:
- HAIR: The coat may become rougher or knotted due to reduced grooming activity.
- Teeth: Tooth wear is extreme and may be accompanied by tartar or serious dental problems.
- General health: They may develop age-related diseases such as arthritis, kidney failure or hypertension.
Essential care for older cats
Senior cats need a special diet adapted to their age and health. In addition, it is important to provide them with a comfortable bed to protect their joints and keep them in a calm environment.
Estimating a cat's age can seem complicated, but paying attention to its physical characteristics and behavior offers a good approximation. Knowing its age is essential to provide adequate care at each stage of its life.