Why Do Dogs Turn Gray, But Cats Don’t?

Who wouldn’t feel a twinge of affection when they see a gray-faced, wise-looking old dog? However, have you ever noticed that cats rarely show this sign of aging? What could be the reason for this? Do cats even turn gray at all?

In our next article, we’ll unveil the mystery of graying cats.

Graying Cats: As Rare as White Ravens

The truth is, cats can turn gray, but it happens very rarely and not as prominently as in dogs. There’s a scientific explanation for this. As our feline friends navigate the winding road of life, they generally retain enough melanocytes – the cells in hair follicles responsible for melanin production – to prevent significant changes in their coat color.

The exact reason for this remains unknown. It’s possible that cats are born with more melanocytes, or perhaps their number naturally decreases less dramatically than in dogs.

If you ask us laypeople, it might have something to do with the fact that cats domesticated themselves much more recently than dogs have been living with humans. As a result, they may still retain more wild traits, such as needing their original coloration for camouflage. It’s possible that graying might become more common in cats over time. But again, this is mere speculation without a scientific basis.

The Lifespan of a Cat

Officially, cats are considered middle-aged between the ages of 7 and 10, senior between 11 and 14, and super-senior or elderly between 15 and 25 – whichever term you prefer. However, in veterinary practices, cats over 7 years old are treated as seniors. At this stage, it’s recommended to increase routine check-ups from once to twice a year.

Cats are masters at hiding illnesses, which can even challenge experienced owners. These check-ups can help detect conditions that might otherwise cause your cat suffering or lead to premature death. As a responsible pet owner, please ensure your cat aged 7 or older visits the vet twice a year!

Signs of Aging in Cats

Here are some common signs of aging in cats:

• Lenticular Sclerosis: As cats age, the lenses in their eyes age too, a phenomenon known as lenticular sclerosis. This can cause their eyes to appear cloudier, similar to cataracts, but it doesn’t impair vision. It’s worth consulting a vet to rule out more serious conditions like cataracts or glaucoma.
• Loss of Muscle Mass: Like humans, aging cats lose muscle mass. This is most noticeable along the spine and hind legs. If the muscle loss is significant, it could indicate an illness rather than natural aging, in which case you should consult a vet.

• Reduced Activity: Older cats tend to rest more, move less, and may take longer to wake from sleep. You might notice they no longer jump, run, or get up as easily after resting. This can often be attributed to arthritis, which, if untreated, can severely affect their quality of life.
• Weakened Immune System: As cats age, their immune systems weaken, making them more susceptible to diseases, including dental issues. This is another reason to prioritize twice-yearly veterinary check-ups for senior cats.