Is my adopted cat older than I was told?

alhera

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In April I adopted a neutered mature male mix-breed from a family who were rehoming him because he wasn't coping with the family toddler. They told me he was 10, but after a few months, I'm pretty sure he's older than that. He's active, sweet-natured and extremely affectionate, although he will occasionally 'slap' you randomly(usually when you're not paying him any attention) with his claws sheathed. Had a sore hip when he arrived that he hated being touched, which has resolved. He's ginger and white. Is reumy around the eyes, but the eyes themselves are clear. He has lentigo on his nose, ears, and inside lips. He seems a good weight, and has glossy, thick fur. Can someone have a look and see what they can tell from photos?

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He will be going to the vet soon as we are moving 300 miles in a months time and I want him and  my other cat to have a check-up first, and I'll ask the vet then, but I was just wondering what people though?

Thanks:)
 
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denice

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He is a handsome kitty.  It is really difficult to judge the age of an adult kitty.  A vet could probably give you a general idea though it won't be a sure thing because kitties age differently.  The important thing is that a vet will be able to tell you what is going on health wise.

A kitten can be given a very close age because of their teeth, development and size but an adult kitty is very difficult.
 

stephenq

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In April I adopted a neutered mature male mix-breed from a family who were rehoming him because he wasn't coping with the family toddler. They told me he was 10, but after a few months, I'm pretty sure he's older than that. He's active, sweet-natured and extremely affectionate, although he will occasionally 'slap' you randomly(usually when you're not paying him any attention) with his claws sheathed. Had a sore hip when he arrived that he hated being touched, which has resolved. He's ginger and white. Is reumy around the eyes, but the eyes themselves are clear. He has lentigo on his nose, ears, and inside lips. He seems a good weight, and has glossy, thick fur. Can someone have a look and see what they can tell from photos?
He will be going to the vet soon as we are moving 300 miles in a months time and I want him and  my other cat to have a check-up first, and I'll ask the vet then, but I was just wondering what people though?

Thanks:)
A vet can consult a tooth chart to give you a fairly good idea.
 

catpack

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Not that you would want to go this route or not; but, a certified vet ophthalmologist can give you a very good estimate on age, based on changes that are seen in the eyes. This is more accurate than trying to determine age my tooth condition.
 

kat hamlin

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Cats really age at different rates.  I've met cats that were definitely 12 that seemed older than my 17+ year old Caedwyn.

I doubt examining teeth will help.  Depending on the wear they've received from good, indifferent, or bad care, and on genetic predisposition to a healthier mouth and gums, aging a cat by teeth is difficult--especially one that's been indoors.

When I worked at the low-cost spay/neuter clinic it was easier because most of the cats of unknown age were either kittens (go by tooth development) or stray adults (probably under 3 or they'd be dead already) and the vet could help confirm at least on girls by evaluating the status of internal organs. 

However, as 10 is already senior, I don't think it matters much whether he is a few years older than 10.  Treat him like a senior (albeit the younger side of senior).
 

pushylady

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They really can look so different. My friend has an 18 year old cat who looks wonderful for her age. You can tell she's an older cat, but you'd be surprised by how old. My two boys are both 12 this year, and one is definitely looking older than the other, even though we've had them both since kittenhood. Pushy is just skinnier and his fur is duller and patchy which makes him look older.
 

frida

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Does he have a tattoo in his ear? A vet can tell you his age based on the tattoo number. I volunteer as a foster and see cats of all ages in various conditions. The medical issues you described are not unusual for a cat of ten. I would also consider requesting the previous owners to get his vet records sent to you or your new vet. They should have that info in his history and it would be good for your new vet to have especially so he won't have to undergo extra rabies vaccine ect.
 
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