Our Vets are Available 🟢
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.
Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet Clinic
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial Guidelines
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
Resources
Lorem ipsum dolor
PricingHow it WorksContact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

Cat Anesthesia - too old for 19 year old cat?

I'm really in need of some advice and support right now. I've got a 19-year-old cat, Whiskers, who's been my buddy since college, literally half my life. He's in pretty good health overall, but he's got this stubborn dental issue that the vet says really needs to be addressed. The problem is, it requires anesthesia, and I'm honestly terrified. Is there anyone out there who’s gone through this? I know older cats are at higher risk with anesthesia, and he’s so frail these days that I worry putting him under is just too much. I want to make sure I'm doing what's best for him, but I'm torn between fixing this issue and not wanting to put him through something that could be really risky. Any insights or similar experiences would be so appreciated right now. Thanks in advance, everyone.

Answer:

Hello! It's wonderful to see such care and attention you're giving to your 19-year-old feline friend. At this age, it's completely understandable to have concerns about anesthesia.

While age itself isn't a direct contraindication for anesthesia, older cats might have underlying health issues that could increase risks. Common concerns include heart, kidney, or liver problems that can affect how your cat processes anesthetics. A thorough pre-anesthetic evaluation by your vet, including blood tests, can help determine the safest approach for your furry companion.

At home, monitor your cat for any changes in behavior, appetite, or energy levels, which can indicate health issues that might make anesthesia more risky. Also, ensure they have a cozy, stress-free environment, as this can promote overall well-being.

Watch for signs such as persistent vomiting, diarrhea, labored breathing, or any notable decrease in activity or appetite, as these may indicate a serious problem needing immediate attention.

Considering the unique needs of senior cats, it might be beneficial to discuss your specific concerns in more detail. Booking a video consult with a veterinarian through Dial A Vet can provide personalized advice and ease your worries about the best ways to care for your beloved cat.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 18, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
Just got blood test results for my dog - vet said it's nothing serious, but I'd appreciate an extra opinion!
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Super dehydrated cat, can not get fluids into him.
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Did my moms cat stand a chance at survival? He was 16 weeks old, 3.5lbs, and he had easter lily poisoning.
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
M/15 stage 3 kidney disease cat won't eat even w/Miritaz
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support—anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicFree Teachers lesson plansGasTexts: Free Gas Prices TextedCheersVC
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links