Our Vets are Available 🟢
Dial A Vet Logo
🐾 Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!Vet Tips - By Our Vets!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet ClinicGlossary
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial GuidelinesNewsletter
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
💵 Pricing📖 How it Works📧 Contact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

Elderly Cat's fine, except he's not fine?

I’m really at a loss here. My 15-year-old cat, Whiskers, usually spends his evenings napping on the couch, but last night he kept pacing around the house like he couldn't settle down. This has been going on for a couple of days now, and I’m starting to get worried. He’s also been more vocal than usual, meowing in a way that almost sounds frustrated or confused. He’s eating okay and still goes to the litter box fine, but something just feels off. Could this be a sign of something serious, or am I overreacting? I’m new to dealing with senior pet issues, so any advice or similar experiences would really help put my mind at ease. Should I take him to the vet, or is there another explanation for this restless behavior?

Answer:

Appreciate the question — let's unpack this. It sounds like you're noticing subtle changes in your cat that are understandably concerning. Cats are masters at hiding discomfort, especially as they age. These changes could be due to a variety of factors.



Common issues in older cats include arthritis, dental problems, kidney disease, or hyperthyroidism. You might notice changes like decreased activity, eating less, increased sleeping, or a shift in social behavior. These could all be signs of underlying health issues.



At home, you can ensure that he has an accessible litter box and water dish, and you might want to offer softer food if you suspect dental issues. Keep his environment calm and provide cozy resting places to ease any arthritic discomfort.



However, keep an eye out for more serious signs like difficulty breathing, notable weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in urination habits, which would require prompt veterinary attention.



I recommend scheduling a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet to get a more comprehensive assessment. A thorough examination can help identify any hidden issues and provide peace of mind.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 29, 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
Cat A has virus. Vet says wait it out. Now cat B has virus. Follow steps for cat A??
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Any exotics vets in the house?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Elderly Cat's fine, except he's not fine?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
[DOG] Yellow vomit every 2/4 days
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 ClinicAsk A Vet: Q&AGlossary
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links