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Every year on 16 June, we celebrate Mature Moggies Day to champion mature and senior cats over the age of 11.

Why do we celebrate Mature Moggies Day?

When looking for a new cat to join the family, many people opt for cute kittens and younger cats, meaning mature moggies are often overlooked. 

Sadly, older cats in our care wait three times longer to find homes than their younger counterparts. Mature and senior cats deserve to be championed because each has their own unique character. They can be just as loving and playful as younger cats. 

We promise to find a new home for every cat, no matter how long it takes. But we would love to get mature moggies into cosy new homes quicker, as that’s where they’re happiest. 

Find a mature moggy to adopt
How to care for elderly cats
long-haired ginger tabby cat lying on their side with their paw up by their face

How old is a mature cat?

Generally, moggies are considered mature when they reach the age of seven. Once they reach the age of 11, we grant them ‘senior kitizen’ status. 

With the constant improvements in veterinary care, cats are living longer and it’s not uncommon for your cat to reach the ripe old age of 18! 

When your cat enters their golden years, they will generally become less active, calmer, and perhaps will enjoy staying indoors a bit more. They will need some extra understanding for their changing lifestyle and care needs. But despite that, you will be rewarded with a content pet, who is often happy to spend much time quietly at home as a wonderful companion.  

How long do pet cats live?

Why do older cats get overlooked? 

Older cats often take longer to find new homes because many people: 

  • think kittens are cuter. Older cats can be just as adorable as kittens! We have lots of really cute older cats looking for homes  
  • assume kittens are easier to look after. Kittens actually need lots of play to prevent boredom. And you need to keep a close eye on them to make sure they don’t get up to mischief. Older cats do need their health monitored a little more closely. But they are often much calmer and more relaxed companions than kittens 
  • worry about health or vet costs. Older cats may need more frequent visits to the vet and are at greater risk of developing certain health conditions. But with the right care, they can be kept healthy into their old age. Plus, pet insurance can give you peace of mind about covering vet bills 

Common myths about older cats 

Let’s bust a few myths about mature moggies... 

  1. Myth: Older cats are less affectionate. All cats are different, and their personality isn’t always defined by their age. Many older cats love to snuggle or have a nice chin rub. In fact, they’re more likely to want to spend long evenings on your lap than energetic kittens. 
  2. Myth: Older cats don’t play. Most older cats still love to play. They have a natural instinct to want to pounce, chase and catch interesting objects. Play sessions may need to be shorter and gentler than when they were younger. But older cats will still appreciate a fishing-rod toy, kicker toy or a good old cardboard box. 
  3. Myth: Older cats cannot adapt to a new home. We rehome lots of older cats every year, and they usually have no trouble settling into their new life. If they have everything they need, they’ll make your home theirs in no time. They’ll much prefer it to a cat pen. 
  4. Myth: Older cats always have health problems. Many older cats can live long and happy lives with very few health problems, or none at all! Regular vet checks will be necessary, but with the right care you can keep your cat healthy long into their old age. And if any health problems do arise, getting early treatment will be cheaper and better for your cat in the long-term. 
Black-and-white cat

Why adopt an older cat? 

Mature and senior cats have a lot to offer. Here are just a few of the benefits of adopting an older cat. 

  • You will know what to expect. When you adopt a mature moggy from us, if possible, we will tell you all about their personality, quirks and preferences. These will most likely stay the same as they are past their development stages 
  • They are usually more content. Unlike overly active kittens, older cats will need less supervision when you’re not around. But you should still provide them with toys and enrichment to keep them entertained 
  • They are more likely to be a lap cat. Mature moggies are more likely to snooze for hours on you lap than younger cats. But this isn’t always guaranteed as all cats have individual personalities and preferences 
  • They are great for families with children. Depending on their personality, some mature moggies can be great for children as they can often be less frenetic than younger cats and the calmer presence can stop both children and the cat from becoming overstimulated. It will still be important to keep an eye on their interactions and ensure both your cat and children are safe and comfortable with one another 
More benefits of adopting an older cat
Black cat with green eyes and text saying #MatureMoggiesDay 16 June and the Cats Protection logo

Ways to support Mature Moggies Day 

  • Adopt a mature moggy. We have lots of older cats in our care waiting for new homes. Plus, you’ll be creating space for us to help another cat in need. Adopt a cat 
  • Foster older cats. Help us care for mature moggies while they wait for their new forever homes. Volunteer with cats 
  • Donate. Make sure we have the funds to care for older cats and give them a second chance. Make a donation 
  • Share on social media. Keep an eye on our Facebook and Instagram pages to find out how you can help us to celebrate older cats. If you’re the proud owner of a senior cat, show the world just how amazing they are. Share your photos and stories on social media using #MatureMoggiesDay 
Black-and-white cat lying down

Cat owners celebrate the joys of mature moggies

Meet the mature moggies who have been given a second chance in old age and enriched their new owners’ lives in return.

5 minutes
Close up of brown tabby cat

Proud to be a serial mature moggy adopter

Francesca Watson explains why she believes older is better when it comes to cat ownership.

10 minutes
one-eyed black-and-white cat playing with fishing rod cat toy

Why you should consider adopting an older cat

Discover how the love of an older cat can help combat loneliness and improve wellbeing.

5 minutes
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