There is something very special about sharing life with an older pet. They know your routines, have perfected the art of finding the comfiest spot in the house and have probably been by your side through countless milestones.
As our dogs and cats get older, though, their needs begin to change. Ageing itself isn’t an illness, but senior pets are more likely to develop certain health problems, and some of the early signs can be surprisingly easy to put down to “just getting old”.
With a few adjustments at home, plenty of attention and regular veterinary care, you can help your golden oldie stay comfortable, active and happy well into their senior years.
When is a pet considered senior?
Ageing varies depending on species, breed, size and individual health.
Larger dogs, for example, often enter their senior years around age 6 to 9, while smaller breeds transition around 8 to 11 years old.
Cats are considered senior around 10 years old (or 8 for certain breeds).
Rather than concentrating too much on a number, it is useful to start paying closer attention to gradual changes as your pet gets older. Their appetite, weight, movement, thirst, toileting habits, behaviour and energy levels can all provide important clues about their health.
Keep up with regular health checks
One of the most important things you can do for an older pet is to keep on top of preventative healthcare.
Pets cannot tell us when something feels slightly different, and animals can be very good at hiding discomfort. Problems involving the kidneys, liver, thyroid, joints, teeth and other areas often begin with very subtle symptoms.
Regular examinations give your vet an opportunity to assess your pet’s general health and investigate changes before they become more significant.
We can also use diagnostic testing including blood and urine tests when appropriate, helping us build a clearer picture of what is happening inside your pet’s body. Our focus on continuity of care means our team can get to know you and your pet over time, which can be particularly valuable as they grow older.
At Happy Tails Vets, our Senior Health Screen combines many of these important checks into one comprehensive assessment. The screen includes a full health examination with a vet, blood pressure monitoring, and blood and urine testing. With continuity of care from our experienced team, we can track your pet’s health and provide tailored support throughout their senior years.
Watch for small changes
You know your pet better than anyone, so changes that might seem minor can be worth mentioning to your vet.
Keep an eye out for things such as:
- Drinking or urinating more than usual
- Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
- Changes in appetite
- Difficulty getting up, climbing stairs or jumping
- Stiffness, limping or slowing down on walks
- Bad breath or difficulty eating
- New lumps or bumps
- Changes in sleeping patterns
- Becoming unusually quiet, unsettled or vocal
- Confusion or changes in interaction with the family
None of these signs automatically means something serious is wrong, but they should not simply be assumed to be an inevitable part of ageing. If your pet seems “not quite right”, arranging a veterinary check is always sensible.
Support ageing joints
Many senior pets become a little less mobile with age. You might notice your dog taking longer to get out of bed or your cat thinking twice before jumping onto their favourite windowsill.
Simple changes around the home can make an enormous difference.
Provide a comfortable, supportive bed somewhere warm and draught-free. Rugs or nonslip mats can help pets feel more secure on slippery floors, while ramps or small steps can make favourite sofas, beds or cars easier to access.
For dogs, regular gentle exercise is generally preferable to occasional long or strenuous walks. Keeping moving can help maintain muscle strength and provide valuable mental stimulation, but the exercise level should always be what’s appropriate for your pet’s health and mobility.
If you notice stiffness or signs of discomfort, speak to your vet rather than assuming it is simply old age.
Review their diet and weight
Your pet’s nutritional needs may change as they age. Some older animals become less active and therefore need fewer calories, while others may lose weight because of an underlying health problem.
Maintaining a healthy body weight is particularly important because excess weight can place additional strain on ageing joints and contribute to other health concerns.
We recognise the important role nutrition can play in a pet’s overall health and wellbeing. If you are unsure whether your senior pet is eating the right food or the correct amount, ask our team for advice before making major changes.
Don’t forget dental health
Dental problems are common in older pets and can cause considerable discomfort.
Watch for bad breath, red or bleeding gums, dropping food, chewing on one side of the mouth or becoming reluctant to eat harder foods. Dental checks form part of a veterinary consultation, so mention any changes you have noticed.
Keep their mind active
Physical health is only part of the picture. Senior pets still benefit from play, interaction and opportunities to use their brains.
Short training sessions, food puzzles, scent games and gentle play can all provide stimulation without placing too much demand on ageing joints.
For older cats, consider placing food, water, beds and litter trays somewhere easy to reach. Your cat may still want to sit somewhere elevated, so providing intermediate steps can make favourite resting spots more accessible.
Most importantly, continue spending time together. Older pets may enjoy life at a slightly slower pace, but companionship and familiar routines remain hugely valuable.
Give your golden oldie the care they deserve
Getting older does not mean your pet has to stop enjoying life. With thoughtful changes at home, appropriate nutrition, regular veterinary attention and lots of affection, senior dogs and cats can continue to enjoy many happy moments with their families.
Early detection can also make an important difference. Instead of waiting until your pet appears unwell, proactive screening can help to identify changes that may not yet be obvious at home.
If your four-legged friend is entering their golden years, consider booking a Senior Health Screen with us.
