Watching our pets age brings a bittersweet blend of fond memories and new challenges. As they get older, we want to ensure that their twilight years are filled with joy, health, and comfort. It’s normal to have questions about how to care for our senior dogs and cats. Should they eat special food? Do they need more frequent vet visits? What about supplements? To support us on this journey, we sought insights from veterinarians on how to keep our furry friends happy and healthy.
While there isn’t a strict age at which pets officially become seniors, certain markers can guide us. According to Dr. Molly Brinkmann, Veterinary Advisor at PetAg, cats generally enter their senior years around 10 years old. However, for dogs, it varies by size:
- Small dogs: 8-10 years
- Medium dogs: 7-9 years
- Large and giant breeds: As early as 6-7 years
“Understanding these age classifications is essential because after reaching senior status, the focus shifts to proactive care. This includes more frequent exams, every six months, along with routine lab work to catch age-related conditions early,” explains Dr. Kristi Crow, Veterinary Advisor at PetAg.
The Most Common Health Issues in Aging Pets
Aging isn’t a health concern by itself, but it does elevate the risk for certain conditions. Common health issues for senior pets include osteoarthritis, dental disease, kidney disease, heart disease, hormonal disorders, and cognitive changes, according to Brinkmann.
Osteoarthritis and dental issues are particularly common but often go unnoticed, she adds.
“Osteoarthritis is an inflammatory joint disease causing pain and stiffness. In dogs, it might appear as difficulty getting up, reduced energy during walks, or hesitance with stairs. In cats, the signs can be subtler: they might jump less, groom differently, or behave more reclusively,” Brinkmann elaborates. “Dental disease causes not only pain and inflammation but can have serious effects beyond the mouth, impacting the heart and kidneys. Symptoms like bad breath or difficulty eating are red flags.”
The key for pet owners is to monitor any behavioral changes. Is your pet dropping food while eating? Having accidents indoors? Displaying confusion or anxiety?
“Changes in eating, drinking, energy, mobility, and bathroom habits serve as early warning signs. Pets have a remarkable ability to hide discomfort, so by the time symptoms become visible, the condition may be serious. That’s why regular exams and bloodwork are crucial; they enable us to identify issues before emergency care is required. Aging shouldn’t equate to suffering; many senior conditions can be managed effectively when detected early,” Dr. Crow emphasizes.
Why Regular Checkups Are Critical for Senior Pets
“Absolutely! When pets reach senior status, my approach shifts significantly. I advocate for routine checkups ideally every six months,” Dr. Crow states.
Why every six months? Animals undergo changes much more quickly than humans do, and a lot can transpire in that time. These regular exams often reveal changes in weight, muscle mass, heart function, and behavior. Your vet might also suggest routine lab tests to screen for kidney issues, thyroid conditions, diabetes, liver problems, and anemia—all of which are challenging to detect early without testing but can greatly affect your pet’s quality of life.
Do Senior Pets Need Special Diets or Supplements?
Before making any dietary shifts based solely on age, consult your vet regarding your pet’s overall health and nutritional needs. Every pet is unique.
“For instance, a pet with kidney issues might benefit from a special renal diet. A dog dealing with joint problems may need more omega-3s and controlled calorie intake. A diabetic pet would require a diet formulated for glucose control, irrespective of age,” Dr. Crow explains. “The best dietary choices are tailored to your pet’s health and energy levels, guided by your veterinarian.”
As for supplements, Brinkmann frequently recommends joint and omega-3 supplements to help combat inflammation and promote mobility and cognitive health.
Lifestyle adjustments are important too. Maintaining a healthy weight, providing consistent low-impact exercise, ensuring proper footing at home, and keeping routines stable can all contribute to your pet’s well-being.
The Biggest Mistake Pet Parents Make as Their Pets Age
A common misconception among pet owners is that changes like decreased energy and increased sleep are simply signs of aging. However, there are often interventions that can enhance their quality of life.
“Aging doesn’t imply that decline must be painful or uncomfortable. Today, we have more tools than ever for managing pain, supporting mobility, and providing nutritional, dental, and chronic disease care than we did even ten years ago. The aim is not just to extend life but to ensure it’s a comfortable, engaged, and fulfilling life for as long as possible,” Dr. Crow asserts.
