Supporting Health and Comfort in Senior Pets
Senior pets require specialized care to promote health and a long and active life. We recommend semi-annual wellness exams for our older patients to ensure that we stay on top of managing any health concerns to help extend their life expectancy.
Caring for Your Senior Pet
Did you know that most dogs are considered seniors at age 7 and cats at age 8?
To protect your senior pet, we strongly encourage semi-annual visits every 6 months so we can more closely monitor changes in health such as weight loss, dental disease, heart disease, arthritis pain, and other signs of disease. More frequent visits during older years allow our veterinarians to treat and prevent conditions before they become more advanced.
Behavioral change is also common. You may begin to notice new behaviors such as increased vocalization, confusion, disorientation, irritability, less responses, house soiling, less grooming, repetitive activity, frequent wandering, and an altered sleep schedule. We understand how challenging these new behaviors can be and we want to help! Age-related behaviors can be managed depending on each individual’s condition. Also, we are here for support during difficult times with aging pets that may require hospice care or euthanasia services. Our veterinarians can discuss options based on your individual situation.
Understanding the Changing Needs of Senior Pets
Most pets are considered seniors around seven years of age, though this can vary by breed and size. As pets grow older, you may notice changes in mobility, appetite, energy levels, or behavior. While some changes are a normal part of aging, others may be early indicators of underlying health concerns.
Nutritional needs, exercise routines, and daily habits often evolve with age. Staying attentive to subtle changes helps identify potential issues such as arthritis, organ changes, or cognitive decline before they progress.
Why Routine Wellness Visits Are Essential
Even when senior pets appear healthy, more frequent wellness exams—typically every six months—play a vital role in maintaining comfort and quality of life. These visits allow our team to:
- Monitor weight, mobility, and dental health
- Identify early signs of chronic or age-related disease
- Perform bloodwork and diagnostics to assess organ function
- Adjust medications, diets, or supplements as needed
For pets already managing medical conditions, regular testing helps track progress and ensures treatments remain effective. These appointments are also an ideal time to discuss any changes you’ve noticed, no matter how small.
Supporting Comfort Through the Golden Years
Advancements in veterinary medicine have allowed pets to live longer, healthier lives. With that added time comes the opportunity to continue enjoying daily routines, companionship, and comfort at home.
At Lakewood Animal Hospital, we’re committed to supporting pets through every stage of life. With proactive monitoring, early intervention, and personalized care plans, we help senior pets remain comfortable, active, and happy for years to come.
