Senior Pet Care

Specialized care for your aging companions to ensure comfort, health, and quality of life in their golden years.

Caring for Your Senior Pet

As pets age, their health needs change significantly. Senior pets (generally considered 7+ years for dogs and cats) require more frequent monitoring and specialized care to maintain their quality of life and detect age-related conditions early.

Our senior pet care program is designed to help your aging companion stay comfortable, active, and healthy through their golden years with comprehensive wellness exams and targeted treatments.

When is a Pet Considered Senior?

Dogs

• Small breeds (under 25 lbs): 10+ years
• Medium breeds (25-75 lbs): 8+ years
• Large breeds (over 75 lbs): 6+ years
• Giant breeds: 5+ years

Cats

• Indoor cats: 11+ years
• Outdoor cats: 7+ years
• Mixed indoor/outdoor: 9+ years

Comprehensive Senior Wellness Exams

Recommended every 6 months (twice as frequent as adult pets) because health changes can occur rapidly in senior animals.

Physical Examination

• Joint mobility and arthritis assessment
• Heart and lung function evaluation
• Vision and hearing tests
• Dental health evaluation
• Body condition and weight monitoring

Diagnostic Testing

• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Chemistry panel for organ function
• Thyroid function testing
• Urinalysis
• Blood pressure monitoring

Common Age-Related Conditions

Arthritis & Joint Disease

Affects up to 80% of senior pets. Signs include stiffness, difficulty jumping, and reduced activity.

Treatment options: Pain management, joint supplements, laser therapy, weight management

Kidney Disease

One of the most common causes of illness in senior cats and dogs.

Early detection: Regular blood work and urinalysis can catch kidney disease before symptoms appear

Heart Disease

Heart murmurs and cardiac changes become more common with age.

Monitoring: Regular cardiac evaluation and chest X-rays when indicated

Cognitive Dysfunction

Similar to dementia in humans, affecting memory, learning, and awareness.

Signs: Disorientation, changes in sleep patterns, house soiling, anxiety

Cancer

Risk increases significantly with age in both dogs and cats.

Prevention: Regular examinations help detect lumps, bumps, and other changes early

Home Care for Senior Pets

Comfort & Mobility

• Orthopedic bedding for joint support
• Ramps or steps to reduce jumping
• Non-slip rugs on smooth floors
• Easy access to food, water, and litter boxes

Exercise & Mental Stimulation

• Gentle, regular exercise appropriate for ability
• Interactive toys and puzzle feeders
• Mental enrichment activities
• Maintain routines for security

Schedule Senior Wellness Exam

Bi-annual wellness exams are crucial for detecting age-related health changes early.

(770) 382-8570

cahvet@bellsouth.net

Book Senior Exam

Senior Pet Warning Signs

• Changes in appetite or water consumption

• Difficulty getting up or walking

• Changes in bathroom habits

• Increased sleeping or hiding

• Confusion or disorientation

• Lumps, bumps, or unusual odors

Don't wait - early intervention can significantly improve outcomes for senior pets.

Is Your Pet in Pain?

Pets hide pain well. Watch for these subtle signs:

• Reluctance to jump or climb stairs

• Stiffness after resting

• Changes in posture or gait

• Decreased activity or playfulness

Pain management can dramatically improve quality of life for senior pets.

Help Your Senior Pet Age Gracefully

With proper veterinary care and attention to changing needs, senior pets can continue to enjoy happy, comfortable lives for many years.

Schedule Senior Wellness Exam