As pets enter their senior years, their care needs evolve—and it’s important that pet owners adapt along with them. Older dogs and cats are more prone to conditions like arthritis, dental disease, and organ decline. With the right support, your pet can still enjoy a comfortable and happy life well into their golden years. At Valley Animal Hospital, our geriatric care programs are designed to guide you through this important stage with compassion and expertise.
Recognize the Signs of Aging in Your Pet
Aging in pets can be gradual, making it easy to miss early signs of decline. Understanding what’s normal and what could indicate a problem allows for earlier intervention and better quality of life.
Common signs of aging in pets include:
- Slower movement or stiffness when getting up
- Vision or hearing loss
- Increased sleeping or changes in behavior
- Weight gain or loss
- Difficulty climbing stairs or jumping onto furniture
- Changes in appetite or bathroom habits
Noticing these shifts early and communicating them to your veterinary team can lead to more effective care.
Prioritize Wellness Screenings and Preventive Exams
Routine checkups become even more important as pets age. Preventive care can catch illnesses before they become serious, offering better outcomes with less stress on your pet.
A senior wellness visit may include:
- Comprehensive physical exams
- Bloodwork to assess liver, kidney, and thyroid function
- Urinalysis to detect infections or other issues
- Weight and body condition evaluation
- Dental checks to identify oral disease
These routine screenings help create a full picture of your pet’s health and allow for tailored treatment plans.
Support Mobility with Joint Care and Lifestyle Adjustments
As pets get older, joint discomfort becomes more common—especially in large-breed dogs and overweight animals. Supporting their mobility can improve both comfort and daily function.
Ways to help your senior pet move more comfortably:
- Add soft bedding in warm, quiet areas
- Use pet stairs or ramps to reduce strain on joints
- Incorporate gentle walks or low-impact play
- Discuss joint supplements or medications with your vet
- Schedule regular weight checks to prevent added stress on limbs
These small changes can make a big difference in how your pet feels day to day.
Adjust Nutrition for Aging Needs
Diet plays a critical role in aging pets’ health. Senior animals often require lower-calorie foods with more targeted nutrients to support digestion, energy levels, and immune function.
Your veterinarian can help select age-appropriate food and recommend supplements if needed. Whether your pet has dental concerns, digestive issues, or weight changes, nutrition adjustments are a key part of geriatric care.
Partner with a Clinic That Knows Senior Pet Care
Providing proper geriatric care means more than treating symptoms—it means improving your pet’s comfort and quality of life. At Valley Animal Hospital, we tailor our senior care services to meet your pet’s changing needs with compassion and experience.
If your pet is entering their senior years, contact us today to schedule a wellness exam and learn how our dedicated team can support them every step of the way.
