As our pets grow older, their needs change, just like ours do. If you have a senior dog or cat at home, you’ve probably noticed a few things: maybe they’re sleeping more, moving a little slower, or showing less interest in their favorite toys. These changes are natural, but they can also be signs of underlying health issues that need attention.
Today, let’s dive into the most common health problems in senior pets and what you can do to help them stay happy, healthy, and comfortable in their golden years.
How Old Is a “Senior” Pet, Really?
- It might surprise you, but pets are considered “senior” much earlier than people think.
- Cats are seniors by age 10–12.
- Small to medium dogs reach senior status at around 7–10 years.
- Larger dog breeds become seniors even earlier, at 6–8 years.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), nearly 45% of pet owners aren’t aware when their pet enters the senior stage — which means many age-related issues can go unnoticed.
Common Health Problems in Senior Pets
Here’s a look at what you should watch for as your pet gets older.
Arthritis and Joint Pain
- What it looks like:
- Limping or stiffness
- Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or go for walks
- Difficulty standing up or lying down
About 80% of dogs over age 8 and 90% of cats over age 12 show signs of arthritis, but it often goes undiagnosed.
What you can do:
- Keep them at a healthy weight
- Use orthopedic bedding
- Incorporate low-impact exercise like gentle walks
- Ask your vet about joint supplements or pain management options
- At Renfrew Animal Hospital, we often recommend personalized pain management plans based on your pet’s condition and lifestyle.
Dental Disease
- What it looks like:
- Bad breath
- Drooling
- Difficulty eating
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
Over 70% of cats and 80% of dogs show signs of dental disease by age 3 — and it gets worse with age. Left untreated, it can affect their heart, liver, and kidneys.
- What you can do:
- Schedule regular dental check-ups
- Brush their teeth
- Use dental treats and water additives
- Renfrew Animal Hospital offers professional dental cleanings to safely manage plaque and tartar buildup.
Heart Disease
- What it looks like:
- Coughing
- Fatigue after light exercise
- Rapid breathing
- Fainting or collapse
What you can do:
- Keep up with yearly check-ups
- Watch for subtle signs of fatigue or breathing changes
- Manage weight and nutrition
- Your vet may recommend blood work, chest x-rays, or medication — all available at Renfrew Animal Hospital.
Cognitive Dysfunction (Pet Dementia)
What it looks like:
- Disorientation or confusion
- Change in sleeping patterns
- Forgetting routines or house training
- Staring at walls or getting stuck in corners
What you can do:
- Keep a consistent routine
- Use puzzle toys and gentle mental stimulation
- Talk to your vet about supplements and medications that may help
- At Renfrew Animal Hospital, we can help you identify early signs and build a plan to slow progression.
Kidney Disease
What it looks like:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting or weight loss
What you can do:
- Schedule routine bloodwork and urine tests
- Monitor water intake and appetite
- Feed a kidney-friendly diet if needed
- We offer comprehensive senior wellness blood panels at Renfrew Animal Hospital to catch kidney issues early.
Why Regular Check-Ups Matter (More Than Ever)
As pets age, problems can develop quietly. Many health issues — like kidney disease or heart conditions — show no symptoms at first. That’s why senior pets should have wellness exams every 6–12 months.
At Renfrew Animal Hospital, we provide senior care check-ups tailored to your pet’s age, lifestyle, and health history. We’ll check their weight, teeth, heart, joints, and more — often catching small problems before they turn serious.
Need Advice About Your Senior Pet?
If your dog or cat is showing any of these signs, or if you’d like to schedule a senior wellness check, give us a call at 778-737-1600. Our team at Renfrew Animal Hospital is here to help you keep your beloved companion feeling their best in their golden years.
Because pets don’t just age — they deserve to age well.
