As your cat or dog ages, their needs change – and so should their care. Senior wellness exams are tailored to catch age-related issues early, manage chronic conditions, and help your pet enjoy a high quality of life well into their senior years.

If your pet is entering their senior years, typically around age 7 for dogs and cats, now is a great time to schedule a wellness check. Here are some tips for ensuring their golden years are as comfortable as possible.

Regular Wellness Exams

• As pet’s age, their risk for chronic health issues increase. Senior pets should visit their vet at least once a year for a comprehensive exam. These check-ups help us catch age-related issues early, like arthritis, kidney disease, or dental problems, when they’re most manageable. During a senior exam, your veterinarian may recommend routine bloodwork, urinalysis, and other diagnostic tests to create a full picture of your pet’s internal health. Early detection means we can begin treatment or make lifestyle changes before a condition progresses.

Nutrition Changes

• As their metabolism slows down and muscle mass begins to decline, your pet’s nutritional needs change. Senior pet foods are specially formulated to support aging bodies, with adjusted calorie levels, added joint support like glucosamine, and easily digestible ingredients. Some senior pets may also benefit from prescription diets if they’ve developed conditions like heart disease or kidney issues. We always recommend consulting with your veterinarian before making sudden changes in your pet’s diet. 

Weight & Body Condition

• Managing your pet’s weight becomes increasingly important as they age. Excess weight can worsen arthritis, heart disease, and other chronic conditions, while unintended weight loss may signal underlying illness or muscle loss. During wellness exams, your veterinarian can assess your pet’s body condition score (BCS) and muscle condition score (MCS) to help determine if they’re at a healthy weight and maintaining adequate muscle mass. Based on this assessment, we may recommend dietary adjustments  or changes to your pet’s exercise routine to support a healthy weight and overall well-being.

Exercise & Mobility

• It’s normal for older pets to slow down, but staying active is still vital for both their physical and mental health. One of the first signs of aging we often see is reduced mobility—your pet may not be as eager to play, tire more quickly, or struggle with stairs or getting up from rest. Despite this, gentle and consistent activity is key to keeping their joints flexible and muscles strong. Short walks, puzzle toys, and low-impact play are great ways to keep your pet moving without overexertion.

Keeping Comfortable

• Aging pets often develop aches and pains that can affect their daily comfort. Watch for potential signs of discomfort, like hesitation before jumping on furniture, sleeping more than usual, or stiffness after resting. You can make life easier for your senior pet by keeping food and water bowls at an easy-to-reach height, providing orthopedic bedding, and placing non-slip rugs on slick floors. If mobility becomes a bigger challenge, pet ramps or stairs can help them access their favorite spots without risk of injury.