Senior consultation

In the early stages, age-related ailments are often treatable, not only with medication but also with nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle adjustments. 

For senior dogs and cats, we recommend half-yearly check-ups and annual blood, urine, and blood pressure tests. During the check-up, we conduct a thorough clinical examination and an extensive questionnaire.

As animals age, they not only become more fragile but also are more susceptible to developing diseases. Arthritis, cancer, dental issues, heart failure, thyroid, and kidney problems are examples of diseases more common in seniors than juniors. The age at which a dog or cat becomes a senior varies. We consider a pet a senior when it has reached approximately 75% of its expected lifespan. It’s the age when the first signs of aging may appear.

Senior dog

For large, heavy dogs, the senior phase starts around six years old. For medium-sized dogs, this varies between six and nine years. Most small dogs are considered seniors from around nine years old. Hence, large dogs become seniors earlier than small dogs. The age-related conditions your dog may encounter vary greatly. Some are easy to treat, while others require more care and attention. You know your dog best. Pay attention to their body language, notice changes in behavior, and watch for signs they may give you to indicate something is wrong. This way, you can recognize early signs of common age-related conditions. Signs that your dog may have age-related ailments include:

• Decreased appetite
• Overweight
• Weight loss
• Difficulty lying down or getting up
• Difficulty climbing stairs
• Excessive panting
• Excessive coughing
• Excessive drinking and urination
• Urinary incontinence
• Bad breath
• Change in coat
• Changes in behavior

Senior cat

For cats, we typically consider them seniors when they reach an average of 10 years old. However, some pedigree cats are considered seniors as early as eight years old. Cats are experts at hiding their problems, and often, the symptoms of age-related ailments in cats (especially in the early stages) are very subtle. Any change in your cat’s behavior or appearance could indicate a problem, but pay particular attention to:

• Changes in appetite (more, less, or pickier)
• Excessive drinking and urination
• Weight loss
• Vomiting
• Poor coat condition
• Increased sleeping
• Decreased playfulness
• Difficulty climbing stairs and jumping
• Bad breath
• Aggression towards you or other cats in the household