Caring for Your Senior Pet: A Guide to the Golden Years

With the right care, your pet's senior years can be their most comfortable.

When Is My Pet Senior?

| Size | Senior Age | Life Expectancy |

|------|-----------|------------------|

| Small dogs (<10kg) | 10-12 years | 14-16 years |

| Medium dogs (10-25kg) | 8-10 years | 12-14 years |

| Large dogs (25-45kg) | 6-8 years | 10-12 years |

| Giant dogs (45kg+) | 5-6 years | 8-10 years |

| Cats | 10-12 years | 15-20 years |

Diet Adjustments

Reduce calories by 20-30% — slower metabolism, less activity.

Higher quality protein — not less protein, better protein. Named meat sources, easily digestible.

Joint support — glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids, green-lipped mussel.

Hydration — water fountains for cats, wet food more often, multiple water stations.

Exercise Modifications

Dogs: Shorter, more frequent walks. Swimming is ideal (low-impact). Consistent schedule. Watch for limping or stiffness.

Cats: Lower perches, ground-level play, puzzle feeders, warm sunny spots.

Common Senior Conditions

Arthritis

Affects 80% of dogs over 8, 90% of cats over 12. Signs: difficulty rising, reluctance to jump, stiffness after rest.

Management: Weight control, supplements, gentle exercise, orthopaedic bedding, ramps, anti-inflammatory medication.

Cognitive Decline (DISHA)

• Disorientation — stuck in corners, staring at walls
• Interaction changes — less affectionate
• Sleep disruption — pacing at night
• House soiling — previously house-trained
• Activity changes — repetitive behaviours

Dental Disease

Nearly universal by senior age. Bacteria damage heart, liver, kidneys. Annual dental cleanings essential.

Kidney Disease

1 in 3 cats over 15. Signs: increased thirst, urination, weight loss. Annual blood panels critical.

Vision and Hearing Loss

Don't rearrange furniture. Approach from the front. Use hand signals. Night lights help.

Senior-Friendly Home

Orthopaedic memory foam beds

Ramps for beds, couches, and cars

Non-slip rugs on hard floors

Night lights for navigation

Raised food and water bowls

Low-entry litter boxes

Heated beds for arthritic joints

Vet Schedule

| Age | Frequency | Key Tests |

|-----|-----------|------------|

| 1-7 | Annual | Exam, vaccinations |

| 7-10 | 6 months | + Blood panel, urinalysis |

| 10+ | 4-6 months | + Thyroid, blood pressure |

Pet Capsule tracks weight trends, medication schedules, behavioural changes, and shares health reports with your vet.