Watching your beloved pet start to slow down can tug at the heart. Maybe they’re sleeping more than they used to, taking the stairs a little more cautiously, or simply seeming “older.” It’s all part of the natural aging process. And the good news? There are many ways to help your pet stay comfortable, healthy, and happy as they move through their senior years.
Whether you’re caring for a grey-muzzled dog or a dignified senior cat, our team at Cloquet Animal Hospital is here to guide you every step of the way.
When Is a Pet Considered “Senior”?
While age is just a number, pets often reach their senior stage around:
- 7 years old for most dogs, especially larger breeds
- 10 years old for cats, though some may show signs earlier
Senior pets may not bounce around like they once did, but they still have so much life and love to give. The first step in supporting them is recognizing when their needs begin to shift and making thoughtful adjustments to their care.
If your pet is in or approaching this age range, it’s a good time to schedule a senior wellness exam. Catching small changes early helps prevent larger issues down the road.
How to Support an Aging Pet at Home
Create a Comfortable Living Space
Simple changes can make a big difference. Older pets often experience stiffness or joint pain, so soft bedding and easily accessible resting areas are important. Consider:
- Adding non-slip rugs on hardwood or tile floors
- Using pet stairs or ramps for beds and couches
- Placing food and water bowls at a comfortable height
- Choosing orthopedic or memory foam beds for joint support
Small tweaks to their environment can ease daily strain and reduce the risk of injury.
Encourage Safe Movement
Even if your pet isn’t as spry as they used to be, regular movement is still essential for physical and mental health.
- For dogs: Gentle walks on soft surfaces, swimming, or light games of fetch
- For cats: Interactive toys, climbing steps, or window perches
- For both: Puzzle feeders and slow feeders to promote mental engagement
Movement keeps joints limber and helps prevent weight gain, which is especially important for aging pets with arthritis.
Nutrition Makes a Difference
Just like us, pets’ nutritional needs change as they age. Senior-specific diets support joint health, immune function, and weight control. Depending on your pet’s health, our veterinary team may recommend:
- A lower-calorie formula to help manage weight
- Foods with added glucosamine and omega-3s for joint support
- Prescription diets for conditions like kidney disease or diabetes
If your pet has special dietary needs, we offer trusted products in our online pharmacy. Our team is also happy to provide guidance on choosing the best food for your pet’s lifestyle and health status.
Managing Pain and Chronic Conditions
Many senior pets experience arthritis, but they rarely complain. Instead, they might move slower, hesitate before jumping, or sleep more than usual. These are signs your pet may be in discomfort.
Fortunately, there are many ways to manage pain and support joint health, including:
- Anti-inflammatory medications prescribed by your veterinarian
- Joint supplements containing glucosamine, chondroitin, and fish oil
- Low-impact exercise routines
- Soft bedding and warm, draft-free sleeping areas
- Laser therapy or acupuncture, depending on your pet’s needs
Please never give your pet over-the-counter pain medications designed for humans. Some can be toxic to animals. Instead, schedule an appointment with our veterinary team so we can create a safe and effective treatment plan.
Keep Their Mind Active
Cognitive decline, or “doggy dementia,” can affect memory, behavior, and sleep patterns in older pets. Cats can also show signs of disorientation or confusion as they age.
To help maintain mental sharpness:
- Stick to a consistent daily routine
- Use puzzle feeders or hide treats for sniff-and-search games
- Introduce new toys regularly
- Try gentle training sessions with positive reinforcement
Mental stimulation helps reduce anxiety and supports overall well-being. It also strengthens your bond, which becomes even more important during this stage of life.
Why Senior Pets Need Regular Checkups
Older pets benefit from seeing their veterinarian more often, usually every six months. This allows us to:
- Monitor for changes in weight, appetite, or behavior
- Run bloodwork and urine tests to detect early signs of disease
- Adjust medications or diets as needed
- Check dental health, which can impact heart and kidney function
Our team at Cloquet Animal Hospital takes a gentle, compassionate approach. We are proud to have Fear Free Certified professionals who are trained to reduce anxiety during visits, making the experience more pleasant for pets and their people.
If your pet is due for a checkup, don’t wait! Schedule an appointment today.
Helpful Products for Senior Pets
There are many tools available to help make your aging pet’s life more comfortable. Some of the most popular products in our online pharmacy include:
- Joint supplements and fish oil
- Prescription foods for senior health and chronic conditions
- Dental care chews and oral rinses
- Pain relief medications
- Mobility aids like pet ramps or non-slip booties
We’re happy to help you find the right products and teach you how to use them effectively at home.
Growing Older, Together
Our pets may slow down with age, but they still fill our homes with joy, love, and companionship. Supporting them through their golden years is one of the greatest gifts we can give back.
At Cloquet Animal Hospital, we’re here to partner with you in every stage of your pet’s life. Whether you’re navigating arthritis, adjusting a diet, or simply unsure of what’s normal aging behavior, our veterinary team is ready to help.
Let’s make these senior years as comfortable, healthy, and love-filled as possible.
Ready to give your senior pet the support they deserve? Schedule a wellness visit or shop for helpful senior pet products in our online pharmacy.