Senior Pet Support

When is my pet considered a senior?

What are signs that my pet is ageing?

Remember: these signs don’t necessarily mean alarm bells! It just means that they may need a little extra TLC (but we think you’re more than happy to dish that out anyway). Keep in mind that some animals are more likely to let their symptoms show than others. Cats for example are notorious for keeping their discomfort hidden.

Signs that your pet has reached their senior years include:

Change in mobility. As cats and dogs age, it’s very common for them to experience stiff joints or even develop arthritis. This may mean that your pet takes a little longer to get out of bed in the morning, or perhaps very cold weather causes your pet’s joints to appear to stiff. Or, your dog might not want to walk quite as far as they used to. To help with this, you can consider introducing a joint supplement in the form of a powder, chew or treat, or a specialty food from a reputable brand. These will contain ingredients such as green lipped mussels, glucosamine, chondroitin and omega oils, all of which assist in easing stiff joints. Additionally, make sure they have a nice, comfy bed or spot to sleep with supportive cushioning.

Change in weight. Obesity is common in senior pets, and it’s often tied to the fact that they aren’t moving around as much as they used to (see mobility above). Or, your senior pet could be underweight, suggesting gastrointestinal problems or even dental issues that come with old age. To help with this, you can look for a senior pet diet that contains fewer calories for weight loss, have regular dental check-ups with your vet, and take note of how your pet is reacting to food.

Change in sleeping patterns and alertness. Increased sleep is associated with ageing, as is cognitive behaviour and alertness. A cat or dog may also suddenly become “lost” in their own home, forget familiar faces, or stop responding to vocal queues as they once did. To help with this, check in with your vet to make sure your pet isn’t experiencing the onset of dementia.

Change in drinking and toilet habits. If you’re finding that your cat or dog is drinking more water than usual, it could be an indication of kidney issues. Similarly, urinating a greater volume could signal a health problem such as diabetes or urinary disease – all associated with older pets. Cats can be fussy about their water bowl to begin with, so be sure to be extra vigilant around senior cats. To help with this, keep an eye on your pet’s toileting habits and consult with your vet if you are suspicious about anything. Wet food or a special water fountain may also encourage extra hydration if your pet isn’t drinking enough, which can result in painful urinary stones.

Change in grooming habits. Less grooming may indicate that your pet is feeling a little sore, as many senior pets tend to do. To help with this, regular bathing and gentle brushing sessions are in order – and we think your pet will love this, too!

Senior Pet Support Resources

Caring for your pets in their golden years is both an honour and a privilege, a testament to the bond shared over a lifetime of companionship. As they age, our pets rely on us more than ever, giving us the opportunity to repay their beautiful friendship with love, patience, and dedicated care. This phase of their journey, while challenging, is a profound act of gratitude, allowing us to ensure their comfort and happiness in their twilight years. In nurturing them through this stage we cherish every moment of their continued presence.

We are an animal-loving team dedicated to supporting you through your pet’s end of life journey and we understand how difficult it can be to prepare to say goodbye.

Below, you will find access to some wonderful resources on caring for your senior pet. We hope that you find them comforting and reassuring.

Should you need to speak with our team at any time, we are available on (08) 9248 6464 to support you xo