Senior Health Care for Dogs & Cats

(8 years and over)

As dogs and cats enter their senior years, their needs change. While we understand that senior status is dependent on your pet’s species and breed, we use 8 years of age as a starting point for the additional care required for these beloved pets. With attentive veterinary care and early intervention, many dogs and cats continue to enjoy a good quality of life well into old age. Our team is here to support both you and your pet through this important life stage.

Preventative Care Tests

Routine testing such as blood and urine testing and blood pressure readings are an important part of senior pet care. These tests, performed as part of your pet’s 6-monthly senior health check, can help identify changes in organ function before clinical signs appear.

Preventative screening can detect conditions such as:

• Kidney or liver disease
• Diabetes
• Thyroid disorders
• Hidden infections or inflammation

Early diagnosis allows for proactive management and often leads to better long-term outcomes.

Parasite Control

Senior pets are just as vulnerable to parasites as younger animals, and infestations can have a greater impact on their health. Fleas, ticks, intestinal worms and heartworm can contribute to skin disease, anaemia, weight loss and general discomfort. Like younger animals, some parasitic burdens can be life-threatening to an older pet.  

We recommend year-round parasite prevention and can advise on safe, effective options suitable for older pets, particularly those with underlying medical conditions.

Nutrition & Weight Management

Proper nutrition plays a vital role in healthy ageing. Senior pets may experience changes in metabolism, muscle mass and activity levels, making weight management increasingly important.

Our trained nurses offer free personalised nutritional advice, including:

• Senior-specific diets
• Managing weight gain or unintentional weight loss
• Diets to support joint health, kidney function or other age-related conditions

Maintaining an ideal weight helps reduce strain on joints, supports organ function and improves overall quality of life.

Common conditions to be aware of in your adult dog or cat:

Our clinic treats a variety of conditions in senior dogs and cats. Knowing what to watch for can make all the difference if any of these conditions present in your pet.

Cognitive Dysfunction

Cognitive dysfunction syndrome, often referred to as “doggy dementia,” can also affect senior cats. Common signs include disorientation, altered sleep patterns, increased anxiety, changes in interaction, and house-soiling.

While cognitive decline cannot be cured, early recognition allows our veterinarians to put supportive strategies in place. These may include dietary changes, supplements, medication and environmental adjustments to help keep your pet comfortable and settled.

Renal Disease

Renal (kidney) disease is a common condition in senior dogs and cats, as kidney function naturally declines with age. The kidneys play a vital role in filtering toxins, balancing fluids, and maintaining overall health, so early changes can have widespread effects. Signs of renal disease may be subtle at first and can include increased thirst and urination, weight loss, reduced appetite, and lethargy. Regular wellness exams, blood work, and urine testing allow early detection, and with timely management—including diet changes and supportive care—many pets with kidney disease can continue to enjoy a good quality of life.

Regular veterinary check-ups and proactive preventive care are especially important during your dog or cat’s senior years, when age-related changes can develop more quickly. Routine exams, screening tests, and tailored care plans help detect and manage conditions early, supporting comfort and quality of life.

If you ever have concerns about your senior pet’s health, mobility, or behaviour, our veterinarians are your most trusted source of guidance.

🐾 Thoughtful senior care today helps your pet enjoy their golden years to the fullest.