What Vets Say You Should Be Doing When Your Beloved Pet Starts To "Slow Down"

"There's not an exact age when your beloved pet becomes a senior citizen, but there are some ranges to keep in mind, according to Dr. Molly Brinkmann, Veterinary Advisor at PetAg. Generally, cats are considered seniors around 10 years of age. For dogs, the answer varies by size: Small dogs: 8-10 years Medium dogs: 7-9 years Large and giant breeds: As early as 6-7 years"

"Your pet becoming a senior is not a health problem all on its own, but aging increases the risk for certain conditions, Brinkmann says. "Some of the most common issues we see in senior dogs and cats include osteoarthritis, dental disease, kidney disease, heart disease, endocrine disorders, and cognitive changes." Osteoarthritis and dental disease are the two most common and under-recognized age-associated issues for cats and dogs alike, she adds."

Senior status varies by species and size: cats around 10 years; small dogs 8–10, medium 7–9, large and giant as early as 6–7. Once pets reach senior status, care shifts to proactive monitoring with exams every six months and routine laboratory testing to detect gradual, age-related conditions early. Common age-related problems include osteoarthritis, dental disease, kidney disease, heart disease, endocrine disorders, and cognitive changes. Osteoarthritis and dental disease are especially common and often under-recognized, and both can significantly reduce quality of life long before signs are obvious. Early recognition and management improve comfort and outcomes.

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