Pet care for senior dogs and cats

Golden years

Have you noticed your furry family member starting to sprout a few grey hairs or are they less sprightly than they were? It could be time to reconsider your approach to pet care for your older dog or cat. As our pets age, we need to take extra care to ensure they are as comfortable as possible and to provide them with the best quality of life. Rebecca Linigen, national director at animal welfare organisation Four Paws Australia, says cats and small-to-large dogs are typically considered seniors from eight to nine years of age, and giant-breed dogs from six to seven years old. At this stage of their life, you might need to begin making changes to both your pet care routines and pet supplies to keep your animal best friend happy and in good health. Here’s how.

Food for thought

If your pet is heading into their golden years, it’s a good idea to rethink their diet. Most senior diets will have lower kilojoules to account for a slower metabolism and reduce the risk of excessive weight gain and obesity, which can exacerbate age-related illnesses and joint pain. Senior diets also contain slightly different nutrients and extra supplements to help with ageing – for example, ingredients to promote joint health.

Upgrade cat and dog beds

Revisit your pet’s bedding. “Senior animals especially require soft, supportive, warm bedding and kennels that are easy for them to get into and out of,” says Rebecca. “Senior dogs and cats can also be more sensitive to the weather and environmental temperature changes, so be extra careful on hot summer days.”

Activity levels for senior animals

Exercise is another aspect of pet care that may need modification – although remember that physical and mental exercise are still important for senior cats and dogs. “Try going for shorter walks and avoid high-impact activities, such as repetitive fetch, to minimise any risk of pain for your pet,” says Rebecca. “Slow ‘sniff walks’ are incredibly mentally enriching for dogs of all ages.” She also suggests choosing lower-impact activities like swimming, setting up different physical activity options such as adding more steps and shelves in cat trees, and incorporating strength and flexibility training for dogs.

Mental exercise is just as important for older dogs and cats. “Ensuring your animal is mentally stimulated, for example by puzzle feeders, scent work [finding favourite toys or treats] and play is a great way to provide enrichment for your senior pet, without including physical exertion,” says Rebecca. “While older dogs and cats are often calmer, they still enjoy learning and exploring new things. You really can teach an old dog new tricks!”

Ongoing pet care considerations

Addressing mobility issues as they appear can help your pet be healthier and more comfortable for longer. For cat parents, it is important to note cats are extremely good at hiding any issues, so any changes are a potential cause for concern. Signs of underlying illness or pain might include your cat or dog not jumping on the couch or bed, or into the car, as easily, quickly or frequently, or changes in behaviour, eating, drinking and toileting.

Some home adjustments might include introducing pet stairs onto furniture, ramps into the car, using a baby gate to block the stairs if your pet is having trouble with them, and elevated food bowls if they have neck or back problems. When it gets to this point, though, there’s no substitute for veterinary advice. See your vet for a health check, tailored care and support.

Give your furry friend some creature comfort

Read our guide on how to choose the best pet bed.

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