As your pet ages, their physical abilities progressively decline. They may still have the will and heart of a much younger pet, but their aching joints and diminished senses can make maintaining their daily routine extra difficult.

Use this list from the Family Pet Care team to help your senior pet maintain their rightful role as the heart of your household.

#1: Ensure your pet receives twice-yearly veterinary wellness exams

During a pet’s senior years, our veterinary care priorities shift from disease prevention (e.g., vaccinations, screening tests) to detection. This means that while heartworm and intestinal parasite testing are still advised, our veterinarian will also assess your pet for warning signs that precede age-related chronic diseases (e.g., arthritis, kidney disease, cancer). More frequent visits increase the likelihood that these potentially life-altering conditions can be detected, addressed, and minimized.

#2: Give your pet a grip with rugs, mats, and traction products

Senior pets experience age- and injury-related muscle loss (i.e., atrophy), which contributes to worsening balance and coordination but only becomes apparent when pets begin to slip or fall on smooth floors (e.g., hardwood, linoleum). Frequent falls not only put your pet at risk for serious injury but also erode their confidence, and they may avoid certain rooms or areas. Protect your pet’s joints and their self-esteem with non-slip rugs or yoga mats in high-traffic areas and places where your pet may jump from a height (e.g., stairs, couch). Alternatively, try traction products, such as PawFriction or Dr. Buzby’s Toe Grips.

#3: Help your pet up and down with ramps or stairs

Older dogs and cats commonly struggle to jump and climb because of multiple factors, including arthritis, decreased joint range of motion (i.e., reduced flexibility), and hind limb and core muscle weakness. Pets may hesitate before jumping up or down the stairs, pause halfway, move unnaturally, seek alternative routes (e.g., several small jumps instead of one larger one), or slip and fall.

Pet ramps or stairs are a simple and economical solution, because your pet maintains their independence and mobility without risking their safety and joint health.

#4: Support your pet’s decreased senses

Well-adjusted pets with impaired vision or hearing can become nervous and fearful, especially in unfamiliar environments. Although you can’t fit your pet with hearing aids or glasses, you can preserve their confidence by minimizing changes in the home environment (e.g., rearranging furniture), removing obstacles from their path, and providing gentle reassurance and emotional support. Also, communicate with your pet using their remaining senses (i.e., light, touch, and scent).

#5: Reevaluate your pet’s bowl

Your senior pet’s food bowl, and what you put inside, may impact their health. Ensure your pet is eating a complete and balanced diet formulated for senior dogs or cats, so you know that your pet is consuming the ideal protein and fat ratio, as well as the proper vitamin and mineral levels for their aging body. Talk to your pet’s veterinarian for a personalized pet food recommendation.

Watch your pet’s behavior as they eat. Pets with arthritic elbows or previous neck or back injuries may find that eating from a bowl on the floor is painful, while others may struggle to chase loose kibble around a maze-shaped bowl and become frustrated (e.g., pawing or tipping the bowl, walking away). 

Meal times should be pleasant and stress-free for your senior pet. If you notice discomfort or frustration, try an elevated feeder or easier slow-feeder bowl.

#6: Help your cat out, and in, with a low-sided litter box

Most litter boxes have high sides to minimize mess and keep litter inside the box. However, climbing over these tall walls can be difficult or painful for senior cats, and they may eliminate inappropriately in another room or on furniture. Swap at least one litter box for a low-sided model, or create your own from an under-the-bed storage container. Don’t wait for your cat to show they are in pain

#7: Keep your senior pet active with low-impact exercise and brain games

Senior pets tend to sleep more than their younger counterparts, but they still should be active. Regular low-impact exercise (e.g., walking, swimming) protects your pet’s muscles and joints, preserves a healthy body condition, and may slow arthritis progression. In addition, positive social interactions and brain-engaging activities, such as sniffing-based games, treat-dispensing toys, and gentle one-on-one play sessions, can prevent boredom and depression, create new neural pathways, and potentially ward off cognitive dysfunction syndrome (i.e., senior pet dementia). 

Your relationship with your senior pet is filled with unforgettable moments and adventures. With these thoughtful adjustments to their home care routine, you can make wonderful memories together for years to come. Contact the Family Pet Care team to schedule your senior pet’s wellness appointment or for personalized nutrition or exercise recommendations.