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Caring for a senior dog or cat: what changes, and how to adapt
Health & safety · 2 min read
Older pets often need a gentler routine, more vet visits, and closer attention. Here is how to keep a senior pet comfortable and catch problems early.
When is a pet a senior?
It depends on species and size. Many cats are considered senior from around age 10 or so, and dogs from roughly 7 years, with large and giant breeds aging sooner and small breeds later. Your veterinarian can tell you where your pet is.
More frequent check-ups
Many veterinarians recommend checkups about twice a year for senior pets, often with routine bloodwork. Problems like kidney disease, thyroid issues, arthritis, and dental disease are common in older animals and are easier to manage when caught early.
Watch for gradual changes
The changes in older pets are often slow enough that the family doesn't notice, especially when several people share the care. Keep an eye on:
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Drinking more water or urinating more.
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Stiffness, trouble with stairs, or reluctance to jump.
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Changes in appetite or chewing on one side.
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Confusion, night-time restlessness, or getting stuck in corners.
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Lumps that are new or growing.
Make the home easier
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Non-slip rugs on smooth floors.
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Ramps or steps up to favorite spots.
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A thick, supportive bed in a warm, draft-free place.
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A litter box with a low entry for older cats.
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Shorter, more frequent walks instead of one long one.
Medication routines
Senior pets often take daily medications, sometimes several. Missed or doubled doses are a real risk when more than one person gives them. Set up a reminder for each dose at a fixed time and have whoever gives it mark it done, so the next person knows.
Quality of life
As pets age, families face hard decisions. Keeping notes on good days and bad days, appetite, and mobility helps you and your veterinarian see the trend honestly. Many veterinarians use quality-of-life checklists and are glad to talk them through with you.
Put this into practice with JotAboutMe
A shared board for every pet: repeating jots for meals and medications, reminders at the right time, and a record of who did what. Free for your household.