We consider pets over the age of seven years old to be senior-aged. While they may still look and act as healthy as ever, dogs and cats at this stage in their lives are more susceptible to health issues. Early detection screening and consistent preventative wellness care can help prevent disease and minimize suffering in older pets.
Dog Years VS Human Years
7 dog years = 44 – 56 years
10 dog years = 56 – 78 years
15 dog years = 76 – 115 years
20 dog years = 96 – 120 years
Cat Years VS Human Years
7 cat years = 54 years
10 cat years = 63 years
15 cat years = 78 years
20 cat years = 97 years
Getting Older Means Going to the Vet More Often
While annual visits are recommended and important for pets of all ages, more frequent veterinary visits are especially important for older, more mature pets. At the senior stage in their lives, dogs and cats are more susceptible to health issues such as:
- Diabetes
- Arthritis
- Heart disease
- Liver disease
- Certain types of cancer
We recommend bringing your senior pet to visit our Houston, TX, veterinarians at least twice a year for a full head to tail exam and evaluation, vaccinations, and lab tests. Routine visits allow our veterinary team to stay on top of your senior pet’s health and inform you of any potential ailments.
Keeping your senior pets happy & healthy
Regular and consistent veterinary check-ups are one of the easiest ways to ensure your pet’s health. This is true for pets of all ages but is especially important for more mature pets. Here are a few other ways you can keep your aging pet happy and healthy at home:
Mobility Aids
Older pets may have difficulty getting around as easily as they used to. Aid your pet at home by placing ramps for easier access to furniture or adding rugs on hard or slippery flooring to improve traction.
Exercise
While your older pet may not exercise as much as they did when they were younger, it is important to keep them active. Frequent exercise helps to keep your pet mobile, boosts their mood, and prevents weight gain.
Comfortable Bedding
Consider providing your pet with a soft, supportive, or orthopedic bed for resting, relaxing, and sleeping to relieve joint pain and provide an extra level of comfort.
Healthy Diet
Just like at any age, your pet should eat a nutritional, well-balanced diet that is age appropriate. Ask your veterinarian for diet recommendations for optimal digestion and caloric intake.
Careful Monitoring
While our veterinarians are able to detect changes in your pet with frequent visits and exams, you know your pet best. Keep an eye out for any changes in your pet’s behavior, including their eating, drinking, sleeping, and bathroom habits.
If you notice any significant changes, consult your veterinarian to discuss diagnostic plans and treatment options.
