Senior Pet Clinics

When is My Pet a Senior?

Pets age at different rates depending on their species, breed, and size. As a general guide:

Senior pets benefit from more frequent health checks to catch problems early, when they are often easier and cheaper to treat.

• Cats: from around 8 years old

• Small dogs: from around 8–10 years old

• Medium dogs: from around 7–8 years old

• Large/giant breed dogs: from around 5–6 years old

Common Age-Related Conditions

Conditions we commonly see and manage in older pets include:

• Arthritis — stiffness, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, slowing down on walks

• Kidney disease — increased thirst and urination, weight loss

• Dental disease — bad breath, difficulty eating, drooling

• Hyperthyroidism (cats) — weight loss despite increased appetite, hyperactivity

• Heart disease — coughing, exercise intolerance, lethargy

• Diabetes — increased thirst, urination, and appetite

• Cognitive dysfunction — confusion, disorientation, changes in sleep patterns

• Cancer — lumps, weight loss, changes in behaviour

What Our Senior Pet Clinic Includes

Our senior pet health checks are comprehensive assessments that typically include:

• A full physical examination

• Weight and body condition assessment

• Blood pressure measurement

• Blood tests to check kidney function, liver function, thyroid levels, and blood cell counts

• Urinalysis

• Discussion of any changes you've noticed at home

• Advice on nutrition, exercise, and supplements for older pets

Supporting Your Senior Pet

There are many things you can do to help your older pet stay comfortable and happy:

• Keep them at a healthy weight — excess weight worsens arthritis and other conditions

• Provide soft, supportive bedding

• Use ramps or steps to help them access favourite spots

• Maintain gentle, regular exercise

• Consider a senior-specific diet

• Schedule regular veterinary check-ups (we recommend every 6 months for senior pets)