Age 7 is a bit of a magic number for pets. It signals the definitive end of puppy or kitten-hood and young adulthood, and signifies a new stage in life: the wisdom stage. But with this wisdom comes additional care needs that we pet parents must pay attention to.
Here’s what the team at Sky Canyon Animal Hospital wants you to know about caring for senior pets after age 7.
What Changes After Age 7?
Not every pet changes at the same rate. But in general, many veterinarians—ourselves included—consider pets to enter their senior years at around age seven.
As pets grow older, their metabolism slows down. Their muscle mass can decrease, especially if they don’t get enough exercise. Their immune systems might not respond with as much vigor as they once did.
These changes can increase your pet’s risk of chronic conditions, from arthritis and dental disease to diabetes and kidney disease.
A change in behavior is usually the first sign that something is off kilter with your pet. You might notice that your dog seems to be hesitating to jump up onto the couch for evening cuddles. Or, your cat might be sleeping more than usual.
Weight gain (or loss), an increase in thirst or water consumption, stiffness after resting, or changes in appetite are all signals that your aging pet’s care might need adjustments.
Senior Dog Care Tips
Senior dog care focuses on three core areas: mobility, weight management, and routine health screening.
Joint health becomes especially important as your pup’s cartilage naturally wears down over time. Maintaining a healthy body weight is one of the best ways to support your older dog’s health. This is because any excess weight increases stress on your pet’s joints and heart.
To help monitor any chronic conditions, we typically recommend twice-yearly wellness exams for senior dogs. Bloodwork and urine testing can help us spot organ changes early, often before visible symptoms of an illness or diseases show up.
And with early intervention in the form of medications, dietary adjustments, or therapies, your aging dog can enjoy his golden years in comfort.
Senior Cat Care Tips
Cats excel at hiding their discomfort, which means you’ve got to keep an eagle eye on your kitty as she approaches age 7. Common concerns in older cat health include kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, dental disease, and arthritis.
Because cats, unlike dogs, don’t often show obvious signs of limping when they have arthritis, you must keep an eye out for more subtle signs. Like a reduction in grooming habits, for instance, or a reluctance to jump onto a favorite perch.
Senior wellness exams for cats usually include lab screenings, blood pressure checks, and physical exams. With early detection of any chronic conditions, your senior kitty can thrive in her later years.
Building a Senior Pet Care Plan
Remember this: aging isn’t a disease. It does put your pet at risk of developing certain conditions, but it is a natural part of animal life.
The best thing you can do for your pet at this stage in life is feed her nutritious food, give her plenty of attention, and take her out to exercise every day. Pair this regimen with regular veterinary care and you have a recipe for a happy, healthy stretch of years with your aging pet.
The experienced team at Sky Canyon Animal Hospital is here to help. Call us at (951) 461-4100 to schedule an appointment today!