The golden years can be a wonderful stage of life for your furry friend, but they also bring changes that warrant extra attention. At Pendleton Veterinary Clinic, many families are surprised to learn how gradually age-related health concerns can develop. Good senior pet care focuses on identifying subtle changes early so dogs and cats can remain comfortable, active, and engaged in daily life for as long as possible.

Just like people, every pet ages in their own unique way. Some pups and kitties stay playful and spry well into their golden years, while others start showing signs of slowing down a bit sooner. Knowing what to watch for can help you decide when it’s time to bring your senior dog in for a wellness check, or chat with us about changes in your senior cat. Here are seven signs that deserve a spot on your radar. An Anderson, IN vet weighs in on this below.

How Do You Know When a Pet Is Considered a Senior?

Our pets age a lot faster than we do, but when they officially become ‘seniors’ depends on their species, breed, and size.

Many dogs enter their senior years around 7 years of age, although larger breeds may show age-related changes earlier. Cats are often considered seniors around ten years of age.

Regular vet visits are extra important at this stage, since some age-related issues like to fly under the radar before showing any obvious signs.

Sign #1: Changes in Mobility

One of the first things you might notice as your pet gets older is a change in how they move around.

Your canine companion may seem slower getting up from bed, hesitate before climbing stairs, or struggle to jump into the car. Your feline friend may stop jumping onto favorite windowsills or furniture.

What Mobility Changes Can Indicate

Mobility changes may be associated with several issues, such as:

• Arthritis
• Joint inflammation
• Muscle loss
• Orthopedic conditions
• Neurological concerns

A little slowing down is normal as pets age, but if you notice big changes in how your furry friend moves, it’s time for a vet visit.

Catching these changes early means we can help keep your pet comfy and enjoy life to the fullest.

Sign #2: Weight Changes

Unexpected weight gain or weight loss should never be dismissed as a normal part of aging.

Changes on the scale can give us important clues about what’s going on with your pet’s health.

Weight Loss May Signal Health Concerns

Unexplained weight loss may be associated with a variety of medical problems, including:

• Dental disease
• Digestive disorders
• Kidney disease
• Hormonal conditions
• Certain chronic illnesses

Extra pounds can be tough on aging joints and make it harder for your pet to get around.

That’s why regular weigh-ins are a key part of senior pet care here in Anderson.

Sign #3: Increased Drinking or Urination

If you notice your pet drinking more water or making more bathroom trips, it’s a good idea to check in with your vet.

Many health issues in older pets can affect how much they drink and how often they need to go out.

Symptoms Worth Monitoring

You may notice:

• Drinking more water than usual
• More frequent urination
• Accidents in the house
• Larger urine clumps in the litter box
• Increased requests to go outside

These changes can sometimes be associated with kidney disease, hormonal disorders, urinary tract conditions, or other health concerns.

The sooner we check things out, the sooner we can help your pet feel better.

Sign #4: Changes in Appetite

A healthy appetite is usually a good sign your pet is feeling well.

When appetite changes significantly, it may signal an underlying issue.

Appetite Changes Can Include

• Eating less than normal
• Increased hunger
• Difficulty chewing
• Dropping food
• Selective eating

Dental disease is a big reason why older pets might have trouble eating.

Cats are experts at hiding when they’re not feeling their best, so even small changes in appetite are worth keeping an eye on.

Sign #5: Behavioral Changes

Changes in behavior are sometimes the first clue that your pet’s health is shifting as they get older.

Your pet’s personality may remain the same, but their behavior may begin to shift in noticeable ways.

Senior Cat Health Changes and Senior Dog Behaviors

Watch for:

• Increased confusion
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Nighttime restlessness
• Increased vocalization
• Withdrawal from family activities
• Anxiety
• Reduced interest in play

These changes may result from discomfort, sensory decline, cognitive changes, or medical conditions.

A visit to your vet can help determine whether there’s a medical reason for these changes.

Sign #6: Changes in Vision or Hearing. Many older pets gradually lose some of their hearing or vision.

Because these changes often develop slowly, they can be difficult to recognize at first.

Signs of Vision Changes

You may notice:

• Bumping into objects
• Difficulty navigating unfamiliar spaces
• Hesitation in dim lighting
• Startling more easily

• Signs of Hearing Loss

• Some pets may:
• Sleep more deeply
• Fail to respond when called
• React less to familiar sounds
• Becoming startled when approached

Some loss of hearing or vision is normal with age, but it’s still important to have your vet check for anything that can be treated.

Sign #7: New Lumps, Bumps, or Skin Changes

As pets age, lumps and bumps become increasingly common.

Not every lump is dangerous, but every new lump deserves veterinary evaluation.

What Should Be Checked?

Schedule an examination if you notice:

• New growths
• Changes in existing lumps
• Skin discoloration
• Non-healing sores
• Areas of hair loss

Getting things checked early lets your vet decide if more tests are needed. Keeping an eye on your pet’s skin is an important part of their regular senior check-ups.

Why Senior Wellness Exams Matter

Many age-related diseases develop gradually.

Our pets can’t tell us when something’s wrong, so by the time we see clear symptoms, things might already be pretty far along.

A senior dog wellness exam helps identify subtle concerns before they become more serious.

What Happens During a Senior Wellness Visit?

A senior wellness examination may include:

• Comprehensive physical examination
• Weight evaluation
• Mobility assessment
• Dental evaluation
• Discussion of behavioral changes
• Review of eating and drinking habits

Your veterinarian may also recommend additional screening tests based on your pet’s age and medical history.

These visits give us a great snapshot of your pet’s overall health.

Helping Your Senior Pet Thrive at Home

A few small changes at home can help your older pet stay comfy and confident.

Senior pets often appreciate predictable routines and supportive environments.

Simple Ways to Support Older Pets

• Consider:
• Providing soft bedding
• Using rugs on slippery floors
• Keeping food and water accessible
• Offering gentle exercise opportunities
• Monitoring weight regularly

These changes can make daily life easier for aging dogs and cats.

Cats and Dogs Age Differently

Dogs and cats might share some age-related issues, but they often show them differently.

Cats are especially good at hiding when they’re not feeling well, so it’s important to watch for even small changes in their behavior.

Dogs, on the other hand, are more likely to show you when they’re having trouble getting around.

Spotting these species-specific changes early can help you get your pet the care they need, right when they need it.

Early Detection Makes a Difference

Senior pet care isn’t just about treating illness. It’s about helping your furry friend stay comfortable, mobile, and happy as they get older.

Regular check-ups help your vet spot any issues early and develop a care plan that’s just right for your pet.

Whether your furry bestie is just starting their senior years or is already a wise old soul, regular wellness care is one of the best things you can do for their health.

You can learn more about adopting a senior dog from PetMD. Catster has a piece on adopting a senior cat. 

FAQ

What age is considered senior for dogs and cats?

Most dogs are considered seniors around seven years of age, although larger breeds may age more quickly. Cats are often considered seniors around ten years of age. Your veterinarian can help determine when age-related screenings and senior wellness care should become a greater focus.

Because pets age at different rates, recommendations may vary based on breed, size, health history, and lifestyle.

How often should senior pets see a veterinarian?

Many senior pets benefit from veterinary wellness examinations at least twice per year. More frequent visits allow veterinarians to monitor age-related changes and identify health concerns before they become more advanced.

Regular examinations are especially valuable because pets often hide signs of illness until conditions become more serious.

What are the most common aging pet symptoms to watch?

Common aging-related pet symptoms include changes in mobility, weight loss, increased thirst, appetite changes, behavioral changes, sensory decline, and new lumps or bumps. These signs may indicate age-related health conditions that deserve veterinary evaluation.

Early recognition often provides more opportunities for successful management and ongoing comfort.

Why are senior wellness exams important?

Senior wellness exams help identify health concerns before obvious symptoms develop. These visits allow veterinarians to monitor physical changes, evaluate mobility, assess overall health, and recommend appropriate screenings for aging pets.

Routine exams are one of the most effective ways to support long-term quality of life.

Do cats show aging differently than dogs?

Yes, cats often display age-related changes more subtly than dogs. Senior cat health changes may include altered grooming habits, increased sleeping, changes in appetite, or reduced activity rather than obvious signs of discomfort.

Because cats are skilled at hiding illness, regular veterinary care is particularly important as they age.

Schedule a Senior Wellness Visit at Our Anderson, IN Veterinary Clinic

Aging brings changes, but many senior pets continue enjoying happy, active lives with proper veterinary care. At Pendleton Veterinary Clinic, our veterinarians provide senior pet care for aging dogs and cats, including senior dog wellness exams, evaluations for senior cat health changes, and personalized recommendations based on your pet’s needs. If you have noticed signs of aging in your pet or are looking for trusted vet care for older pets near Anderson, schedule a wellness visit today. If you are searching online for a compassionate “vet near me,” our veterinary clinic is here to help your senior companion enjoy their golden years comfortably.

This blog is intended for educational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized medical advice, diagnosis, treatment recommendations, and ongoing healthcare decisions for your pet.

Do you want to learn more about our Pendleton, IN, animal hospital? Our Service page is a great place to start. Here you’ll find overviews of all the top-notch veterinary care services we offer. These range from basics, such as Wellness and Vaccinations, to specialized care such as Laser Therapy, Critical Care, and more.