1. Early Detection of Age-Related Conditions

One of the most critical reasons to maintain regular vet visits is to identify signs of disease or discomfort before they become advanced. Older pets are more prone to chronic illnesses, many of which can progress silently.

Conditions such as:

• Arthritis
• Dental disease
• Kidney or liver disease
• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Tumours or lumps

… often begin with very subtle symptoms that may go unnoticed until the disease is in an advanced stage. Early detection through wellness screenings and exams allows us to start treatment earlier, often resulting in better outcomes and a longer, more comfortable life for your pet.

 

2. Tailored Wellness and Nutritional Advice

Personalised nutrition is a cornerstone of senior pet care and can greatly impact your pet’s wellbeing. Aging affects how your pet’s body absorbs nutrients, maintains weight and metabolises food; what they thrived on as a young adult may no longer be appropriate in their senior years. During routine visits, we assess your pet’s body condition, diet and overall health to provide updated nutritional advice.

We may recommend:

• Specialised senior pet foods with added nutrients
• Adjusted feeding plans for weight management
• Supplements to support joint health, heart health or cognitive function
• Transitioning to softer or easier-to-digest foods

 

3. Pain Management and Improved Comfort

Senior pets often experience chronic pain, particularly from conditions like arthritis or dental disease. Because animals tend to mask their discomfort, these issues can go unnoticed for months or even years.

Our vets are trained to spot subtle signs of pain, including:

• Reluctance to jump or go for walks
• Difficulty getting up or lying down
• Irritability or withdrawal
• Limping or changes in gait
• Discomfort chewing and eating

Through a combination of medication, lifestyle changes and complementary therapies, we can help manage your pet’s pain and keep them comfortable well into their senior years.

 

4. Monitoring Behaviour and Cognitive Function

As pets age, they may begin to experience cognitive decline, similar to dementia in humans. This can be distressing for both the pet and their owner, but there are ways to slow its progression and improve quality of life.

Common signs include:

• Disorientation (getting lost in familiar places)
• Changes in sleep-wake cycles
• Unusual vocalisation
• Accidents in the house or forgetting training

Routine veterinary visits allow us to track changes in behaviour over time. We can provide guidance on mental stimulation, dietary support, and medications that may help slow cognitive decline.

 

5. Dental Health Checks

Keeping your pet’s mouth healthy helps prevent systemic illness and ensures they can continue eating comfortably.

Dental disease is one of the most underdiagnosed issues in senior pets and it can have serious consequences. Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and affect major organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver. Once issues are identified, however, they can be relatively straightforward to treat.

During a dental check, we will:

• Examine around your pet’s face, neck and mouth for swellings and other abnormalitites
• Check your pet’s mouth for signs of disease
• Look for loose, broken or worn teeth
• Assess for painful infections or abscesses
• Recommend dental cleaning or at-home care strategies

 

What to Expect During a Senior Health Consult

A senior wellness exam is more thorough than a standard check-up. It is designed to get a complete picture of your pet’s health and catch any concerns early. These visits give us a clear understanding of how your pet is aging and what steps we can take to maintain or improve their health.

A typical visit may include:

• Full physical exam from nose to tail
• Assessment of skin, coat, ears, eyes, nose and mouth
• Weight check and body condition scoring
• Joint and mobility evaluation
• Blood pressure monitoring
• Bloodwork to assess organ function (liver, kidney, thyroid)
• Urinalysis for early detection of kidney or bladder issues
• Review of diet, supplements, medications and lifestyle

 

Tips for Supporting Your Senior Pet at Home

While veterinary care is vital, there are many things you can do at home to keep your senior pet thriving.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Good nutrition is foundational to longevity. Senior pets often need:

• Lower-calorie diets to avoid weight gain
• Added fibre for digestive support
• Antioxidants for immune health
• Omega-3s and glucosamine for joints

Work with your vet to select the most appropriate food and consider switching to a prescription or veterinary-recommended formula.

Encourage Gentle Exercise

Staying active helps prevent muscle loss, improves circulation and supports joint health. However, senior pets may not tolerate high-impact activities.

Some alternatives to try include short, frequent walks; swimming or hydrotherapy; and low-impact games or indoor enrichment.

Provide a Comfortable Environment

Making a few simple adjustments at home can drastically improve your senior pet’s daily comfort:

• Orthopedic beds to support aching joints
• Ramps or stairs to access furniture or cars
• Non-slip mats on slippery floors
• Heated pads or blankets in colder months

These modifications help prevent injury and make movement easier.

Monitor Behavioural Changes

Keep an eye out for changes that might indicate a developing issue:

• Increased drinking or urination
• Loss of appetite or weight changes
• New lumps or bumps
• Restlessness, confusion or aggression

Early intervention often leads to better outcomes. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if something doesn’t seem right.

The Emotional Bond: Caring for Them as They Age

There’s something incredibly special about the bond we share with our senior pets. They’ve been with us through thick and thin, offering unconditional love and companionship. As they grow older, they often become more emotionally in tune with us, and their care becomes even more rewarding.

Caring for a senior pet requires patience, attention and compassion. It’s an opportunity to give back the love they’ve given us over the years. With regular vet visits and the right support, you can help your pet enjoy this life stage with dignity, comfort, and joy.

Book a Senior Pet Health Check at Ark Vet

If your pet is approaching or already in their senior years, now is the perfect time to book a senior health consult. At the Ark Veterinary Hospital, we take the time to understand your pet’s unique needs and create a personalised plan for their ongoing care.

Call us today on 02 9416 1300 or book online to schedule your senior health check.