Watching our pets grow older is a bittersweet experience. The longer they’re with us the more memories we develop and experiences we share, but it’s hard to watch them age. We owe it to them to address their needs and make sure they’re well cared for given all of the support they provided us over the years. Recognizing the signs that your pet is aging is crucial to providing the best care in their golden years. Here’s how to tell if your pet is entering their senior years, what to expect, and when to be concerned.
Understanding “Dog Years”
Have you heard the saying that “one dog year equals seven human years”? While this rule of thumb offers a rough idea, it doesn’t capture the differences among different breeds and sizes and doesn’t really apply to cats at all. Smaller dogs tend to live longer than larger dogs and, often, they age more slowly. Cats more closely “follow” small dogs. For example, a 10 year old small dog or cat is about 56 years old, but a giant breed dog like a Great Dane at 10 years old is 80 years old.
When is My Pet a Senior?
According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP), pets are considered senior at the last 25% of their expected life span. This depends on breed and size, but the following guidelines are generally used:
- Small dogs (under 20 pounds): 10 years old +
- Medium dogs (21-50 pounds): 7 years old +
- Large dogs (51-90 pounds): 6-7 years old +
- Giant dogs (over 90 pounds): 5 years old +
- Cats: 10 years old +
What is Normal Aging?
The age guidelines are based on when some expected changes are likely to be detected in your pet. Age is just a number, and we all undergo this process at different rates. However, we expect certain changes to occur in our pets. This includes:
- Changes in vision and hearing: Mild cloudiness in the eyes and some hearing loss are typical in dogs but less common in cats.
- Weight changes: While many pets maintain their appetite, their activity tends to decrease to gaining weight, but losing muscle mass is the most common outcome.
- Reduced mobility: Joint stiffness and slower movement are extremely common. In fact, more than 90% of cats over the age of 10 have arthritis. Older pets might take their time getting up and moving around or have difficulty accessing parts of the house.
- Behavioral changes: They may be less interested in playing or more anxious about new situations. Sleep cycles or house training may change.
- Skin and coat changes: You might notice gray hair, especially around the muzzle or face. Their coat might be duller or that may groom themselves less frequently. Sometimes, pets may overgroom an area that is painful.
Distinguishing Normal Aging from Disease
While many changes are part of normal aging, others might indicate underlying health issues. Here’s how to tell the difference:
Normal Aging:
- Gradual onset of symptoms. These may be only noticed by looking back at previous photos or videos or noted by someone who has not seen your pet in a while. Or, you may realize one day that things have changed without necessarily thinking about it beforehand.
- Mild changes in behavior and activity. If there is a dramatic change, something else may be going on.
Potential Health Issues:
- Sudden changes in behavior, weight, or appetite
- Severe mobility issues or pain
- Significant changes in drinking and urination
- Persistent coughing or difficulty breathing
If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian. Conditions like arthritis, diabetes, kidney disease, and dental disease are more common in older pets but can be managed effectively with proper care. The best prevention for many of these diseases is twice yearly senior wellness exams for your pet. Our pets cannot speak for themselves, but veterinary professionals can work with you to combine your knowledge of your pet with their expertise to determine what can be done to help keep your pet comfortable and happy.
Home Care for Your Senior Pet
Providing the best care for your senior pet involves a balanced diet, moderate exercise or enrichment, a consistent and predictable environment, and lots of love and attention. Adjusting their diet to accommodate lower energy levels and ensuring they stay active without overexertion can help maintain their health and prevent additional wear and tear on their joints. While some pets may perk up with a new companion, this may not always be the time to adopt a younger pet.
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Remember, every pet ages differently. Pay attention to their needs and changes, and always seek veterinary advice if you’re unsure whether a change is aging or a sign of something else. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure your loyal pet enjoys their senior years comfortably and happily.
Ken Brunson DVM, Board Member