Aging in pets happens much more quickly than in humans. Effects of aging that may not appear for us until our 50s or 60s often start as early as 5 or 6 years old in dogs and cats—sooner for larger breeds. Common age-related conditions include arthritis, organ dysfunction (like liver and kidney disease), high blood pressure, and hormonal issues such as diabetes and thyroid disorders.
While we can’t stop the aging process, proactive screening is key to catching these issues early. Early detection and intervention can enhance both the quality and longevity of your pet’s life. We recommend annual monitoring of blood, urine, and blood pressure to establish baseline values, allowing us to identify changes before they develop into clinical symptoms. These tests also help guide our veterinarians in choosing the most appropriate treatment options for your pet.
Senior pets include cats and toy breed dogs over 8 years old, medium-sized dogs (30-60 lbs) over 7 years, large breeds (60-100 lbs) over 6 years, and giant breeds (over 100 lbs) over 5 years. Additionally, obesity can heighten the risk of health issues as pets age, so if your pet is overweight, we suggest starting senior wellness screenings one to two years earlier than the recommended age guidelines. Your pet’s health is our priority—let’s work together to keep them happy and thriving!