How your pet’s needs change as they age

Have you noticed that your furry friend no longer jumps into your arms with the same enthusiasm in the morning? Or are they looking for quieter places, away from the hustle and bustle? Well… just like us, animals go through different stages of life, and old age brings with it many changes, both physical, emotional and behavioral.

What does it really mean for an animal to age?

The age at which a pet is considered senior varies significantly depending on the species, breed and size. As with humans, aging has no clear boundary, but is a gradual transition influenced by biological, genetic and lifestyle factors.

Large dogs, such as Labradors, German shepherds or Rottweilers, age faster than small dogs. They usually start to be considered elderly around the age of six or seven. In this phase, the first signs of joint wear, decreased energy and mobility may appear.

In contrast, small dogs such as the Bichon, Pomeranian or Yorkshire Terrier have a longer life expectancy and remain active for a longer period. In their case, the signs of old age begin to appear between the ages of eight and nine. However, even if they appear energetic, there may be subtle physiological changes that should not be overlooked.

Cats, especially those that live exclusively indoors, tend to have remarkable longevity and can appear young for a long time. They begin the transition to seniority between the ages of seven and ten. At this stage, there may be changes in behavior, sleep patterns, activity levels, and sometimes signs of chronic conditions that require close monitoring.

However, chronological age, i.e. the number of years since birth, is not always a good indicator of health. The animal’s behavior and the subtle signals it sends are often more important than the age indicated in the medical record. For example, an eight-year-old dog may seem as energetic and responsive as when he was young, while another of the same age may show difficulty walking, restless sleeping, or a lack of interest in favorite activities.

This is because each animal ages at its own rate and genetics, diet, physical activity and the environment in which it lives contribute significantly to this process. This is why it is important that treatment is not based only on age, but also on careful observation, constant dialogue with the veterinarian and adaptation of the daily routine to the real needs of the animal.

What are the physical changes with aging

As pets age, they begin to experience major physical changes that can significantly impact their comfort and quality of life. These changes are not always evident from the beginning, but evolve gradually and require attention and adaptation from owners.

Reduced mobility

One of the most common problems seen in older pets is reduced mobility. Arthritis, joint pain or muscle stiffness can occur as dogs and cats age, affecting their ability to move. Dogs may begin to avoid climbing stairs, refuse longer walks, or have a visibly stiff or sluggish gait. In the case of cats, the changes are more subtle: they jump less often, avoid high surfaces and prefer more easily accessible places.

To give it support, it is recommended to invest in a mattress that helps reduce pressure on the joints. It is also useful to place non-slip mats in areas where the floor is slippery. If the animal has difficulty getting up or down, special ramps or steps can be used. Last but not least, it is important that these problems are monitored through periodic veterinary checks, which can identify and treat joint pain in time.

Dental problems

Oral health is often overlooked, even though more than 80% of dogs and cats develop dental disease by age three. As the pet ages, these problems can become more serious and painful. Tartar, inflammation of the gums, bad breath and difficulty chewing are common symptoms. Over time, these conditions can lead to decreased appetite, weight loss, or even infections that affect the entire body.

To prevent and manage these problems, we recommend regular brushing with pet toothpaste, using veterinary-approved dental products, and professional scaling when necessary.

Accelerated metabolism

Another important physiological change is the slowing of metabolism. An elderly animal no longer has the same caloric needs as a young animal and if the diet remains unchanged, imbalances can occur. In some cases, animals begin to pile on extra pounds, especially if physical activity is reduced.

To support the metabolism in a balanced way, it is essential to switch to a feed specially formulated for elderly animals, which has an adequate content of proteins, fats and fibre. Portions should also be adjusted based on activity level, and meals can be broken into several smaller portions throughout the day.

What are the behavioral changes with aging

Aging not only affects the animal’s body, but also its behavior. These changes may reflect emotional state, comfort level, and possible neurological or hormonal changes. Often new or unusual behaviors can be the first signs that the animal is entering a different phase of life and has new and more complex needs.

sleep

One of the first things to change is sleep. Older pets tend to sleep more, sometimes 16 to 18 hours a day. However, sleep can become fragmented or restless, which affects both the general condition of the pet and the pace of life of the family. These behaviors can signal discomfort, pain, anxiety, or even neurological conditions. It’s important to create a peaceful sleep routine with quiet activities before bed and a secluded, comfortable, well-soundproof sleeping space.

Increased anxiety and attachment to the owner

As they age, some animals become more emotionally dependent on human presence. They may exhibit separation anxiety, restlessness when the owner is away, or behaviors that indicate insecurity, such as crying, unusual vocalizations, or a tendency to constantly follow family members around the house.

This increased need for contact may be the result of a decrease in the ability to adapt, a loss of senses or the emergence of a general state of vulnerability. To help them, we recommend the use of interactive toys to keep their attention in the owner’s absence, gentle and constant interactions, as well as the possible administration of some calming supplements, as indicated by the veterinarian.

Confusion

As people age, signs of a condition known as cognitive dysfunction syndrome, the animal equivalent of Alzheimer’s disease, may appear. The symptoms are not easy to notice at first, but they progress slowly and can significantly affect the animal’s life and its relationship with the environment.

Among the most frequent manifestations are lack of reaction to previously well-known commands, loss of orientation in familiar places, forgetting the location of water or food bowls, confusion about where to sleep or walking without a clear purpose.

To support an animal going through such changes, it is essential to maintain a clear and consistent daily routine. It recommends avoiding moving furniture or sudden changes in the living environment, which can exacerbate confusion. At the same time, the introduction into the diet, subject to veterinary approval, of some antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids and other supplements with a neuroprotective role can slow down the progression of the syndrome and keep cognitive functions active for longer.

Daily care of a senior animal

As the animal ages, the daily care routine must be adapted responsibly, with more gentleness, attention and patience. Details that may have seemed insignificant in your youth now take on fundamental importance in maintaining comfort and well-being.

First of all, regular brushing becomes fundamental, especially in the case of animals that are no longer able to fend for themselves due to joint stiffness or fatigue. The fur can become matted or dry and brushing helps not only on a hygienic level, but also to stimulate circulation and strengthen the relationship between animal and owner.

It’s also important regular nail trimming . With reduced activity levels, the claws stop sharpening naturally and can become too long, bend and cause discomfort or even pain when walking. The same attention should be paid eye and ear hygiene, because older pets are more susceptible to eye or ear infections, which can develop quickly if not noticed early.

Even though the energy isn’t that high anymore, play remains an important component in the life of the elderly animal. It is advisable to opt for soft toys, suitable for physical needs, and for mental stimulation activities, carried out in short but frequent sessions. They help maintain a healthy mental tone and reduce the risk of depressive or anxious behavior.

Besides all these practical aspects, perhaps the most important thing is maintaining the emotional connection. Even if the animal no longer shows the enthusiasm it once did, the affection and desire for closeness remain unchanged. An older dog may not run to the door when you come home and may not fetch the ball as often, but the gentle gaze, attachment and loyalty do not fade with age.

This stage of life is, for many owners, a time of deep reflection and reconnection. The emotional support offered to the animal, the constant care and adaptation to its changing needs is not only a duty, but also an act of mature love, which strengthens the relationship built over the years.

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