Preventive Care·18 April 2026·6 min read
Senior Pet Care: What Changes After Age 7
Twice-yearly check-ups, dietary shifts, joint care, and the bloodwork that changes lives.
When does "senior" begin?\n\nDogs: 7+ for most breeds, 5–6 for giants. Cats: 10+. Senior doesn't mean unwell — it means watching more carefully for the diseases that show up after middle age.\n\n## What changes\n\n### Twice-yearly wellness\nDisease in seniors moves faster. Six-month exams catch kidney disease, dental disease, masses, arthritis, cardiac changes earlier than annual visits.\n\n### Bloodwork that catches the silent ones\n- CBC + biochemistry — kidney, liver, electrolytes, glucose\n- T4 for cats (hyperthyroidism is common, treatable)\n- Urinalysis — kidney function, infection\n- Blood pressure — silent hypertension in cats\n\n### Diet\nSenior diets generally lower in phosphorus (kidney support), higher in joint nutrients (omega-3, glucosamine), often calorie-controlled.\n\n### Joints\nMost senior dogs have some arthritis. Joint supplements work better as prevention than cure. Ramps, non-slip mats, soft bedding go a long way.\n\n### Dental\nMore important than ever. Dental disease drives heart and kidney disease in seniors.\n\n### Cognitive decline\nReal in pets. Watch for night-time pacing, disorientation, changes in interaction. Treatable in many cases.\n\nBook a senior wellness check anytime — we'll set up a personalised plan.
Frequently asked
Twice a year for wellness, plus any time something seems off. Disease moves faster in seniors than younger dogs.
Often yes — they're formulated lower in phosphorus and higher in joint nutrients. Whether your specific pet needs one depends on their bloodwork and condition.
CBC, full biochemistry, urinalysis. For cats, add T4. These together catch kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, and most early organ issues.
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