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signs of aging in dogs and cats
What’s normal and what’s not when it comes to senior dogs and cats
Wondering what's normal when your pet gets older? Recognize common signs of aging in dogs and cats — and learn when to visit the vet.
Common outward signs of aging in dogs and cats
- Graying and thinning fur
- Declining eyesight
- Diminished hearing
Behavioral and mental changes in senior dogs and cats (possibly normal!)
- Having accidents in the house
- Decreased interaction with humans
- Increased aggression
- Increased barking/meowing
- Mobility issues
- Changes in sleep pattern
- Avoiding running or jumping
Concerning signs of old age in dogs and cats (not normal!)
- Abdominal swelling
- Decreased appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Inability to control urination or defecation
- Seizures
- Bleeding gums
- Labored breathing
- Lumps, bumps, or other skin issues
- Diarrhea and/or vomiting
Normal signs of old age
Common signs of aging in dogs and cats include gray, thinning hair, diminished hearing, and declining eyesight. Like for humans, these can all be normal parts of the aging process and are typically nothing to worry about, although some senior pets never experience these changes.
What is possibly normal
Several health issues can affect older pets and bring changes to their behavior and activity levels. These include arthritis and cognitive dysfunction.
Symptoms of arthritis and cognitive dysfunction include having accidents in the house, less interaction with humans, an increase in aggression, an increase in barking or meowing, mobility issues, changes in sleep, poor problem solving, avoiding running or jumping, or favoring a leg.
However, these symptoms can also be attributed to concerns that are common in older dogs and cats. That’s why it’s important to bring seniors to the vet for exams twice a year. Your vet will be able to help assess if there’s a serious underlying health condition causing your pet’s symptoms.
When to see the vet about your senior pet's signs of aging
If your pet suddenly loses weight or their appetite, schedule a vet visit immediately. Increased aggression or unusual behavior warrants a veterinary check-up as well. Additional things to look out for are abdominal swelling, incontinence, seizures, bleeding gums, labored breathing, lumps and bumps, prolonged diarrhea and/or vomiting, and other skin issues.
Unfortunately, cancer is accountable for nearly half of dog deaths and a third of cat deaths. Other common medical conditions that affect seniors include heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and liver disease. We want to catch disease early so we can help your senior pet maintain good health. Some things are unpreventable, but there are often steps you can take to help reduce the progression. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a vet if you have cancer.
When should I be concerned about my senior dog? How do I know if my cat is nearing the end of life?
These issues can be super tough to determine. Using a tool called a quality of life scale, a form of objective journaling, can help. Regularly record observations of your pet’s appetite, breathing, care, demeanor, energy, and family interactions to see if their symptoms are improving or declining. This can help you and your vet evaluate your pet’s condition and create a baseline for their healthcare needs.
For more info, as well as a downloadable charting worksheet, visit our page on saying goodbye
Custom care that grows with your pet
You can save more than 30% by bundling your pet’s preventive care with an Optimum Wellness Plan. On top of comprehensive exams, vaccinations, and diagnostic testing, these convenient packages also include unlimited office visits, 24/7 Pet Chat™, discounts on most Banfield products, and more.
Our NEW Senior Care Optimum Wellness Plan includes our most in-depth diagnostic testing yet. This helps us detect changes in organ function and overall physical health, so that we can begin any recommended treatment as soon as possible.
Senior Care
Designed to help detect early signs of age-related illness.
This plan combines essential services like vaccinations and exams with in-depth diagnostic testing.
See what’s included in Senior Care
Senior Care Plus
Designed to help detect early signs of age-related illness and support additional dental needs.
This plan includes all the services in our Senior Care plan plus a dental cleaning.
See what’s included in Senior Care Plus
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