Senior pet care

As pets grow older, their needs change and often in subtle ways that can be easy to miss at home. Our team takes a proactive, quality-of-life-focused approach to senior pet care, helping dogs and cats stay comfortable, active, and healthy for as long as possible.

Our veterinarians recommend six-monthly senior health checks, along with targeted blood and urine testing, to detect early signs of disease before your pet shows symptoms. Early intervention allows us to manage conditions sooner, reduce discomfort, and support a longer, happier life.

Why senior pets need more frequent health checks

Dogs and cats age much faster than humans. By the time your pet reaches their senior years, changes in their organs, joints, and metabolism can progress quickly.

Six-monthly health checks help us:

• Track changes in weight, mobility, appetite, and behaviour
• Detect early signs of kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, thyroid disease, and other age-related conditions
• Monitor heart health, dental disease, and blood pressure
• Adjust diet, exercise, and medication plans as your pet’s needs evolve

These visits are also an opportunity to discuss any new concerns you’ve noticed at home, as even small changes can be meaningful in older pets.

Senior dog health checks

Common age‑related conditions in senior dogs

As dogs age, they become more prone to conditions such as arthritis, dental disease, heart disease, kidney disease, cognitive decline, and hormonal disorders like Cushing’s or hypothyroidism. Many of these develop gradually, making regular monitoring essential.

What your dog’s senior check‑up includes

During a senior dog health check, your vet may assess:

• Mobility, joint health, and signs of pain
• Heart and lung function
• Dental health
• Weight and muscle condition
• Skin, coat, and any new lumps
• Behavioural or cognitive changes
• Blood and urine tests to screen for early disease

These assessments help us tailor a care plan that supports your dog’s comfort and wellbeing as they age.

Senior cat health checks

Subtle signs of illness in older cats

Cats are experts at hiding discomfort. Age-related conditions such as kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, arthritis, dental disease, and high blood pressure often progress silently until they are advanced.

What your cat’s senior check-up includes

A senior cat health check may involve:

• Weight and body condition monitoring
• Mobility and joint assessment
• Heart and thyroid evaluation
• Dental examination
• Blood pressure measurement
• Blood and urine testing to detect early kidney or metabolic disease

Regular checks help us identify changes early and keep your cat comfortable and thriving.

Read our full guide to senior pet health checks here.

Blood and urine testing for senior pets

Routine blood and urine tests are among the most effective ways to identify early-stage disease, often before symptoms appear.

These tests help us assess:

• Kidney and liver function
• Blood sugar and thyroid levels
• Hydration and electrolyte balance
• Red and white blood cell counts
• Urinary tract health

Early detection means we can begin treatment or monitoring sooner, improving long-term outcomes and comfort for your furry friend.

Learn about our pathology services here.

 

Managing arthritis in senior pets

Arthritis is one of the most common conditions affecting older dogs and cats. Many pets hide their discomfort, so you may not realise they are in pain.

Early management can significantly improve mobility and quality of life. Treatment may include:

• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Joint supplements
• Weight management
• Gentle exercise plans
• Supportive bedding and home modifications

 

Monitoring lumps and bumps

New lumps or changes in existing ones should always be checked by your vet. While many lumps are benign, some require monitoring or removal.

During a senior health check, your vet will:

• Examine any lumps
• Recommend fine needle aspiration or biopsy if needed
• Track changes over time
• Discuss treatment options

Early assessment helps ensure the best possible outcome.

 

Supporting your pet’s comfort and wellbeing

Senior pets often benefit from small adjustments that make daily life easier, such as:

• Softer bedding
• Ramps or steps
• Non-slip flooring
• More frequent toileting opportunities
• Diets tailored for senior health

Your vet can guide you on the best options for your pet’s age, breed, and health status.

 

When to book a senior health check

We recommend booking a senior health check if your dog or cat is:

• 7 years or older (for most breeds)
• 5 years or older for large and giant‑breed dogs

You should also book sooner if you notice:

• Changes in appetite or thirst
• Weight loss or gain
• Reduced mobility or stiffness
• New lumps
• Behaviour changes
• Increased sleeping
• Difficulty jumping, climbing, or using stairs

Book a senior pet health check

Proactive care helps your pet stay comfortable, active, and happy throughout their senior years. We recommend booking an extended consult with our team in North Melbourne or Campbellfield to gently assess your senior pet’s health and make a tailored plan for their needs at this stage of life. Book online here now.