Top 5 Health Issues in Senior Pets

As our beloved pets age, they become more prone to certain health conditions that can significantly impact their quality of life. Just like humans, early detection and management of these health issues can help senior pets live longer, healthier lives. 

As we continue our spotlight on senior pets, in this article, we will outline the top five health problems commonly seen in senior cats and dogs, and why regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for spotting them early.

1. Arthritis

One of the most common health issues affecting senior pets is arthritis, a progressive condition characterised by the inflammation of joints. This leads to stiffness, pain, and difficulty in movement, which can severely impact a pet’s quality of life if left unmanaged. 

Signs of arthritis in your pet may include:

• Difficulty getting up or lying down

• Reluctance to climb stairs or jump

• Limping or favouring one leg

• Reduced activity levels

While arthritis cannot be cured, early detection allows for effective pain management strategies, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), joint supplements like glucosamine, weight management, and even physical therapy or acupuncture. 

Managing your pet’s weight is especially crucial in slowing the progression of arthritis, as excess weight puts additional strain on their joints.

2. Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is particularly prevalent in older cats but can also affect senior dogs. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste from the bloodstream and balancing fluids in the body. 

When kidney function declines, waste products build up, leading to various symptoms such as:

• Increased thirst and urination

• Weight loss

• Vomiting

• Decreased appetite

• Lethargy

Kidney disease is often progressive and can’t be reversed, but early detection through blood and urine tests can allow your veterinarian to slow its progression with dietary changes, medications, and hydration support. Prescription renal diets low in phosphorus and protein are typically recommended to reduce the burden on the kidneys, alongside medications that help manage secondary conditions like high blood pressure.

3. Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is another health issue that senior pets, particularly overweight ones, are prone to. Diabetes occurs when the body is unable to regulate blood sugar levels due to either a lack of insulin or the body’s resistance to insulin. 

Left untreated, diabetes can lead to complications such as cataracts, kidney damage, and nerve dysfunction. Symptoms include:

• Increased thirst and urination

• Weight loss despite an increased appetite

• Lethargy

• Cloudy eyes (in dogs)

Early diagnosis and treatment are critical. With appropriate management, which typically includes insulin therapy, dietary changes, and close monitoring, diabetic pets can live full and happy lives. Regular vet check-ups and home blood glucose monitoring are vital to ensuring that your pet’s diabetes remains well-controlled.

4. Heart Disease

Heart disease is a leading cause of illness and death in senior pets, particularly dogs, but it also affects older cats. Congestive heart failure (CHF) is the most common form, which occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to fluid accumulation in the lungs and abdomen.

Symptoms can be subtle in the early stages, making early detection key. Signs include:

• Coughing, especially at night

• Difficulty breathing

• Fatigue or reluctance to exercise

• Swelling in the abdomen

Heart disease can often be managed with medications such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or beta-blockers to help the heart pump more effectively and reduce fluid build-up. Regular veterinary check-ups, including auscultation (listening to the heart), X-rays, and echocardiograms, can help catch early signs of heart disease, enabling your vet to start treatment before the condition worsens.

5. Dental Issues

Dental disease is one of the most overlooked health problems in senior pets. Poor dental hygiene can lead to gum disease (gingivitis), tooth decay, and even systemic infections that affect major organs such as the kidneys and heart. Plaque and tartar build-up are common in older pets, and if left untreated, this can cause:

• Bad breath

• Drooling

• Difficulty chewing or reluctance to eat

• Swollen or bleeding gums

Regular dental care is essential to prevent these problems. In addition to home care such as brushing your pet’s teeth, professional dental cleanings under anaesthesia are recommended to remove tartar and address any underlying issues before they lead to tooth loss or more severe complications.

The Importance of Early Detection

Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to detect and manage these common senior pet health issues. Many of these conditions, especially kidney disease, heart disease, and diabetes, can progress silently, with symptoms only becoming noticeable once the disease is well advanced. 

By scheduling wellness exams every six months for your senior pet, which may include blood tests, urine analysis, and imaging like X-rays or ultrasounds, veterinarians can catch subtle changes in your pet’s health before they escalate into more serious problems.

At these check-ups, your vet can also assess your pet’s weight, mobility, and overall well-being, ensuring that any necessary dietary, lifestyle, or medical interventions are made promptly. Early intervention is key to maintaining your pet’s quality of life and prolonging their golden years.

By staying informed about these common health issues and taking your senior pet for regular veterinary check-ups, you can help them live a happier, healthier life. Whether it’s managing arthritis pain, catching kidney disease early, or staying on top of dental health, proactive care can make all the difference. Don’t wait until symptoms become severe—book your senior pet’s wellness exam today and keep them feeling their best for years to come.

For Senior Pet Awareness Month, we're offering a free urine test when you book a Senior Health Checkup. This can help detect a variety of health issues before they become serious. Call us on 020 8459 4729 or book here.