What age does my pet become a senior?
Ageing is a natural part of life and enjoying the company of a pet into their senior years can be very rewarding and fulfilling. Many pets are considered to be seniors after seven years of age depending on the type of pet, their size and breed. As they grow older, your pet’s needs change and you may need to make some adjustments to keep your pet happy, healthy and comfortable.
Calculating your pets age in human years
We have all heard the calculation that one dog year is equal to seven human years. However, there is a bit more to the story.
Your dog’s size and breed play a significant role in calculating their human age. Smaller dogs tend to outlive larger dogs.
Dogs and cats also mature more in the first two years of their life, with their first year equal to about 15 years and their second approximately 9 years of human life.
Cats generally have a longer life expectancy than dogs.
To help simplify the calculation, we have created a chart that converts your pet’s age to human years.
What age does your pet become a senior
If we know that calculating your pet’s age includes consideration of their species, breed and size, at what age do pets become a senior?
Cats are considered seniors between 7-11 years of age
Small dogs (0-9kg) are considered seniors over the age of 8
Medium dogs (10-25kg) are considered seniors over the age of 7
Large dogs (25kg+) are considered seniors over the age of 6
Common signs of ageing in senior pets
Aside from calculating your pet’s age in human years and determining when they become a senior, there are several signs of ageing you can look out for in your senior pet. It’s important to pay attention to your pet’s health and be mindful of these signs of ageing. Identifying and speaking to your local vet about any health concerns early can help prevent minor problems becoming more serious, whilst also improving the comfort level for your beloved senior pet too.
Hearing loss – As your pet ages their hearing can deteriorate to. Certain types of hearing loss in pets are curable so it is worth speaking to your local vet first. In instances where it is not, there are a number of steps you can take at home to help keep your pet safe and comfortable. Read our article here.
Reduced vision and other eye problems - If your pet is starting to bump into things, is startled easily or has cloudy or red eyes they may be suffering from vision loss or an eye disorder. Deteriorating eyesight is common in ageing pets, however it is worth taking your pet to the vet to rule out any treatable eye conditions.
Bad breath, swollen gums & other dental health issues - If you haven’t been following a dental care program at home such as brushing your pets teeth, offering dental treats or chew toys and taking your pet to the vet for regular dental check-ups, it is possible they may be starting to show signs of dental disease. For 8 common signs of dental disease click here.
Growths, tumours and other skin problems - It’s important to check your pet regularly for lumps and bumps. If you find a lump or bump on your pet, please make an appointment with one of our vets to have it checked out. Your pet may also encounter skin and coat issues. These may show up as itching, rashes, hot spots, lesions, dry skin or hair loss. If this is the case it is worth speaking to your local vet as they can suggest solutions to help to alleviate the symptoms or even cure the underlying cause of the issue.
Age related diseases - Just like humans, there are a number of diseases that are more likely to affect older pets. These can include arthritis, heart disease, kidney disease, cancer and dementia. Talk to your vet if you notice any changes in your pet’s behaviour or health as early detection, treatment and management offer the best outcome for you and your pet.
Weight gain or loss - Both weight gain and loss can be a sign of ageing. A reduction in exercise and a slower metabolism can cause your pet to put on weight, whilst a lack of appetite or issues with digestion can have the opposite effect. Speak to one of our vets if you have any concerns about your pet’s weight. They can suggest a change in diet or exercise program that is suitable for your ageing pet to help improve their overall health.
Incontinence – Pets can find it increasingly difficult to control their bladder and bowel movements as they get older. Whilst most don’t loose total control, the occasional accident indoors can be quite common. Never punish your pet for such accidents as they can be distressing enough for them. Rather, give your pet more opportunities to go to the toilet throughout the day. If this doesn’t help, take your pet to the vet to make sure nothing is medically wrong.
Joint pain and stiffness – You may notice your pet becoming less active and mobile, especially in the mornings or after a long walk. Arthritis is another common sign of an ageing pet. It is important to adjust your pets exercise routine to support these changes. It is also worth introducing some home comforts such as a soft bed in a warm, draft free place or ramps for going upstairs or getting into the car so your pet doesn’t have to jump.
Behaviour and memory problems - As your pet ages, their behaviour can change too. They may become less interested in affection and attention or sleep more and have less energy. A pet suffering from cognitive dysfunction or dementia may also appear confused, unstable or irritable at times. Speak to your vet if your notice any behavioural changes in your pet.
Tips for happy healthy senior pets
As they grow older, your pet’s needs change and you may need to make some adjustments to keep your pet happy, healthy and comfortable. Consider these tips to help your senior pet thrive.
Preventative health care - As your pet ages, preventative healthcare is critical. This includes yearly vaccinations, parasite control and regular visits to the vet. Twice yearly health checks are recommended for senior pets to ensure early detection and treatment of disease.
Offer a complete and balanced diet - A complete and balanced diet is essential for your pet’s health and wellbeing. Older pets often have specific nutritional requirements and may benefit from specially formulated food. Our vets can provide you with the best advice about what diet is most suitable for your ageing pet.
Regular exercise - that is in-line with your pet’s capabilities. Your vet may advise gentle walks if your dog is overweight or swimming as a therapy for dogs with arthritis. General playtime is also a great form of exercise.
Add in some home comforts - There are various steps that can be introduced at home to help make your senior pet more comfortable. Watch your pet navigate your home and work towards improving any areas that are difficult or potential hazards. You also want to make sure the areas that they sleep and spend most of their time are comfortable and easy to access.
Regular grooming - As pets age they can develop more matting with reduced activity. An incontinent pet also needs their hair clipped around their toileting areas and checked daily to ensure this area is clean, dry and not irritated. Pay special attention to grooming areas of your pet’s body that are hard for them to reach.
Dental health - dental health is even more important as your pet ages. Look after your pet’s teeth through regularly brushing or have your pet’s teeth cleaned professionally on the advice of your vet. Watch out for common signs of dental disease.
Lots of love and attention - the most important thing you can do for your older pet is to give them lots of love and attention. Gentle pats and spending time together can be enjoyable for both of you.
Having a senior pet can be very rewarding. As they age it’s important to make some adjustments to their healthcare and daily routine to ensure they continue to be happy, healthy and comfortable. Please speak to one of our vets if you have any questions about your senior pet.