Nearly 7 million pets live in shelters in the United States, and most of them are senior pets. National Adopt a Senior Pet Month, celebrated every November, encourages families to take in these neglected beings. However, caring for older pets requires more careful health management. Below are the top five most common health problems in senior pets and strategies to help pet owners provide them with a high quality of life in their twilight years.
1. Arthritis: silent pain and limited movement
Arthritis is one of the most common health problems in older pets. As we age, the cartilage in our joints gradually wears away, causing inflammation, swelling and pain, leading to a decrease in your pet’s mobility. Large dogs, overweight pets and certain cat breeds (such as Maine cats) are at higher risk.
Symptoms Present:
- Difficulty getting up, hesitancy to jump or refusal to climb stairs
- Lameness, stiff gait or noticeable fatigue after activity
- Decreased interest in playing or even aggression (triggered by pain)
Nursing recommendations:
- Pharmacological interventions: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can provide pain relief, but veterinary dosages need to be strictly followed.
- Physical therapy: hydrotherapy, acupuncture and gentle stretching exercises can improve joint mobility.
- Environmental modifications: laying non-slip carpets, providing steps or ramps to help get on and off high places.
2. Dental Disease: from gingivitis to systemic infections
Over 80% of pets over the age of 3 have dental problems, and older pets are more likely to develop periodontal disease and even heart or kidney infections.
Symptoms manifest:
- Bad breath, salivating or dropping food when chewing
- Red, swollen gums, loose or falling teeth
- Loss of appetite and sudden weight loss
Care recommendations:
- Daily Cleaning: use a pet-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, and brush teeth at least 3 times a week.
- Professional Care: An annual dental cleaning removes calculus and prevents deep-seated infections.
- Dietary aids: choose dry or dental prescription food with friction to reduce plaque build-up.
3. Cognitive Dysfunction: ‘Alzheimer’s Disease’ in pets
Approximately 28% of 11-12 year old dogs and 68% of 15-16 year old dogs develop cognitive dysfunction with symptoms similar to human dementia.
Symptoms manifest:
- Disorientation (e.g. wandering in familiar surroundings)
- Disturbed sleep cycles, with frequent barking or pacing at night
- Forgetting training commands or reduced social interaction
Care Recommendations:
- Environmental enrichment: Provide educational toys and olfactory games to stimulate brain activity.
- Regular routine: regular feeding, walking and sleeping times to reduce anxiety.
- Nutritional support: a diet with antioxidants (e.g., vitamin E, Omega-3) may slow cognitive decline.
4. Cancer: early detection is key
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in older pets and common types include lymphoma (dogs), osteosarcoma (large dogs) and mammary tumours (unspayed bitches/cats).
Symptoms Present:
- Rapidly enlarging abnormal lumps or ulcers that do not heal
- Sudden weight loss, difficulty breathing or persistent diarrhoea
- Loss of appetite accompanied by lethargy
Care Recommendations:
- Regular palpation: check your pet’s body monthly and watch for enlarged lymph nodes.
- Diagnostic tools: Biopsy, X-ray or ultrasound can determine the nature of the tumour.
- Treatment Options: surgical removal, chemotherapy or palliative care need to be combined with an assessment of your pet’s quality of life.
5. Vision and Hearing Loss: Adaptation is More Important Than a Cure
Cataracts, glaucoma and retinal degeneration are the leading causes of blindness in older pets, while structural deterioration or infection of the ear canal can lead to hearing loss.
Symptoms manifest:
- Bumping into furniture, cloudy pupils (cataracts) or increased eye discharge
- Unresponsive to sound and easily startled during sleep
Care recommendations:
- Home safety: fix the position of furniture and avoid frequent changes in living areas.
- Communication Adjustment: Switch to tactile signals (e.g., patting the floor) to guide hearing-impaired pets.
- Medical intervention: cataract surgery can restore some vision, but anaesthetic risks need to be assessed.
Integrated care: the key to prolonging a happy old age
- Regular Physical Examination: Blood, urine and blood pressure tests are recommended every 6 months for pets over 7 years old, for early detection of problems such as kidney disease and abnormal thyroid function.
- Nutritional management: Choose low phosphorus and high protein food (for pets with kidney disease), high fibre and low fat formula (for obese pets), or joint health ingredients (e.g. glucosamine).
- Psychological support: Maintain moderate socialisation to avoid isolating the pet due to ageing.
CONCLUSION: Giving senior pets a second chance at life
Adopting a senior pet is not only an act of kindness, it’s a rewarding journey. They may not be with you for decades, but they will spend the rest of their lives pouring out all their love. With science-based care and patience, senior pets can enjoy dignity and comfort even in the face of health challenges. This November, step into a shelter and give a silver-haired companion a warm home.
(Note: The content of this article is consolidated from the reports of veterinary institutions and pet health guidelines, please consult a professional veterinarian for specific treatment options.)
