A Senior Checkup Can Catch What You Can’t See
Did you know that dogs and cats are considered seniors around 7 years of age, although this can vary based on breed, size and overall health? Age-related health problems can develop before there are obvious signs. A senior checkup gives us a chance to make sure everything is on track.
Regular checkups also give you a chance to ask questions about changes that come with aging and learn what you can do at home to help your pet stay healthy, comfortable and active for more years to come.
A blood chemistry profile gives us a closer look at how several of your pet’s internal systems are functioning and can reveal changes that aren’t obvious during a physical exam.
- Evaluates kidney and liver function
- Measures blood sugar, proteins and electrolytes
- Helps establish trends we can monitor as your pet ages
A CBC is a useful first-line test that provides a snapshot of your senior pet’s health. Because aging dogs and cats are at greater risk for a range of health problems, changes in their blood cells can provide some of the first clues that something may be wrong—even when they seem perfectly healthy at home.
- Anemia, which can cause weakness, fatigue or low energy
- Signs of infection or inflammation that may otherwise go unnoticed
- Abnormalities that may prompt further testing for cancer or other diseases
As dogs and cats age, they become more prone to kidney disease, diabetes and urinary problems—conditions that can develop before obvious symptoms appear. Urine testing works alongside blood work to provide important clues about your senior pet’s kidney, bladder and overall health.
- Early signs of kidney problems, which become more common as pets age
- Urinary tract infections, blood or other signs of urinary problems
- Glucose or other abnormalities that may point to diabetes or another underlying health condition
Like people, dogs and cats can develop thyroid problems as they get older. The thyroid helps control metabolism, so changes can affect weight, appetite, energy, heart rate, skin and coat. A simple thyroid panel measures hormone levels to help uncover changes that may otherwise look like normal signs of aging.
- An underactive thyroid, more commonly seen in older dogs
- An overactive thyroid, especially common in senior cats
- Thyroid problems that may explain changes in weight, appetite, energy, skin or coat
Is Your Senior Pet Slowing Down?
Slowing down isn’t always just part of getting older. Stiffness, difficulty getting up, shorter walks, reluctance to use stairs or no longer jumping onto favorite furniture can all be signs of discomfort.
Our team can evaluate changes in your pet’s mobility and recommend an individualized approach to help manage pain, support movement and improve day-to-day comfort.
Good Nutrition Matters as Pets Age
As pets age, changes in metabolism, activity and muscle mass can change their nutritional needs. The right diet and a healthy weight can help support aging joints, maintain muscle and manage certain health conditions. We can recommend nutrition based on your senior pet’s weight, health and changing needs.
They Deserve a Checkup. For Peace of Mind.
Even small changes can be worth checking as your pet gets older. Talk to us if you notice:
- Drinking or urinating more
- Unexplained weight loss or gain
- Changes in appetite
- Difficulty standing, walking or using stairs
- Less interest in walks, jumping or play
- Changes in sleep, behavior or personality
- Confusion or house-soiling
- New or changing lumps and bumps
Schedule your senior pet’s checkup today.
Save on your senior pet’s recommended testing this fall
Give us a closer look at your senior dog or cat’s health with recommended laboratory testing at Ashton Animal Hospital.
Book your senior pet’s visit today
Your pet may be getting older, but that doesn’t mean changes in their health, comfort or activity should go unnoticed. Ashton Animal Hospital provides senior dog and cat care for families throughout Downey and Norwalk, with routine testing, nutritional guidance and support for age-related health concerns.
