As pets age, their needs change—and just like people, they require a little extra care and attention to stay healthy and comfortable. At Dugan’s Veterinary Hospital in Southeast Aurora, Colorado, we understand how important it is to help your senior dog or cat live their happiest, healthiest years. Whether you’re noticing early signs of aging or simply want to stay proactive, here’s everything you need to know about senior pet care.
When Is My Dog or Cat Considered a Senior?
It might surprise you, but many dogs and cats become seniors earlier than you’d think. Age varies based on breed and size, so recognizing when your pet enters their golden years is key to giving them the right care.
Senior Dog Age Guidelines:
-Extra Large Dogs (90+ lbs): 6–7 years old
-Large Dogs (50–90 lbs): 8–9 years old
-Medium Dogs (20–50 lbs): 8–10 years old
-Small & Toy Dogs (under 20 lbs): 10–12 years old
Senior Cat Age Guidelines:
-All Cats: Around 10 years old
If your pet fits into these ranges, it’s time to start thinking about senior wellness exams and preventive care tailored to older pets.
Why Preventive Care Matters for Senior Pets
As pets age, they become more vulnerable to health issues that might not be obvious. That’s why preventive care is so important—it helps detect conditions early and keeps your pet comfortable for years to come.
At Dugan’s Veterinary Hospital, our senior pet exams include:
-Early detection of age-related diseases
-Nutrition and weight management
-Pain and mobility support
-Cognitive and behavioral health checks
-Dental care for senior dogs and cats
-Updated vaccinations and parasite prevention
-Comprehensive bloodwork and lab testing
Regular checkups allow our Aurora veterinarians to spot small changes before they become serious problems.
Common Signs of Aging in Dogs and Cats
Not all signs of aging are obvious. Keep an eye out for these changes that may indicate your pet is slowing down—or in discomfort.
In Dogs:
-Stiffness, limping, or trouble standing
-Weight gain or loss
-Cloudy eyes or hearing loss
-Behavior or personality changes
-Increased sleep or fatigue
-Bad breath or dental issues
In Cats:
-Dull or matted coat
-Weight loss or weakness
-Changes in litterbox habits
-Increased thirst or urination
-Hiding or confusion
-Nighttime vocalization
-Dental problems
If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a visit with our veterinarians in Southeast Aurora. Early intervention can make a huge difference in quality of life.
How Often Should Senior Pets Visit the Vet?
Even if your dog or cat seems healthy, we recommend wellness exams every six months for senior pets. These checkups help us monitor subtle changes and catch potential health issues before they progress.
At Dugan’s Veterinary Hospital, we tailor every senior pet wellness plan to your pet’s individual needs—whether that means bloodwork, mobility support, or nutritional adjustments.
Senior Pet Lifestyle Tips
Supporting your senior pet at home is just as important as regular vet visits. Here are a few ways to make your pet’s daily life more comfortable:
-Feed a senior-specific diet for proper nutrition
-Provide orthopedic bedding for joint support
-Modify activities for lower energy or mobility levels
-Add ramps or rugs to prevent slips and falls
-Keep their environment calm and consistent
These small changes can make a big difference in your pet’s comfort and happiness.
Partner with Your Southeast Aurora Veterinarian for Senior Pet Care
Aging is a natural part of life—but with proactive care, your senior dog or cat can continue to thrive. The team at Dugan’s Veterinary Hospital, conveniently located in Southeast Aurora near Parker, is here to support your pet’s changing health needs every step of the way.
Schedule your senior pet’s wellness exam today!
Give your furry family member the comfort, health, and happiness they deserve.
📍 Dugan’s Veterinary Hospital
Your trusted Aurora veterinarian for senior pet care
Serving Southeast Aurora, Parker, and surrounding communities.
References:
-American Veterinary Medical Association (2023). How to care for senior pets.
-PetMD (2024). When is a dog considered a senior?
-Veterinary Information Network (2025). Signs of pain in pets.