Growing Older Together: Looking After Our Senior Pets
Posted in: Companion Animals
By Heather Hellmrich, Vet Nurse and Clinic Manager, Aorangi Vets
This article was first published in Fairlie Accessible, Issue 26-14.
As a vet nurse, I spend a lot of time helping owners care for their ageing pets. But when I get home, I’m in the same position as many people who I meet in the clinic. I have two senior dogs of my own – Gus, my 13-year-old Jack Russell, and Sarge, my 13-year-old Huntaway/Beardie cross.
They’ve both been by my side for many years, and like all of us, they’re feeling the effects of getting older. Both receive arthritis treatment to help keep them comfortable, and seeing the difference it has made has reinforced something I often tell our clients:
growing older doesn’t have to mean giving up the things our pets enjoy. One of the biggest lessons they’ve taught me is that arthritis isn’t always obvious.
The signs often creep in gradually – taking a little longer to get up after a nap, hesitating before jumping into the car, sleeping more than usual, or not wanting to go quite as far on a walk. Cats can be even more subtle, perhaps no longer jumping onto their favourite chair or becoming less interested in playing. Because these changes happen slowly, it’s easy to assume they’re “just getting old.” While ageing itself is inevitable, pain doesn’t have to be.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are the early signs of arthritis in dogs and cats?
Arthritis signs usually creep in gradually rather than appearing all at once. In dogs, watch for taking longer to get up after a nap, hesitating before jumping into the car, sleeping more than usual, or not wanting to walk as far. Cats are often more subtle – they may stop jumping onto a favourite chair or lose interest in play.
Is it normal for an older dog or cat to just slow down?
Some slowing down is a natural part of ageing, but it’s worth not assuming that’s all it is. Persistent changes in mobility or activity can be a sign of arthritis or another age-related condition, and a conversation with your veterinary team can help identify what’s really going on.
How can I help my senior pet stay comfortable at home?
Keeping your pet at a healthy weight reduces pressure on sore joints, regular gentle exercise helps maintain strength and mobility, and small home changes – a warm bed, non-slip mats, or a ramp for the car – can make everyday life easier.
What happens during a Senior Pet Mobility Assessment at Aorangi Vets?
You’ll sit down with one of our vets to talk through any changes you’ve noticed at home, have your pet’s mobility properly assessed, and discuss practical, realistic options for keeping them comfortable – with you, your pet, and the vet all part of the conversation.
Do cats get arthritis too?
Yes, and it can be harder to spot than in dogs. Rather than obvious limping, cats tend to show subtler signs like no longer jumping onto furniture or being less interested in play – which is why owners often mistake it for “just getting old.”
Noticing changes in your senior pet?
If any of this sounds familiar, our team is here to help. Get in touch with your nearest Aorangi Vets clinic to arrange a check-up for your dog or cat.
Highfield, Timaru: 03 687 9378
Geraldine: 03 693 1163
Fairlie: 03 685 8407