Senior Pet Care In Philadelphia, Montgomery & Bucks County

Dogs and cats age 5-6 years for every one human year. This means that most pets are considered “seniors” by age 7 (though this can vary based on breed and size). At World of Animals Veterinary Hospital in Philadelphia, we are dedicated to keeping your pet healthy and happy at every stage of life, and their senior stage is no less important. Since senior pets can be prone to disease and infection more so than younger adult pets, more frequent wellness checkups may be necessary to monitor for, and quickly treat, any health problems that arise.

World of Animals offers senior wellness packages every November and December to ensure affordable health screenings for our patients aged 7 and up. Early detection is key to the continued good health of your senior pet!

Dog Years VS Human Years

7 dog years = 44 – 56 years
10 dog years = 56 – 78 years
15 dog years = 76 – 115 years
20 dog years = 96 – 120 years

Cat Years VS Human Years

7 cat years = 54 years
10 cat years = 63 years
15 cat years = 78 years
20 cat years = 97 years

Senior Pets Should See Their Vet More Often

Whereas younger adult pets should see their veterinarian about once a year, we recommend seeing your senior pet at least twice a year, or every 6 months. Our team wants to be in a position to quickly detect any potential issues in your pet and provide treatment that is just as timely for maximum benefit. The sooner we can detect and treat a problem, the healthier and happier your senior dog or cat will be.

Senior pets have a tendency to develop these conditions as they grow older:

  • Arthritis
  • Diabetes
  • Heart disease
  • Liver disease
  • Kidney disease
  • Hypothyroidism (common in dogs)
  • Hyperthyroidism (common in cats)
  • Certain cancers
  • Arthritis
  • Diabetes
  • Heart disease
  • Liver disease
  • Kidney disease
  • Hypothyroidism (common in dogs)
  • Hyperthyroidism (common in cats)
  • Certain cancers

Aging is inevitable for our beloved pets, but we can make their senior years easier and more comfortable with biannual wellness exams.

senior dog cat veterinary care philadelphia pa

Signs Your Senior Pet Needs a Vet Visit

Dogs and cats both hide their pain and illness out of instinct. If they do show outward signs of sickness, their condition could be greatly diminished, and much harder to treat. If you see any of these clinical signs in your pet, contact our hospital as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.

  • Sudden weight loss or weight gain
  • Frequent vomiting/diarrhea
  • Heavy, excessive panting
  • Exercise intolerance, fatigue after moderate activity
  • An unusual lump or bump under the skin
  • Drooling excessively
  • Constipation (straining or unable to eliminate, litter box staying empty)
  • Incontinence (having regular accidents in the house)
  • Refusing food and water
  • Increased thirst or urination

Tips to Keep Your Senior Dog or Cat Comfortable & Healthy

As your pet’s primary caregiver, you can do several things to make a positive difference in their life and help them enjoy their golden years.

  • SUPPORT/IMPROVE MOBILITY AROUND THE HOUSE – Floor runners, ramps, and non-slip mats can improve your pet’s traction and prevent injury. It can also keep various parts of your house easily accessible to your pet.
  • REGULAR EXERCISE – Exercise is all the more important for senior pets. While you do not need to engage your pet in rigorous activity, regularly scheduled walks and low-intensity playtimes will keep your dog or cat active, trim, and mobile. They will also enjoy the experience!
  • SUPPORTIVE BEDDING – Many dogs and cats develop chronic joint and back pain as they get older. With soft, supportive bedding, your pet can rest more comfortably and have an easier time getting up after a nap.
  • AGE-APPROPRIATE DIET – Talk to your veterinarian to ensure your senior pet is getting the proper nutrients for their age group. Seniors may require a prescription diet to help them manage a chronic condition or prevent the onset of chronic disease.

Get the best care for your best friend.

Request an appointment online