Caring for Your Senior Pet: Tips to Keep Them Healthy, Happy, and Moving

No one likes to think about their beloved pet getting older, but supporting your pet through their senior years can make a major difference in their comfort, mobility, and quality of life. At Valentine Vet, we’re passionate about helping families in Raleigh, NC, and surrounding areas care for their aging pets through informed nutrition, gentle exercise, and proactive pain management—including in-home acupuncture.

Here’s what to know as your pet enters their golden years.

When Is a Pet Considered “Senior”?

While every pet ages differently, most dogs and cats are considered seniors around 8 years of age. For giant breed dogs, that transition starts even earlier—around 6 years. Cats tend to age a bit more slowly, with many reaching senior status closer to age 10.

It's important to note that “old age” is not a disease, but as pets age, they often develop specific health concerns that need thoughtful care. The more we can support them early on, the better their chances of aging gracefully and comfortably.

Nutrition for Aging Pets: What to Feed and Why

Senior pets experience changes in appetite, digestion, and metabolism. Most become less active, yet still need dense, high-quality nutrition to maintain a healthy body condition and avoid muscle wasting.

Here are some key dietary guidelines for senior pets:

• Higher-quality protein: Aging pets lose muscle more easily and digest protein less efficiently, so they need more protein—not less.

• Energy-dense meals: Smaller portions with higher calories can help maintain weight in pets who eat less.

• Vitamins & minerals: Senior pets benefit from higher vitamin levels and lower sodium and phosphorus, which help reduce stress on aging kidneys and hearts.

While many pet food companies market “senior” diets, AAFCO does not currently have a separate standard for senior pet nutrition. This means it’s especially important to research food brands or consult with your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist to ensure your pet’s specific needs are met.

Keeping Senior Pets Active Without Overdoing It

Physical activity remains essential for older pets, but the goal is safe, low-impact movement that prevents muscle wasting and keeps their minds engaged.

Here are some tips for keeping your senior pet active:

• Choose gentle activities like swimming, slow leash walks, or treadmill work.

• Monitor mobility closely—what looks like “slowing down” may actually be a sign of pain or arthritis.

• Avoid overexertion: Sprinting after a ball may be too much for some pets, but short, fun games like hide-and-seek with treats can be enriching.

• Stimulate the brain with puzzle toys, obedience refreshers, or fun tricks. Mental engagement can delay cognitive decline and build confidence.

Managing Chronic Pain in Aging Pets

One of the most common (and often overlooked) issues in senior pets is chronic pain, especially related to arthritis or joint degeneration. Pain is best managed before it becomes severe—early intervention helps prevent a phenomenon known as “wind-up pain,” where discomfort intensifies over time and becomes harder to manage.

Common signs of pain include:

• Limping or stiffness

• Avoiding stairs or jumping

• Trouble posturing to potty

• Unusual sleep patterns or extreme fatigue

• Whimpering, hiding, or behavioral changes

A multi-modal pain management plan is often the most effective and may include:

• Acupuncture – Excellent for managing both acute and chronic pain, tailored to the cause and location of discomfort

• Laser therapy – Ideal for inflammation and healing soft tissue injuries

• Injectables – Options like Librela and Adequan offer powerful arthritis relief

• Conventional medications – NSAIDs or other pain relievers may still play a role in your pet’s care

Your veterinarian can help guide you toward the most appropriate combination of therapies for your pet’s individual needs.

Aging Gracefully Starts with Proactive Care

At Valentine Vet, we believe aging doesn’t have to mean suffering. With the right support, your senior pet can remain happy, comfortable, and active well into their later years. Through in-home acupuncture and holistic support, Dr. Priya brings expert, compassionate care to your doorstep—ensuring your pet ages with dignity, comfort, and love.

Serving Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and surrounding areas.Want to learn more about how acupuncture or nutrition can help your senior pet?📍 Schedule a consult with Dr. Priya today.🗓️ [HERE]📞 919-617-7451 | ✉️ drpriya@valentine.vet