Give your aging pet the golden years they deserve with expert senior pet care tips from our Cumberland County veterinary clinic.

At Plateau Animal Hospital in Cumberland County and surrounding areas, we consider it a privilege to help pets thrive throughout every life stage—including their golden years. If you’re searching for a vet near me to support your aging pup or wise old kitty, we are ready to provide the gentle, tailored support your furry bestie deserves. Senior pet care isn’t just about extra vet visits—it’s about improving quality of life.

In this blog, we’ll walk through simple yet powerful ways to improve your pet’s comfort and health as they age. From elderly dog wellness tips to specific aging cat health support and scheduling timely geriatric pet checkups, our veterinary clinic team is here to make those senior years count.

What Are the First Signs Your Pet Is Aging?

It often sneaks up on you—one day Fido can sprint across the yard, and the next, he’s reluctant to climb stairs. Common early signs of aging in pets include:

• Slower movement or stiffness
• Cloudy eyes or hearing loss
• Dental issues like bad breath or difficulty chewing
• Weight changes or appetite shifts
• Increased sleep or behavioral changes

Knowing these signs can help you take proactive steps toward senior pet care.

Elderly Dog Wellness Tips to Improve Comfort

Our canine buddies are loyal to the end—so it’s our job to ensure their later years are filled with love and comfort. Here are practical elderly dog wellness tips:

• Schedule semi-annual vet visits for early detection of age-related issues
• Offer orthopedic beds to ease joint pressure
• Keep nails trimmed to prevent slips on hard floors
• Provide joint supplements or prescription diets as recommended
• Encourage gentle walks or swimming to keep muscles strong

At Plateau Animal Hospital, we personalize care plans based on your pooch’s specific needs, mobility, and temperament. You can also read more about doggy fitness options at the AKC website here.

Aging Cat Health Support: What Fluffy Needs Now

Cats often age more quietly than dogs, but that doesn’t mean their needs are any less important. Providing aging cat health support means noticing subtle signs and adjusting her care routine:

• Add low-entry litter boxes to avoid straining joints
• Ensure her food is easy to chew and digest
• Provide warm, soft bedding in quiet spaces
• Use ramps to help her access favorite perches
• Monitor for changes in grooming or litter box habits

Routine bloodwork and geriatric pet checkups can help catch thyroid, kidney, or dental issues early—common concerns for senior kitties. The American Medical Veterinary Association is also a great resource for senior pet care. Click here to read more.

Why Geriatric Pet Checkups Are So Important

Even if your furry friend seems healthy, geriatric pet checkups offer a window into what’s happening beneath the surface. These visits often include:

• Physical exam with emphasis on joints, eyes, and teeth
• Blood tests and urinalysis to detect organ function issues
• Nutritional guidance based on changing metabolism
• Behavioral assessments to detect cognitive decline

Catching problems early means we can often slow their progression. Our animal hospital in Cumberland County is equipped to provide compassionate senior care for pets of all shapes and sizes.

When Should I Start Senior Pet Wellness Visits?

Most dogs and cats are considered senior around 7–8 years of age, but this varies by breed and species. Your vets at Plateau Animal Hospital can help you determine the best time to begin more frequent checkups.

FAQ

How often should I take my senior pet to the vet?

Every 6 months is recommended for early detection and preventive care.

Are supplements helpful for older pets?

Yes! Omega-3s, glucosamine, and antioxidants can support joints and cognitive health. Ask our vets which ones are right for your pet.

What if my pet seems disoriented or confused?

It could be a sign of cognitive dysfunction syndrome. Don’t ignore it—there are treatments and lifestyle changes that can help.

My senior pet is losing weight—what does that mean?

It could indicate dental disease, metabolic issues, or organ decline. Bring your pet in for a checkup to investigate further.

Should I change my pet’s diet as they age?

Yes—many brands offer senior-specific formulas to support aging bodies and changing digestion. Preventing obesity becomes very important as your pet ages! 

Visit Our Cumberland County Veterinary Clinic for Senior Pet Care

At Plateau Animal Hospital, our team proudly serves families in Crossville, Fairfield Glade, Lake Tansi, and across Cumberland County with personalized care for every stage of your pet’s life. Our vets, veterinarians, and pet clinic staff understand the emotional and physical needs of aging pets.

Are you looking for a veterinary clinic near me that understands senior pets? We’d love to welcome you and your four-legged friend into our care.

Visit our Service Page to learn more about the services we offer and the type of pets we see.

With the right support, your senior pet can enjoy a comfortable, joyful retirement by your side. Let our team help with gentle guidance, diagnostics, and lifestyle advice tailored to aging pets. Schedule your pet’s next wellness exam today.

This blog is meant to be informational only. Always consult with your veterinarian for the right medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment plan for your pet and follow their advice.