As our beloved pets get older, their needs begin to change—sometimes in subtle ways. Just like people, aging dogs and cats benefit from a little extra care, attention, and regular checkups to keep them feeling their best.
At Browndog Lodge Veterinary Clinic in Arlington, Tennessee, we’re proud to help pets throughout the Memphis area enjoy long, happy lives. Whether your pet is just entering their senior years or well into them, understanding how to support their changing health is one of the best gifts you can give.
When Does a Pet Become a Senior?
Many pet parents are surprised to learn how early dogs and cats can reach their senior stage. While every pet ages differently, breed and size play a big role in determining when they become “senior.”
Dogs:
-Extra Large Breeds (90+ lbs): Around age 6–7
-Large Breeds (50–90 lbs): Around age 8–9
-Medium Breeds (20–50 lbs): Around age 8–10
-Small Breeds (under 20 lbs): Around age 10–12
Cats:
-Most cats are considered senior around 10 years old
If your dog or cat falls into one of these age ranges, it’s time to start thinking about senior wellness visits to keep them healthy and comfortable for years to come.
Senior pets are more prone to certain health conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, dental disease, and kidney issues—but early detection can make all the difference. That’s why preventive care is essential for aging pets.
At Browndog Lodge Veterinary Clinic, our senior pet care services in Arlington include:
-Comprehensive wellness exams and diagnostics
-Weight management and nutrition counseling
-Pain control and arthritis management
-Dental evaluations and cleanings
-Cognitive and behavioral assessments
-Parasite prevention and vaccinations
-Bloodwork and organ function testing
These visits allow our veterinarians to catch small issues early, often before you notice symptoms at home.
Signs Your Senior Pet May Need Extra Support
Some signs of aging are easy to spot—like gray hairs or slower walks—but others can be subtle. Paying attention to changes in your pet’s behavior or energy level can help you know when it’s time for a vet visit.
Watch for these signs in senior dogs:
-Difficulty standing or climbing stairs
-Decreased stamina or reluctance to play
-Changes in appetite or weight
-Cloudy eyes or hearing loss
-Personality shifts or confusion
-Bad breath or dental discomfort
And in senior cats:
-Trouble jumping onto furniture
-Weight loss or muscle wasting
-Changes in litter box habits
-Increased thirst or urination
-Grooming less often or matted fur
-Vocalizing more, especially at night
If you notice any of these changes, our Arlington veterinarians can perform an exam to uncover the cause and create a customized care plan.
How Often Should Senior Pets Visit the Vet?
For younger pets, annual checkups are usually enough—but once your pet becomes a senior, twice-yearly exams are recommended. Aging can happen quickly, and semiannual visits allow our team to detect problems early, adjust medications, and update your pet’s wellness plan as needed.
Our veterinarians near Memphis and Lakeland take a proactive approach to senior pet health, focusing on both prevention and comfort.
Making Life Easier for Aging Pets at Home
A few simple changes to your pet’s routine and environment can go a long way toward keeping them comfortable in their later years:
-Choose a diet formulated for senior pets to maintain weight and nutrition.
-Provide soft, supportive bedding to ease joint pressure.
-Add ramps or non-slip rugs to help them move around safely.
-Keep routines predictable and stress-free.
-Offer gentle exercise and mental stimulation.
With these adjustments and regular veterinary care, your senior pet can enjoy a fulfilling, active lifestyle well into their golden years.
Partner with Browndog Lodge Veterinary Clinic for Senior Pet Care in Arlington, TN
Aging is a natural part of life, but with a caring veterinary team by your side, your dog or cat can stay healthy, happy, and comfortable every step of the way. At Browndog Lodge Veterinary Clinic, we’re proud to serve Arlington, Bartlett, Lakeland, and the greater Memphis area with compassionate, comprehensive senior pet care.
Schedule your senior wellness exam today and let’s make your pet’s golden years their best years yet.
📍 Browndog Lodge Veterinary Clinic
Trusted care for senior pets in Arlington, TN — proudly serving the greater Memphis area.
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.