As our pets grow older, their health needs change - sometimes quickly and without us noticing. Senior pets age faster than younger ones, and their bodies undergo changes that can be subtle at first. Similar to us, aging brings pets a higher risk of chronic disease after the age of 7 (5 for large dogs), so regular senior wellness exams become essential. Regular checkups can help your veterinarian to monitor health changes and detect diseases early, when they’re most treatable.

Senior wellness exams should include a thorough physical assessment, a detailed discussion of your pet’s behavior and lifestyle, and diagnostic testing to evaluate internal organ function. Detecting issues early can often extend a pet’s lifespan and greatly improve quality of life.  

Common Health Conditions in Senior Pets

Aging affects every system in the body, and senior pets are more prone to several chronic conditions. Here are some of the most common health concerns that we see in senior pets at Longevity Veterinary Center:

  • Arthritis and Joint Disease:
    Osteoarthritis affects approximately 1 in 5 dogs and a similar proportion of cats. In fact, studies show that up to 90% of cats over age 12 have some degree of arthritis, even if they don’t limp or show obvious pain.

  • Dental Disease:
    Over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of dental disease by age 3, and it worsens as pets continue to age. Untreated dental disease can lead to pain, infection, and even heart or kidney complications.

  • Kidney Disease:
    Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most common conditions in senior cats, affecting up to 30–40% of cats over age 10, and can also occur in aging dogs.

  • Diabetes:
    About 1 in 300 dogs and 1 in 230 cats are diagnosed with diabetes, with the risk increasing significantly in older pets and overweight animals.

  • Heart Disease:
    Heart disease affects 10% of dogs overall but is far more common in aging pets with  small breeds being prone to valve disease and large breeds prone to dilated cardiomyopathy.

  • Cancer:
    Sadly, 1 in 4 dogs and 1 in 5 cats will develop cancer at some point in their lives, and the risk rises dramatically with age. Early detection offers the best chance for successful treatment.

  • Endocrine Disorders (Thyroid, Adrenal):
    Hyperthyroidism is one of the most common diseases in older cats, while hypothyroidism often affects aging dogs. Both can cause weight, energy, and coat changes.

Recommended Testing for Senior Pets

In addition to regular wellness exams, veterinarians recommend a set of baseline diagnostic tests to get a full picture of your senior pet’s health. These tests help identify diseases before symptoms appear.

Core Wellness Tests Include:

  • Complete Blood Count (CBC): Checks for anemia, infection, and immune health.

  • Comprehensive Chemistry Panel: Evaluates organ function (liver, kidneys, pancreas) and electrolyte balance.

  • Urinalysis: Detects kidney disease, diabetes, and urinary tract issues.

  • Thyroid Function Test (T4): Especially important for cats (hyperthyroidism) and dogs (hypothyroidism).

  • Blood Pressure Measurement: High blood pressure is common in senior cats and dogs and can damage organs if untreated.

  • Fecal Testing: Screens for intestinal parasites, which can still affect older pets.

  • X-rays (Radiographs): Evaluate arthritis, heart enlargement, or internal masses.

  • Ultrasound: Helps visualize internal organs for early tumor or disease detection.

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG): Monitors heart rhythm for irregularities.

  • Dental Exam and X-rays: Detect hidden dental disease beneath the gum line.

With diagnostic tools and a physical, we can create a plan for keeping your senior pet health for years to come. Integrative approaches—such as laser therapy for arthritis, nutritional adjustments, acupuncture, and joint supplements—can help manage chronic conditions and improve comfort and mobility. Regular exercise, weight management, and mental stimulation also play key roles in maintaining health and happiness.

To celebrate National Senior Pet Month this November, Longevity is offering 20% off all Senior Pet (age 7+) wellness exams as well as 10% off laser therapy to address the common concerns of arthritis and joint pain. Contact us at www.lvcnj.com or (973) 606-1101 to schedule your senior pet’s exam and let us help you have more time together!