How often should your senior cat or dog visit the vet?

As our furry friends get older, their health needs change, and regular vet visits become a key part of keeping them happy and healthy. For senior cats and dogs—typically those seven years or older—most vets recommend check-ups at least twice a year.

This schedule helps catch any health issues early, which is crucial since older cats and dogs are more prone to things like arthritis, kidney problems, or even cancer. That said, some healthy seniors might do fine with just an annual visit, so it’s worth chatting with your vet to figure out what’s best for your pet.

Why regular check-ups matter

Think of vet visits as a proactive way to stay ahead of potential problems. As animals age, health issues can sneak up fast, often without obvious signs at first. Regular check-ups let your vet spot these issues early, whether it’s a slight limp from arthritis or something more serious like organ trouble.

Catching problems early can make a big difference—simple diet changes or medications can often manage conditions before they get out of hand. Plus, these visits give you a chance to tweak your pet’s routine, like adjusting their food or exercise to keep them comfortable as they age.

Beyond catching diseases, check-ups are a great time to talk about any changes you’ve noticed. Maybe your dog or cat has been drinking more water, moving a bit slower, or acting a little off. Your vet can dig into these clues, run tests if needed, and offer advice on keeping your pet feeling their best. It’s also a chance to build a relationship with your vet, which can be a lifesaver if an emergency pops up.

What happens at a senior dog check-up

So, what goes on during these visits? A senior dog check-up is a full-body evaluation for your pup. The vet will start with a thorough physical exam, checking your dog’s weight, feeling their joints for stiffness, listening to their heart and lungs, and poking around their belly to make sure everything feels normal. They’ll take a close look at your dog’s teeth and gums, since dental issues are super common in older dogs and can lead to bigger problems if ignored. Eyes and ears get checked too—cataracts, glaucoma, or ear infections can creep up as dogs age.

Blood work is often a big part of these visits. It can reveal things like how well your dog’s kidneys and liver are working, or if there’s anything off with their blood sugar or thyroid. Sometimes, the vet might suggest a urine test or other diagnostics to get a fuller picture. If your dog’s on any meds, the vet will review those to make sure they’re still working well and not causing side effects. They’ll also make sure vaccinations and parasite prevention, like flea and heartworm protection, are up to date, since older dogs can be more vulnerable to infections.

The vet will likely ask about your dog’s behavior, too. Things like confusion, restlessness at night, or changes in appetite could point to cognitive issues, which are common in senior dogs. They might suggest ways to manage these, like puzzle toys or supplements. You’ll also talk about diet and exercise—maybe your dog needs a food that’s easier on their joints or a shorter, gentler walk each day. It’s all about tailoring care to keep them comfortable.

What happens at a senior cat check-up

A senior cat check-up, typically recommended for cats aged 7–10 years or older, is a comprehensive veterinary visit aimed at monitoring and maintaining the health of aging felines, with a focus on early detection of age-related conditions to ensure a good quality of life.

During the visit, the veterinarian conducts a thorough physical examination, assessing your cat’s weight and body condition to detect issues like diabetes or kidney disease, examining the eyes, ears, and mouth for signs of cataracts, dental disease (affecting up to 70% of cats over three!), or infections, and listening to the heart and lungs for murmurs or irregularities, as heart disease like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy affects about 15% of cats.

The vet also checks joints for arthritis (signs of arthritis are found in up to 40% of all cats and up to 90% of cats over 12), palpates the abdomen for organ abnormalities or masses, and inspects the skin and coat for lumps or changes that could indicate cancer. The vet reviews the cat’s medical history, discussing changes in behavior, appetite, thirst, litter box habits, or activity levels to identify symptoms of chronic conditions.

Diagnostic tests, such as bloodwork to screen for kidney disease (affecting 30–40% of senior cats), liver issues, diabetes, or hyperthyroidism, urinalysis to assess kidney or bladder health, blood pressure measurement to detect hypertension, fecal exams for parasites, or imaging like X-rays or ultrasounds for suspected abnormalities, may be recommended based on the cat’s health and risk factors.

Core vaccinations, such as those for rabies or feline distemper, and preventive care may also be updated as needed to keep the cat healthy.

The value of investing in check-ups

Let’s be real—vet visits can hit the wallet, especially as they add up over time. But think of them as an investment in your beloved pet’s quality of life. Catching something like dental disease early can save you from pricier treatments down the road, like tooth extractions or even heart problems linked to bad teeth.

Same goes for conditions like kidney disease—early management with diet or meds can keep your best friend feeling good for longer and avoid costly emergencies. Plus, the peace of mind that comes with knowing your elder dog’s or cat’s health is on track? Priceless.

Tips for making check-ups easier

To make vet visits as smooth as possible, come prepared. Jot down any changes in your pet’s behavior, appetite, or habits to share with the vet. Bring a list of their current meds, including any supplements. If your furry friend gets nervous at the vet, try calming tricks like bringing their favorite blanket or scheduling appointments at quieter times.

Some vets even offer “senior wellness plans” that bundle check-ups, blood work, and other services at a discount, so ask about those if cost is a concern.

In the end…

At the end of the day, regular vet check-ups are one of the best ways to give your senior dog or cat a happy, healthy life. Twice a year is the sweet spot for most elder pets, but your vet can help you figure out the perfect schedule based on their unique needs.

These visits are about more than just catching problems—they’re about fine-tuning their care to keep them wagging their tails or giving you the stink eye for as long as possible. By staying on top of check-ups and watching for any changes at home, you’re giving your furry friend the best shot at enjoying their golden years to the fullest.