As pets age, small changes can be easy to dismiss as normal slowing down. But a new limp, reduced appetite, unusual restlessness, or difficulty getting comfortable may point to pain or another health concern. Noting when a change began and how often it happens gives your veterinarian useful information. This guide explains what to watch for, what details to record, and when to seek help for an older dog or cat.
Notice Changes in Movement
Watch for stiffness after resting, hesitation on stairs, trouble jumping onto familiar furniture, or a shorter, slower walk. Your pet may also favor one leg, slip on smooth floors, or need more time to stand. These changes can be signs of discomfort, weakness, or reduced coordination. A video of an unusual gait can help your veterinarian assess what you see at home.
Track when the movement change occurs and what seems to trigger it. Note whether your pet improves after moving around, avoids certain activities, or struggles more at a particular time of day. Contact a veterinarian if the problem persists, worsens, or limits daily routines. Sudden inability to stand or walk, especially with severe distress, calls for urgent veterinary advice.
Track Appetite and Drinking
A senior pet that consistently eats less, skips meals, takes longer to chew, or drops food may need an examination. So may a pet that suddenly seems much hungrier or thirstier than usual. Dental discomfort, nausea, and other health problems can affect eating and drinking, so do not assume a change is simply part of aging.
Record how much your pet eats and drinks, along with any vomiting, diarrhea, or change in urination. Mention whether the food or routine has recently changed. If your pet refuses food, cannot keep water down, or seems weak or unwell, contact a veterinarian promptly for guidance rather than waiting for the next routine visit.
Look for Behavior Shifts
Changes in sleep, social habits, or house training deserve attention. Your pet may withdraw, become unusually clingy, vocalize at night, seem confused in familiar places, or react differently to touch. A once-friendly pet that growls when handled may be protecting a sore area. Behavior changes can have physical causes, even when they look like mood or training issues.
Write down what changed, when it started, and whether it happens in specific situations. Note new accidents, nighttime waking, or difficulty finding food, water, or a familiar resting spot. Share these details with your veterinarian, including any recent medication or routine changes. Avoid scolding for accidents or unusual behavior until possible health causes have been considered.
Check Comfort and Daily Habits
Look for signs that your pet cannot settle comfortably: repeated repositioning, panting while resting, trembling, guarding a body part, or avoiding being picked up. Changes in grooming, coat condition, posture, or litter box habits can also be useful clues. Cats may hide discomfort, so subtle shifts in jumping, grooming, or use of the litter box matter.
Keep a simple record of symptoms, including frequency, duration, and anything that seems to ease or worsen them. Take photos or short videos when a sign is intermittent. Seek prompt veterinary guidance for persistent discomfort, worsening symptoms, or a sudden change in your pet’s condition. Difficulty breathing, collapse, or severe pain warrants emergency care.
You know your pet’s usual routines best. When a change lasts, repeats, or affects eating, movement, sleep, or comfort, share your observations with a veterinarian instead of waiting for it to become severe. A clear timeline and a few notes or videos can make the conversation more useful. Schedule a checkup with Arlington Senior Pet Care to discuss changes you’ve noticed.