Senior Pet Care: A Natural Guide For The Golden Years

Caring for senior pets often starts with noticing the little things. Perhaps your dog walks a little slower down the steps, or your cat settles in the chair instead of leaping for the windowsill. Maybe your horse comes out of winter a little lighter for the first time in years.

These small changes are part of getting older, but good senior pet care can help support your animal's comfort, mobility and quality of life for years to come.  

Signs your pet is getting older

  • Movement: Your pet may take longer to get up after resting, stretch more often or pause before jumping into the car.
  • Changes in the mind: Some older dogs and cats become confused in familiar places. They may stare at walls, get stuck behind furniture, forget toilet habits or become restless at night.
  • Weight and digestion: The gut can become more sensitive with age, and weight loss can be easy to miss under a thick coat or rug. Run your hands over their ribs and spine regularly to keep track of changes.
  • Lumps and bumps: Older animals often develop new lumps. Note where they are, how big they are and whether they change.
  • Hearing and sight: An animal who startles easily, bumps into things or stops responding to their name may be losing some hearing or vision. Speak before you touch them and keep furniture in familiar places.

How to care for a senior pet

A balanced diet, gentle regular movement, comfortable surroundings and appropriate natural supplements can all form part of a senior pet care routine. Every animal is different, so it's important to consider their individual needs.

  • GENTLE MOVEMENT: Movement helps keep older bodies supple, and shorter walks can be easier on ageing joints than one long outing. A slow sniff walk also works the brain and provides mental stimulation without putting too much pressure on their joints.

    Older horses often do best with daily turnout and gentle, consistent movement rather than bursts of hard riding.

    For extra joint support, Technyflex is made from 100% New Zealand green-lipped mussel, a whole-food source of naturally occurring glucosamine, chondroitin and omega-3s. We stock versions for dogs, cats and horses.

  • NOURISH THEM FROM THE INSIDE: A balanced diet is increasingly important as animals age. Make sure to include quality oils and fatty acids such as Omega Plus Oil to help nourish the skin and coat for dogs, cats and horses.

  • MAKE HOME EASIER: Move beds off cold floors, add extra padding and use rugs or mats on slippery surfaces. Ramps and steps can help with cars, couches and beds, while raised food and water bowls may make eating more comfortable.

If your pet is living with a specific diagnosis, our holistic support guides walk you through natural ways to support them.

And if you're not sure what your pet needs, our Naturopath is here to help. Feel free to ask a question and get personalised guidance for your pet. Naturopathic Support