Your pet is getting older: how to make things easier for it

Over the years they move less, see or hear worse and need different care. Small changes at home that give them a better quality of life.

More vet visits

From a certain age, which depends on the species and size, it is a good idea to have check-ups more often. Many old-age diseases are better managed if they are caught early.

At home

A softer, thicker bed, away from the cold.
Ramps or steps to get onto the sofa or into the car.
Non-slip rugs on slippery floors.
Raised bowls if it finds it hard to bend down.
A low-sided litter tray for older cats.

Walks and play

More walks and shorter ones, at its own pace, and calm games that make it think, such as sniffing games. Staying active and at a healthy weight is one of the things that helps it most.

Watch for changes

If it drinks much more, loses weight, gets disoriented, sleeps differently or complains when it moves, mention it to the vet. Not everything is «just old age».