At PetWell we are always focused on How to Care for Ageing Dogs and Cats Naturally
As our pets grow older, things start to change, sometimes slowly, sometimes all at once. Their energy fades, joints stiffen, and they might even forget things they’ve always known. It’s all part of the ageing process. But that doesn’t mean they can’t thrive in their golden years with a little extra support.
So, how do you care for an ageing pet naturally, without overwhelming them (or yourself)? We’ve got you covered with simple strategies that keep tails wagging and whiskers twitching as the years go by.
Quick Take: How to Care for Ageing Dogs and Cats Naturally
✔ Feed a gut-friendly, anti-inflammatory diet
✔ Support ageing bodies with joint, gut & calming supplements
✔ Prioritise oral hygiene
✔ Keep up gentle daily exercise
✔ Book regular vet check-ups + titer tests
✔ Support their ageing joints
✔ Create a stress-free safe space
✔ Spend more quiet time together
1. What Should You Feed a Senior Dog or Cat?
Older pets often struggle with digestion, weight gain, or loss of appetite. Their metabolism slows, and their bodies just don’t process food the way they used to.
What helps? A fresh, balanced diet that includes:
- Higher fibre (think pumpkin, green veggies)
- Lower carbs and zero fillers
- Whole, lightly cooked foods
- Plenty of moisture to reduce kidney strain
For pets showing signs of bloating, grass-eating, or sensitive tummies, PetWell’s DIGEST supplement is your go-to. It’s loaded with gut-friendly ingredients like probiotics, marshmallow root, organic medicinal mushrooms and more to soothe from the inside out.
2. Do Older Dogs and Cats Need Supplements?
Yes, and here’s why: As pets age, they produce fewer natural compounds like glucosamine (for joints) and digestive enzymes. Supplements help fill in the gaps, especially for mobility, gut health, and stress management.
The most helpful ingredients for senior pets include:
- Glucosamine & chondroitin for joint cushioning
- Omega-3s from fish or hemp seed for inflammation
- Probiotics & herbs for digestion and immune function
- Chamomile, green tea, magnesium for anxiety support
✔ Try PetWell MOBILITY + BEEF functional treats or the MOBILITY supplement to support stiff joints and inflammation naturally with naturally occurring Glucosamine & chondroitin and omega 3’s .
✔ PetWell CALM helps anxious or confused seniors feel safe and grounded, especially when paired with routine and familiar scents. Calm includes naturally occurring L-Tryptophan, l-theanine and other relaxing properties.
✔ And for digestion? DIGEST is your gentle, daily gut ally.
3. How Important Is Oral Health for Ageing Pets?
Very. Dental issues don’t just cause bad breath, they can seriously affect your pet’s heart, liver, kidneys, and overall immune system.
Sadly, many older pets suffer in silence with sore gums, cracked teeth, or infections.
To help:
- Brush their teeth daily or every other day (yes, it’s possible!)
- Use chew toys or natural dental treats if brushing isn’t an option
- Get a professional dental clean every 12 months
Early prevention avoids pain later and helps them keep enjoying their favourite crunchy treats.
4. How Much Exercise Should a Senior Dog or Cat Get?
The key? Keep it gentle but consistent.
Daily movement helps older pets:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Prevent muscle loss
- Keep joints moving and minds engaged
Short sniffy walks, soft playtime, or low-impact agility are all great. For cats, encourage light climbing or window watching to keep muscles and minds active.
Top it off with a MOBILITY + BEEF treat as a reward, they’ll think it’s just tasty, you’ll know it’s joint support in disguise.
5. How Often Should You See the Vet with an Older Pet?
Senior pets need twice-yearly vet visits. Even if they’re not showing obvious signs of illness, regular check-ups help detect issues like arthritis, organ strain, dental disease, and more before they become serious.
Your vet may recommend:
- Blood and urine tests
- Dental checks
- Hearing and vision assessments
- Weight and mobility checks
Early detection means better quality of life.
Should You Still Vaccinate Ageing Pets?
This is a big one, and many pet parents don’t realise there’s an alternative: titer testing.
As pets age, over-vaccination can place extra stress on their immune system. Titer testing is a simple blood test that checks your pet’s existing immunity levels to core diseases, so you can avoid giving unnecessary booster jabs.
PetWell tip: We titer test Archie (our Chief Barking Officer & Treat Tester) instead of automatically vaccinating, and his immunity has remained high year after year. It's a safer, more tailored way to care for ageing pets.
Ask your vet about titer testing, especially if your senior pet is already managing other health conditions.
6. How Do You Help Pets with Arthritis or Joint Pain?
Arthritis is one of the most common (and painful) issues for senior dogs and cats. You might notice:
- Stiffness after rest
- Reluctance to jump or climb
- Limping or slowing down on walks
- Licking at joints or paws
For tips on managing > Joint Pain in Dogs
Support them naturally with anti-inflammatory foods like:
- Turmeric
- MSM
- Rose Hip
- New Zealand Green-lipped mussels
- Boswellia
- Bone Broth
- Chia Seeds
PetWell MOBILITY contains all of the above in one easy scoop. You can mix it into meals or sprinkle over a lick mat for added enrichment.
7. What Can You Do to Ease Anxiety in Older Pets?
Cognitive decline, sensory loss (sight/hearing), or pain can leave senior pets feeling confused or anxious.
Signs include:
- Pacing
- Night waking
- Barking or meowing at “nothing”
- Clinginess or hiding
Read more on Dog Anxiety: Signs to Watch for and How to Calm Your Dog
You can help by:
- Setting up a quiet, obstacle-free zone in the house
- Keeping lights on at night for vision-impaired pets
- Keeping routines calm and consistent
- Adding calming supplements
PetWell CALM is packed with gentle, natural ingredients that help ease stress while supporting the nervous system and immune health. It’s especially helpful during thunderstorms or when routine changes.
Extra Tip: More Time with You Means More Peace for Them
One of the best things you can do for your senior pet. Simply be there.
Your presence makes them feel secure, especially when their senses begin to fade. Cuddles, calm energy, and quiet time go a long way toward helping them feel safe, seen, and loved.
Because in the end, they don’t care about toys or supplements as much as they care about you.
Read more on How to Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy
FAQs About Ageing Dogs and Cats
At what age is a pet considered senior?
Dogs and cats are generally considered senior around 7 years, though larger dog breeds may show signs earlier.
Do older pets sleep more?
Yes! Increased sleep is normal, but extreme lethargy or confusion may indicate health concerns.
What’s the best supplement for older dogs and cats?
PetWell MOBILITY (joints), DIGEST (gut), and CALM (anxiety) are top choices to support ageing naturally.
Can senior pets get dementia?
Yes, cognitive decline is common in older pets. Look for confusion, pacing, or changes in behaviour. Supplements and routines can help.
What is a titer test for dogs or cats?
A titer test checks your pet’s antibody levels to see if they still have immunity from past vaccines. It helps prevent over-vaccination, especially important for senior pets.
Disclaimer: The entire contents of PetWell emails and website are not to be taken as medical advice. The team at Pet Squad Pty Ltd trading as PetWell encourages you to make your own pet health care decisions based on your research and in partnership with a qualified pet healthcare professional.
Posted By Ayda Hornak - Trained in Canine Psychology and Natural Animal Nutrition Care
