Why Semi-Annual Exams Matter for Senior Pets

Because our furry friends deserve the best care—at every age.

As our pets grow older, their needs change—and sometimes those changes are easy to miss. Unlike humans, dogs and cats can’t tell us when something feels off. Additionally they are excellent secret keepers.That’s why a proactive health check such as a semi-annual exam is so important for senior pets. This visit combines a thorough nose-to-tail physical exam with age-appropriate lab tests and blood pressure screening to find problems early—often before there are obvious signs at home.

What Is a “Senior” Pet?

• Cats: AAHA/AAFP designate life stages as mature adult (7–10 years) and senior (>10 years), with individualized judgment based on overall health; some cats may be considered senior as early as 8 years.[7][2]

• Dogs: Aging varies by breed and size. “Senior” and “geriatric” timing is individualized, and disease patterns shift by age cluster in large datasets, supporting life-stage–based care by species and size.[8][4][5]

Pets are considered seniors at different ages depending on their species and size.

• Cats: At 7-10 years, we consider cats “mature adults.” Any cat over 10 years old is a “senior” cat.
  
  
• Dogs: This will vary depending on breed and size, but generally speaking small or medium dogs get classified as “senior” around age 8-10, and for large or giant breed dogs sometimes as young as 6 years old will be considered “senior.”

These age ranges can vary, but once your pet hits their senior years, they benefit from more frequent veterinary checkups.

Why Twice a Year?

Pets age faster than people.For an adult cat, waiting one year between veterinary exams is similar to an adult human not seeing their physician for four years!  Health changes that seem minor or invisible can progress quickly without anyone noticing. A semi-annual exam allows us to:

 Detect age-related conditions early - large studies have shown us that at the first senior exam, around 20% of apparently healthy dogs and cats already have a new medical problem (like arthritis, kidney disease, hypertension, or dental problems).

 Monitor chronic health issues more closely.

 Adjust medications or diets as needed.

 Catch subtle signs of pain or decline in mobility.

 Run wellness lab work to check for internal issues.

Early detection often means more effective treatment, less invasive interventions, and a better quality of life for your senior companion.

What Happens at a Senior Pet Exam?

 A full nose-to-tail physical exam

 Age-appropriate bloodwork, urinalysis, fecal and other recommended testing as indicated

 Dental check

 Eyes, ears, and joint assessment

 Discussion of behavior, mobility, quality of life, and lifestyle changes

These appointments are also a great time to talk with us about supplements, diet changes, or home accommodations to keep your pet comfortable and happy.

The Bottom Line

Your senior pet has been by your side through so much—they deserve to age gracefully and comfortably. By scheduling semi-annual exams, you’re giving them the best chance at a longer, healthier life.

 Ready to make sure you keep older pets comfortable and thriving by finding issues early and personalizing their medical care? Then please - schedule your senior pet’s wellness exam! Call us today or book online—we’d love to see you both.

 610.649.4242

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