Senior Pet Check-Ups: Why They Matter

You may have noticed that your once-bustling pup or kitten, who has grown up with you for years, now spends most of its day sleeping. They pause a bit when climbing stairs, and prefer lying in a warm corner instead of playing...

However, there is a very clear rule in medicine: Aging is not a disease. Behind your pet's slowing down is often hidden joint pain, tired kidneys, or changing blood pressure. At Anka Veterinary Clinic, our geriatric care and regular check-ups focus on helping senior pets maintain comfort and quality of life as they age.

What You Will Learn in This Guide

1
When is Your Pet Considered "Senior"
2
Aging and Symptoms in Dogs
3
Aging and Silent Risks in Cats
4
What Does a Senior Check-Up Include
5
How Does Early Diagnosis Provide Comfort

01When is Your Pet Considered "Senior"

Cats: Usually start between 8-10 years; "senior" from 11 years and "super senior" over 15.
Small Dogs: breeds like Chihuahuas usually don't count as senior until 10-12 years.
Large Dogs: step into their senior period much earlier, around 6-7 years.

"We should research their silence not as part of aging, but as pain or fatigue they cannot tell us about."

02Aging and Symptoms in Dogs

Osteoarthritis: Difficulty getting up is treatable joint pain.
Cognitive Dysfunction: Barking for no reason at night can be a sign of pet alzheimer's.
Oral Health: Tartar can cause bacteria to attach to heart valves.

03Aging and Silent Risks in Cats

Kidney Disease: Visiting the litter box more often is a key signal.
Hyperthyroidism: Losing weight despite eating more must be checked.
Hypertension: High blood pressure is a main cause of sudden blindness in cats.

04What Does a Senior Check-Up Include

Full Blood & Biochemistry: Liver, kidney, and blood sugar levels.
SDMA Tests: Catching kidney damage months in advance.
Ultrasound & X-ray: Visualizing internal organ structures and heart size.

05How Does Early Diagnosis Provide Comfort

Our goal is not just to extend life, but to support comfort, calmness, and quality of life through early intervention and regular follow-up.

Note from Anka Veterinary: Senior Specialized

Mersin's humidity tires senior hearts. At our Mezitli clinic, we use the "Fear-Free" principle to ensure your senior pet's comfort during every screening.

Contact & Appointment

💡 Frequently Asked Questions

How often should a senior check-up be done?

At least once a year for those over 7, ideally every 6 months.

My cat never leaves the house, is a check-up needed?

Yes, internal metabolic issues like kidney failure don't depend on being outdoors.

Aging is Not a Disease: Why Senior Pets Need Regular Check-Ups