Tip 1: Support joints and movement with simple home updates

Senior pets can develop stiffness, arthritis, or reduced balance. The goal is not to “push through it,” but to make everyday movement feel safer and more predictable.

Quick win: Add one non-slip mat or runner where your pet slips most.

Helpful tweaks that support Senior Pet Care at home:

• Use a low-entry bed or add a step for couches and favorite spots

• Keep food and water in an easy-to-reach, low-traffic area

• Choose more frequent, shorter walks or play sessions instead of one long outing

If your pet hesitates on stairs, avoids jumping, or seems sore after resting, that is worth discussing at a wellness visit.

Tip 2: Refresh nutrition and track weight like a monthly habit

As pets age, calorie needs and digestion can change. Weight gain can worsen joint pain, and unexpected weight loss can be a sign something is going on beneath the surface.

Quick win: Weigh your pet once a month and jot it in your phone.

Try these Senior Pet Care-friendly habits:

• Measure meals instead of free-feeding

• Keep treats small and consistent

• Bring a list of current foods, treats, and supplements to your next appointment

A simple weight trend over time gives your veterinarian better context than a single number on a single day.

Tip 3: Make dental care part of your senior routine

Dental disease can affect comfort, appetite, and overall health, and many pets hide mouth pain well. Senior pets often benefit from a steady plan that includes at-home checks and professional guidance.

Quick win: Do a 10-second mouth check twice a week.

Look for:

• Red or irritated gums

• Bad breath that seems new or stronger

• Dropping food, chewing on one side, or eating more slowly

If you are unsure what you are seeing, a vet visit can help you decide what next steps make sense. Dental support is an important part of Senior Pet Care, especially when eating habits change.

Tip 4: Keep grooming calm, comfortable, and purposeful

Grooming is not just cosmetic. Gentle brushing helps you notice coat changes, matting, tender spots, and new lumps earlier. Older pets may also have a harder time grooming themselves.

Quick win: Brush for 2 minutes after a meal, when your pet is relaxed.

A simple routine can include:

• Brushing to reduce mats and support skin health

• Nail checks, since long nails can change posture and comfort

• A quick feel-over for new bumps or sensitive areas

If grooming suddenly becomes stressful, that change can be meaningful and worth mentioning during a wellness exam.

Tip 5: Plan wellness checkups around senior needs

Senior pets can change quickly, and issues like pain, organ changes, and dental disease may be easier to manage when caught early. Many senior pets benefit from wellness checkups more often than they did when they were younger.

Quick win: Keep a 7-day note when you notice a new behavior change.

Track:

• Appetite and water intake

• Sleep patterns and energy

• Mobility changes, like stiffness in the morning

For a broader overview of prevention and everyday care, Guidance from the AVMA shows how regular veterinary support helps pets thrive across life stages.

Local next steps for Senior Pet Care with Jupiter Veterinary Hospital and Urgent Care

Jupiter Veterinary Hospital and Urgent Care serves pet families in Jupiter and nearby communities including Jupiter, West Palm Beach, and Jensen Beach. Our team is a full-service veterinary hospital, open 6 days a week, and urgent care walk-ins are welcome, with urgent and emergency care during business hours when timing matters.

If you want help building a clear plan for your senior pet, Senior Pet Care is easier when you have a team that listens to your day-to-day observations and helps you prioritize what matters most. Ready to take the next step? Schedule an appointment.