The Ultimate Guide to Senior Pet Care in New Zealand: Tips for Ageing Dogs and Cats

Why Senior Pet Care Matters

Just like us, our pets slow down as they age. Greying muzzles, longer naps, and more cuddles on the couch often signal a new stage of life: the senior years. Whether you’re caring for a senior dog or a wise old cat, their needs begin to change and knowing how to support them is key to keeping them happy, healthy, and comfortable.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about senior pet care in New Zealand, from nutrition and grooming to behaviour changes and vet care. 

What Counts as a Senior Pet?

The term "senior" can vary depending on your pet’s size, species, and breed.

• Small dogs: 10+ years

• Medium dogs: 8+ years

• Large dogs: 6+ years 

• Cats: 7+ years

While these are helpful guidelines, each pet is unique. Some may show signs of ageing earlier or later and having regular vet check-ups can help track their health over time. 

1. Nutrition: Choosing the Right Senior Pet Food

A proper senior dog diet or senior cat food can make a big difference in your pet’s overall health and energy levels. As pets age, their metabolism slows, and they may develop dental issues, sensitive stomachs, or arthritis.

What to Look For:

• Lower calorie content to maintain a healthy weight 

• High-quality protein to support muscle mass 

• Added vitamins and minerals (like senior dog vitamins) 

• Omega-3 fatty acids for joint and cognitive support

• Digestible ingredients that are easy on the stomach

  Shop now:

• Dog food for senior dogs 

• Senior cat food 

• Liquid meal replacement for senior cats  

2. Health & Vet Visits: Stay Ahead of Ageing

Senior pets benefit from more frequent vet visits ideally every 6 months. These check-ups can detect early signs of common age-related conditions such as kidney disease, dental issues, or arthritis.

Ask Your Vet About:

• Routine bloodwork to monitor organ function

• Dental health and professional cleanings

• Joint supplements (e.g. glucosamine, chondroitin)

• Pain management and mobility treatments

Petdirect Tip: Keep a log of changes in appetite, thirst, mobility, or mood. Subtle signs often signal health shifts worth investigating. 

3. Exercise & Enrichment: Keep Them Moving and Mentally Sharp

Senior pets may not be as sprightly as they once were, but regular, gentle activity is still crucial for their well-being.

For Dogs:

• Shorter, more frequent walks on soft terrain

• Sniffing games and enrichment toys

• Swimming (low-impact exercise that’s easy on joints)

For Cats:

• Soft interactive toys

• Access to perches and scratching posts

• Puzzle feeders to stimulate the mind

 Explore our dog toys and enrichment tools 

4. Grooming and Hygiene: Comfort is Key

As pets age, they might need help with grooming especially if arthritis or dental issues make self-care difficult.

Senior Cat Grooming Tips:

• Use soft brushes to avoid irritating sensitive skin

• Watch for matted fur or dandruff

• Trim nails regularly if mobility is limited

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Senior Dog Grooming:

• Gentle shampoos for dry or flaky skin

• Regular nail trims to support mobility

• Check ears and paw pads for signs of irritation 

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5. Behaviour Changes: What’s Normal, What’s Not

As pets age, behaviour changes can be common but it’s important to recognise when something might be more serious.

Common Senior Cat Odd Behaviour:

• Increased vocalisation, especially at night

• Litter box accidents

• Changes in affection (clinginess or aloofness)

Senior Dog Behaviour Changes:

• Sleeping more (senior dogs may sleep 16–18 hours a day!)

• Anxiety or confusion in the evenings (often linked to cognitive decline)

• Sensitivity to cold or heat

If behaviour changes seem sudden or extreme, always consult your vet. 

6. Creating a Comfortable Home Environment

Small adjustments can make life easier and more enjoyable for your senior pet.

Simple Comfort Upgrades:

• Orthopaedic or memory foam beds

• Ramps or stairs to access sofas and beds

• Non-slip mats for hardwood floors

• Low-sided litter trays for arthritic cats

• Heated blankets or pads in cooler months

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7. Adopting a Senior Pet: A Beautiful Bond

Senior pets make wonderful companions. They’re often calm, loving, and already trained, ideal for families looking to skip the puppy or kitten stage.

If you’re open to adopting, local rescues like the SPCA NZ often have older pets waiting for their forever homes. 

Final Thoughts: Celebrate the Golden Years

Caring for a senior pet isn’t just about managing aging, it’s about embracing this special time with love, patience, and support. With the right food, health checks, gentle enrichment, and a comfy environment, your furry friend can thrive well into their twilight years.

We get pet. That’s why we’ve curated the best senior-friendly products to help you care with confidence.

 Shop NZ’s best range of senior pet products and give your golden oldie the love they deserve.