Senior Pet Care in NZ: Best Nutrition & Exercise Tips for Older Cats and Dogs

As our furry friends enter their golden years, their care needs evolve—much like ours. From slowed-down walks to extra joint support, senior pets (usually 7+ years of age) thrive on gentle, attentive care. At Petdirect, we get pet, and we know that helping your senior cat or dog age gracefully starts with the right nutrition and exercise. Here's your go-to guide for keeping your senior pet happy, healthy, and comfortable well into their twilight years.

Understanding The Needs Of Senior Pets

Senior pets often experience gradual changes in metabolism, mobility, dental health, and cognitive function. These changes can affect how they eat, move, and socialise. You may notice more naps in sunny spots, hesitation climbing stairs, or subtle stiffness during movement. That’s when tailored support helps make all the difference.

In New Zealand, where seasons shift from brisk winter chill to vibrant summer days, seasonal care considerations also matter. Think warm bedding in chilly months or hydration support during summer. Thoughtful tweaks to routine can help them feel their best all year round.

Best Nutrition Tips For Senior Cats And Dogs

Senior pets benefit from diets that support joint health, cognitive function, immune strength, and weight management. Look for recipes rich in omega fatty acids, antioxidants, and high-quality proteins—but lower in calories compared to adult food. Some top options include:

• Hill's Science Diet formulas for senior dogs and cats, crafted with age-specific nutrients
• Royal Canin Senior ranges, which cater to breed and size-specific aging
• ZIWI for high-meat, gently air-dried whole-prey nutrition
• Joint and skin support supplements like omega-3s and glucosamine blends

For picky eaters, toppers and wet food can help boost appetites. Check out our pet toppers to add a flavourful, nutrient-rich boost to their meals. And don’t forget regular hydration—many senior pets appreciate pet water fountains to encourage more drinking, especially in warmer months.

Gentle Exercise Ideas For Elderly Pets

Exercise still plays an important role for senior pets, although it may look a little different than their younger, zoomie-filled days. The goal is to keep them moving, but not overdoing it. Great senior exercise options include:

• Shorter, more frequent walks on soft surfaces
• Gentle indoor play sessions with soft dog plush toys or cat plush toys
• Low-impact interactive games like food puzzles
• Swimming—great for joints and cardiovascular health

Encouraging movement within comfort limits is key. Some senior pets benefit from functional outings, such as sniffaris (gentle scent walks) or pottering around the garden. Always observe how your pet responds and adjust accordingly.

Supportive Supplements And Health Checks

Wellness for senior pets involves more than just food and fun; supplements can help give their aging bodies a little extra TLC. For example, joint support supplements can help with stiffness and mobility, while senior cat supplements can promote overall vitality.

Products like 4CYTE and VetPlus are options many NZ pet parents explore for supplementing joint health and more. As with any health decision, it's important to check with your vet, especially if your pet has a pre-existing condition or takes medication.

Also consider more frequent vet checks—aim every 6–12 months. Catching changes early helps your senior pet stay comfortable for as long as possible.

Everyday Comforts To Enhance Their Quality Of Life

Besides food and fitness, small comforts go a long way. These could be as simple as a cosy orthopaedic dog bed or soft cat bedding, or a ramp to help them onto furniture or into vehicles more easily.

Don’t forget the little things—like low-fat treats for training or just-because moments, calming aids for pets prone to anxiety, or hydration support for pets less inclined to drink.

At Petdirect, we’re here to help you tailor every aspect of care for your senior pet. From nutrition to play, we’re your partner in every paw-step of their journey. After all, we get pet.

Age Gracefully Together

Caring for a senior pet is a beautifully rewarding chapter, filled with opportunities to return the unconditional love they’ve shared with you. Thoughtful nutrition, gentle movement, regular health checks, and creature comforts can add pep to their step and light to their eyes, even well into their senior years.

Explore our selection of age-appropriate pet food, supplements, and accessories that support healthier aging. You can also join our Pet Perks programme and earn Airpoints with every order. Because when it comes to giving your pet their best senior years, you’re not alone—we’re with you every paw of the way.