10 March 2025
Skin problems in cats
Cat
(After)care for senior dogs and cats
Seniors sometimes need a little extra care. Read in this blog when a dog or cat is considered a senior and how you can support your pet during recovery, health issues, and age-related conditions.
Health check for senior pets
As dogs and cats age, health issues such as heart disease, kidney failure, obesity, and joint pain (like arthritis) become more common. These age-related conditions often develop gradually, making them harder to notice. Cats, in particular, are skilled at hiding pain, so it’s important to watch for subtle signs.
Regular veterinary check-ups become essential as your pet enters their senior years. Did you know that cats are considered seniors between 11 and 14 years old, while dogs can be classified as seniors as early as 8 years old, depending on their breed and size (source: Anicura). From these ages onward, extra care and attention are crucial to keeping your loyal companion healthy and happy.
We all dream of our beloved four-legged friends living long, healthy, and happy lives—ideally for 100 years! After those playful puppy and kitten years, it’s easy to forget that aging brings its own challenges. As our pets grow older, they need just a little extra care each year to stay active, comfortable, and thriving.
(After)care for senior dogs and cats with health issues
As pets grow older, the likelihood of health problems increases. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for early detection and effective treatment of age-related conditions. Older pets, in particular, deserve extra comfort and care. Since 2013, the Recovery Suit® has been the #1 protective recovery wear for dogs and cats following medical procedures, skin conditions, excessive licking, and much more.
The senior phase of a pet’s life also requires some adjustments in care and lifestyle. This may include a specialized diet to support joints, digestion, or the immune system. While older dogs may be less active, regular movement is still essential for their health—adjust walks to their physical condition and avoid overexertion. For senior cats, consider floor traction and ensure their food, water, and litter box are easily accessible.
Why you shouldn’t use a collar for your senior pet
Senior pets tend to sleep more, move more stiffly, drink more, and eat less. During recovery from a medical procedure or condition, these challenges can intensify, making it even harder for your pet to get the rest, hydration, and nutrition they need. Adding a plastic collar (the “cone of shame”) into the mix can make your dog or cat feel even more miserable.
That’s why we designed the Recovery Suit®—a comfortable and stress-free alternative to the traditional collar. With Suitical products, recovering dogs and cats can move, eat, drink, sleep, and cuddle with ease while staying protected.
Choose comfort and freedom!
Traditional cone
- Restricts mobility
- No direct protection
- Raises stress levels
- Interferes with social interactions
- Amplifies sounds
Recovery Suit®
- Comfortable design, less stress
- Handmade, high-quality product
- Breathable, stretchy fabric
- Protects wounds and skin directly
- Stretchable and safe rims
Explore the full range
Pain and joint problems can make movement difficult for (older) dogs, causing them to spend more time lying down. However, prolonged lying can lead to another issue: pressure sores. To prevent or reduce this, ensure your dog has a soft and supportive surface to rest on. Additionally, the Recovery Double Sleeve® can help. These dual front leg sleeves feature an extra soft layer for added protection, offering more comfort and support.
Want to give your senior pet the best care? Discover Suitical’s complete assortment for a comfortable and stress-free recovery. Because a happy furry friend means a happy you!
