As the winter chill sets in across Everett, our older pets start to feel it more than most. Just like aging humans, senior dogs and cats become more sensitive to cold temperatures and damp conditions. Our veterinary experts at Everett Veterinary Hospital understand how the season can impact your pet’s comfort and mobility. We have veterinary support for senior cats and dogs, starting with compassionate, proactive care.
Why Do Senior Pets Struggle More in Winter?
Senior pets often face age-related issues like osteoarthritis, reduced mobility, and slower circulation. These challenges are compounded when the weather turns cold, making everyday movements harder and amplifying discomfort.
You might notice your aging cat or dog:
- Hesitating to go outside
- Struggling with stairs or getting on furniture
- Sleeping more or seeming “slower”
- Shivering or seeking warmth constantly
These signs are your pet’s way of saying, “I could use a little help.”
Winter Wellness Tips for Aging Cats and Dogs
Create a Warm, Comfortable Resting Spot
Senior pets need more warmth and support for their joints. Provide a soft, padded bed in a draft-free area of the home. Orthopedic cushions or raised beds can ease pressure on achy hips and knees.
Keep Your Pet Moving, But Gently
Exercise remains important for older pets to maintain muscle tone and prevent stiffness, but it’s best done in shorter, gentler sessions. For dogs, choose slow walks during the warmer parts of the day and avoid icy or slippery paths.
Keep Outdoor Trips Brief and Supervised
Older pets often lose body heat faster. Limit outdoor time in wet, windy, or especially cold conditions, and towel them dry immediately after being outside.
Support Their Joints with Nutrition
Certain senior pets benefit from specialty diets or supplements that can support joint health. Ask a veterinarian about options for how to best support your senior pet’s body through nutritional choices.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Extra weight puts strain on aging joints, while underweight pets may struggle to stay warm. With veterinary guidance, you adjust your aging pet’s diet to maintain an ideal weight while keeping in mind any medical conditions that your animal companion may have.
Stay on Schedule with Veterinary Checkups
Cold weather can aggravate hidden conditions like arthritis or early kidney issues. A senior pet wellness exam is the perfect time to adjust their care plan accordingly.
When to Call Your Veterinarian
Reach out if your senior pet shows signs like:
- Persistent limping or stiffness
- Loss of appetite
- Trouble getting up or lying down
- Behavioral changes (restlessness, irritability, confusion)
Quick care can prevent small issues from becoming more serious during the winter.
Treatment for Aging Pets with Arthritis and More in Everett, WA
Your senior pet has been by your side for years. Now, it’s your turn to return the favor with extra warmth, patience, and support. Winter doesn’t have to mean discomfort when you’re equipped with the right strategies and veterinary guidance. Everett Veterinary Hospital treats aging pets in Everett, including cats and dogs from Lynnwood, Edmonds, Everett, and nearby Washington areas. If your pet is suffering from arthritis or seems uncomfortable this season, schedule an appointment at Everett Veterinary Hospital.