Healthcare services
Senior Pet Care
Tailored health care for older dogs and cats — catching age-related changes early so your pet stays comfortable, active, and happy for longer.
Getting older doesn't have to mean slowing down
Pets age faster than we do, and the health changes that come with older age can creep up quietly. Dogs are generally considered senior from around 7 years of age (earlier for large breeds), while cats enter their senior years at around 10–11.
At Vets in Frankston, we believe that proactive, regular care is the key to keeping senior pets feeling their best. With the right monitoring and management, many age-related conditions can be detected early — when they're far easier to treat — and your pet can continue to enjoy a great quality of life well into their golden years.
Why senior pets need different care
Conditions develop silently
Kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes, and hyperthyroidism often show no obvious signs until they're well advanced. Regular screening catches them before symptoms appear.
Things change quickly
A year in a senior pet's life is equivalent to several human years. What looked normal at last year's check-up may have changed significantly — more frequent visits make a real difference.
Medications need monitoring
Many senior pets are on long-term medications. Regular blood work ensures these are working effectively and not placing strain on the kidneys or liver.
Pain is often hidden
Arthritis and dental pain are extremely common in older pets, but animals instinctively hide discomfort. A thorough physical exam helps us identify and address pain your pet may not be showing.
What's included in a senior pet consultation
Senior health check package
Everything below for $349
One comprehensive appointment covering all the checks listed below — no hidden extras.
Full physical examination
A nose-to-tail assessment covering weight, body condition, heart and lung sounds, lymph nodes, abdomen, eyes, ears, teeth, skin, and coat.
Blood & urine screening
In-house blood panels check organ function (kidneys, liver), blood cell counts, thyroid levels, and blood glucose — giving us a clear picture of internal health.
Blood pressure monitoring
Hypertension is common in older cats and dogs and can cause serious damage to the eyes, kidneys, heart, and brain if left untreated.
Arthritis & mobility assessment
We assess gait, joint range of motion, and muscle condition to identify arthritis or other musculoskeletal issues, and discuss pain management options.
Dental health check
Dental disease affects the majority of pets over 3 years of age and worsens with age. We assess the mouth and discuss dental treatment if needed.
Weight & nutrition review
Senior pets have different nutritional needs. We assess body condition and discuss diet adjustments, supplements, and weight management where relevant.
Cognitive health discussion
Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (similar to dementia) affects many older dogs and cats. We discuss signs to watch for and management strategies.
Tailored care plan
Every senior pet is different. We'll put together a personalised monitoring and management plan based on your pet's individual needs and health findings.
How often should senior pets be seen?
We recommend senior pets visit us every 6 months rather than annually. Because pets age more quickly than humans, a lot can change in 12 months — a 6-monthly check-up is the equivalent of a person seeing their doctor every 2–3 years. More frequent visits also mean we build a detailed picture of your pet's individual baseline, making it easier to spot meaningful changes early.
Common conditions in senior pets
Many age-related conditions are very manageable when caught early. These are some of the most common things we monitor for in older dogs and cats.
Chronic kidney disease
One of the most common conditions in older cats. Early detection through blood and urine testing allows dietary and medical management to slow progression significantly.
Arthritis
Affects the majority of dogs and many cats over 8 years of age. Modern pain management options — including medications, joint supplements, and weight management — can make a huge difference to comfort and mobility.
Heart disease
Particularly common in older small-breed dogs. Regular cardiac auscultation and monitoring allows us to start treatment at the right time and manage the condition effectively.
Hyperthyroidism (cats)
Very common in older cats, causing weight loss, increased appetite, and hyperactivity. Highly treatable with medication, diet, or radioactive iodine therapy.
Diabetes mellitus
Manageable with insulin therapy and dietary changes. Early diagnosis through blood and urine testing leads to much better outcomes.
Dental disease
Causes chronic pain and can affect organ health through bacterial spread. Regular dental checks and professional cleaning under anaesthesia keep the mouth healthy.
Hypertension
High blood pressure is common in older pets, particularly cats with kidney disease or hyperthyroidism. It's easily screened for and well-controlled with medication.
Cancer
The risk of cancer increases with age. Early detection through physical examination, imaging, and cytology gives the best chance of successful treatment.
Common questions
Book a senior pet health check
Give your older pet the best chance at a long, comfortable life. Book a senior health check today.