A new year is a wonderful time to check in on our older companions. Aging is natural, but persistent pain, stiffness, and changes in behavior should never be dismissed as “just getting old.”
Signs Your Pet May Be Uncomfortable
Watch for hesitation on stairs, reluctance to jump, difficulty rising, slower walks, slipping, reduced grooming in cats, irritability when touched, or changes in litter-box habits. Cats often hide discomfort; even subtle changes matter.
Winter Wellness at Home
Provide warm, draft-free bedding, nonslip rugs, ramps or steps, and easy access to food, water, and litter boxes. Encourage gentle, regular movement instead of strenuous bursts of activity. Keep nails trimmed and protect paws from ice and de-icing salts. Limit outdoor exposure during extreme cold, especially for frail or short-coated pets.
How Integrative Veterinary Care May Help
An individualized plan may combine appropriate pain management and rehabilitation with acupuncture, Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation (VOM), therapeutic cold laser, nutritional assessment, weight management, and carefully selected herbal or joint-support products. Evidence varies by therapy; these approaches should complement—not delay—diagnosis or established treatment when needed.
Nutrition Makes a Difference
Maintaining a lean body condition can reduce stress on painful joints. Senior pets also benefit from a balanced diet tailored to their muscle condition, kidney health, appetite, and medical needs. Ask us before changing diets or adding supplements, especially if your pet takes medications.
When to Schedule an Examination
Arrange an evaluation for new or progressive stiffness, weakness, limping, or behavior changes. Sudden inability to walk, severe pain, dragging limbs, or loss of bladder control requires urgent veterinary attention. A senior wellness visit may include an orthopedic and neurologic examination and recommended laboratory testing.
A New Year’s Wish
May this year bring more comfortable walks, peaceful naps, and joyful moments with the animals who share our lives. Every stage of life deserves compassionate, individualized care.
Dr. Linda T. Stern, DVM, MS Nutrition, CVA • Healing Creatures Holistic Animal Hospital