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Growing Old, Still Has Heart: Tips for Keeping Senior Pets Healthy

As dogs and cats enter their senior years, their cardiovascular system naturally begins to decline, just like in humans. Taking careful care of their heart health early on helps senior pets enjoy a better quality of life and stay with us longer.

Watch for Warning Signs of Declining Heart Health

Senior pets with heart problems often tire more easily than before, become reluctant to go for walks or exercise like they used to, breathe heavily or cough frequently -- especially at night -- and may show intermittent lethargy. If you notice these signs, bring them to a veterinarian for an evaluation.

Get Regular Heart Health Checkups

Pets aged 7 and older should have annual heart health checkups, especially high-risk breeds. Checkups may include listening to the heart, chest X-rays, or cardiac ultrasound to thoroughly evaluate heart function.

Manage Diet and Exercise

A low-sodium diet with nutrients suited to senior pets helps reduce the workload on the heart. Combined with regular gentle exercise, such as short walks, this helps maintain a healthy body weight, which directly benefits heart function.

Improve Quality of Life for Senior Pets

Beyond medical care, creating a suitable environment -- such as a soft, comfortable bed, ramps instead of stairs, and reducing daily stress -- all help senior pets live happier lives.

If your pet is entering their senior years, schedule a heart health checkup at Thonglor Pet Hospital. Call 02-079-9999.