From 7 years of age (or 6+ years old if your dog is a large breed) your pet’s nutrition and
physical needs are changing.
Your pet may still act young, but after their seventh birthday dogs and cats enter their mature
years, the equivalent in human terms of entering your ‘fifties’.
Their nutritional and physical needs have changed enough that the feeding and exercise routine
you’ve been using may no longer be ideal. You can reduce the risk of health problems and help
your pet live a longer, happier life with regular veterinary care, exercise and nutrition specifically
designed to meet their changing needs.
If you pet is showing any of these signs you should seek veterinary advice:
• Are now 7+ years old (6+ for large breed dogs)
• Drinking more water
• Urinating more often
• Showing any lumps and bumps
• Suffering from bad breath
• Showing signs of weight loss or gain
• Resisting exercise / tires easily
• Showing any stiffness or limping
• Showing signs of behavioural change such as forgetting commands, house training or
becoming less interactive
Nutrition and Your Mature Pet
There are lots of unseen changes in a mature pet’s digestion, joints and metabolism. It is
important that you address these changes through a specially formulated food to help your pet
stay healthier for longer.
Back to basics
When taking your senior pet in the car, remember that their balance may become compromised
in a moving car. Make sure they are safely secured • Your older pet may lose their sense of
taste and smell, turning them into a picky eater. Feed them smaller, more frequent meals and
warm their food to help stimulate their senses and improve appetite
• The combination of regular check ups with your veterinarian, well balanced nutrition and
routine exercise appropriate for their age will help them stay healthier for longer
Keeping your pet active with exercise
Your Dog
• Daily walks, games of fetch and other moderate activities will ensure your dog stays mentally
and physically healthy
• Ask your veterinarian for other activity ideas based on your dog’s age and health condition
Your Cat
• Daily play time and other moderate activities will ensure you cat stays mentally and physically
healthy
• Ask your veterinarian for other activity ideas based on your cat’s age and health condition
Help your cat age gracefully
• Regularly brush your cat’s coat, clip nails and check ears
• Pay special attention to your pet’s teeth. Check with your veterinarian about regular
professional cleanings in addition to brushing or chews
Give your pet the best health care
• Continue to visit your vet every 6 – 12 months
• Check your pet’s health and ensure that vaccinations are current
• If your pet is suffering from diarrhoea, vomiting or other unusual symptoms contact your
veterinarian immediately
• Watch for signs of joint pain and other possible ailments that can result as part of ageing
For more from Hills check out there website: https://www.hillspet.com.au/