
As the UK’s population of ageing pets continues to grow, veterinary professionals are increasingly called upon to provide expert guidance and care for senior pets.Â
Establishing a comprehensive, standardised geriatric assessment protocol is critical to maintaining quality of life, detecting age-related conditions early, and supporting informed decision-making as pets approach their end-of-life stage.Â
From physical examinations to cognitive and behavioural evaluations, a structured approach can help veterinary teams deliver consistent, high-quality care that meets the unique needs of older animals.
Why Standardised Geriatric Assessments Matter
A dedicated geriatric assessment protocol ensures no aspect of an older pet’s health is overlooked. Such standardisation improves the consistency and accuracy of diagnoses and helps veterinary professionals track changes over time.Â
This is especially important in senior pets that may have multiple health issues, ranging from arthritis and dental disease to cognitive decline and behavioural changes. By routinely implementing a geriatric protocol, veterinary teams can:
Identify subtle signs of emerging health problems
Provide proactive interventions and personalised management plans
Enhance communication with clients by offering clear, evidence-based recommendations
Support end-of-life planning and palliative care initiatives, including in-home euthanasia services
Structuring the Geriatric Check-Up
A comprehensive geriatric assessment for senior pets should include the following key components:
Medical History Review
Start by gathering a detailed medical history, focusing on changes since the last visit. Enquire about appetite, mobility, toileting habits, and any new or worsening behavioural issues. Encourage clients to report subtle symptoms that might indicate early cognitive or physical decline. Electronic health records and standardised questionnaires can streamline this process and ensure that no vital information is missed.
Physical Examination
A thorough physical examination is the cornerstone of any geriatric protocol. Pay special attention to:
Musculoskeletal System
Check joints for signs of stiffness, pain, or reduced range of motion, which may indicate osteoarthritis.
Oral Health
Examine teeth and gums for dental disease, often a source of chronic discomfort and infection in older pets.
Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems
Listen for murmurs, arrhythmias, and changes in respiratory patterns. Early detection can be lifesaving.
Vision and Hearing
Assess eyes and ears for cloudiness, discharge, and responsiveness to stimuli. Sensory decline is common and can impact a pet’s behaviour and safety. Use an opthalmoscope to check for cataracts, retinal haemorrhage or detachment.
Weight and Body Condition
Monitor body weight and condition regularly. Geriatric pets are prone to weight fluctuations due to changes in metabolism, mobility, and appetite.
Laboratory Testing
Routine diagnostic tests form an integral part of the geriatric assessment. Blood tests (including a complete blood count, serum biochemistry, and electrolyte panels) can reveal underlying conditions such as kidney disease or thyroid imbalances. Urinalysis, blood pressure measurement, and, where appropriate, imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound or X-rays) can offer valuable insights into chronic illnesses and guide treatment plans.
Cognitive and Behavioural Evaluations
Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is increasingly recognised in ageing pets, manifesting as confusion, disorientation, disrupted sleep patterns, and changes in social interactions. Incorporate behavioural questionnaires and cognitive screening tools into your protocol. Assess changes in routine behaviours, house training habits, interaction with family members, and response to familiar commands. Identifying early signs of cognitive decline allows for targeted interventions, such as environmental modifications, supplements, or medications that may improve quality of life.
Nutritional Assessment
Evaluate the pet’s current diet and nutritional intake. Senior pets often require specialised diets to maintain ideal weight, support joint health, and promote cognitive function. Offering personalised dietary advice can make a significant difference in the animal’s overall well-being.
Pain and Mobility Assessment
Pain in older pets can be subtle and often goes unrecognised. Incorporate validated pain scoring tools into your examination and discuss any observed changes in mobility or discomfort with the client. Early intervention—through pain management medications, physiotherapy, or mobility aids—can greatly enhance comfort and prolong a pet’s active years.
Communicating with Clients
Clients may be unaware of the significance of subtle changes in their pet’s behaviour or energy levels. Clear, empathetic communication is essential. Use simple explanations, visuals (such as body condition scoring charts), and printed handouts to help clients understand the importance of regular senior check-ups.Â
Emphasise that proactive geriatric assessments can detect issues before they become severe, ultimately improving outcomes and extending the quality of their pet’s life.
Integrating End-of-Life Care Considerations
Geriatric assessments also provide an opportunity to discuss end-of-life care options, including in-home euthanasia services.Â
As pets age, it’s crucial to prepare clients for potential scenarios and help them understand when their companion may be approaching a stage where comfort and quality of life take precedence over treatment.Â
Having these sensitive conversations early and transparently fosters trust and ensures clients feel supported, especially if difficult decisions arise.
Training the Veterinary Team
Implementing a thorough geriatric assessment protocol requires a well-trained veterinary team. Ensure all staff—veterinary surgeons, nurses, and support personnel—understand the key components of the senior check-up. Regular training sessions and access to updated guidelines and resources will ensure each member of the team can confidently perform their role in delivering exceptional senior pet care.
Setting a standardised protocol for comprehensive geriatric assessments empowers veterinary professionals to deliver more effective, consistent, and compassionate care to senior pets.Â
By integrating thorough physical examinations, cognitive and behavioural evaluations, routine laboratory testing, and sensitive end-of-life planning into each check-up, you can dramatically improve the well-being of ageing animals.Â
This proactive, structured approach enhances client trust, supports informed decision-making, and ultimately helps pets enjoy their golden years with dignity, comfort, and quality of life.
Are you looking to improve your knowledge of end-of-life care for your patients? In our short three-part course, our lead veterinarian and end-of-life care vet, Dr Emma Clark, teaches you all about caring for elderly and/or terminally ill pets. Learn more here.
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