When Is It More Than Just Age? Differentiating Between Senior Slowing Down and Illness

As pets grow older, it’s natural for them to slow down. They may nap more, play less, or take their time getting up from bed. But how do you know if it’s just part of the ageing process—or a sign that something more serious is going on? Many pet owners worry they’ll miss the early signs of illness, mistaking them for simple old age. 

This guide explains how to spot the difference between normal slowing down and changes that warrant a veterinary check-up.

Contents

• What Does Normal Ageing Look Like in Pets?

• Signs That Might Signal an Underlying Health Problem

• Conditions Often Mistaken for Ageing

• Behavioural Changes: Confusion or Something More?

• When to See Your Vet

• FAQs

What Does Normal Ageing Look Like in Pets?

Just like humans, pets go through gradual physical and behavioural changes as they get older. These are typically subtle and slow to develop, often becoming more noticeable from the age of seven onwards in most dogs and cats, or even earlier in rabbits and giant breed dogs.

Common signs of natural ageing include:

• Slower movement or reluctance to run and jump

• Greying fur around the muzzle or face

• Increased sleep time and a more relaxed pace

• Mild hearing or vision loss

• Stiffness after rest, especially in the morning or cold weather

These changes don’t necessarily mean your pet is unwell. Many older pets live full, happy lives with a little extra care and attention. However, it’s important not to dismiss new symptoms as “just old age” without proper evaluation.

Signs That Might Signal an Underlying Health Problem

Some symptoms that appear age-related are actually signs of treatable illness or pain. Pay close attention to:

• Sudden or dramatic changes in energy

• Limping, stiffness, or difficulty rising that worsens over time

• Changes in appetite or thirst—eating more, less, or not at all

• Toileting accidents or sudden incontinence

• Weight loss or muscle wasting

• Persistent coughing, panting, or laboured breathing

• Isolation, irritability, or changes in interaction

These changes could be linked to arthritis, organ disease, infections, or more serious conditions such as cancer or cognitive decline. If symptoms develop quickly or continue to worsen, they should never be written off as “normal” ageing.

Conditions Often Mistaken for Ageing

Several common illnesses in senior pets can present with vague or gradual symptoms, making them easy to confuse with the natural ageing process.

Examples include:

• Arthritis – May cause reluctance to move, climb stairs, or get into the car.

• Dental disease – Can reduce appetite or cause weight loss due to oral pain.

• Kidney or liver disease – Often presents with increased thirst, urination, and general lethargy.

• Heart disease – May cause coughing, fatigue, or shortness of breath after even brief activity.

• Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism – Affects energy levels, appetite, and coat condition.

• Cancer – Can cause general malaise, weight loss, or specific symptoms depending on the organ affected.

If your pet shows signs that don’t fit their usual ageing pattern—or if they’re declining faster than expected—it’s time to check in with your vet.

Behavioural Changes: Confusion or Something More?

Ageing doesn’t just affect the body—it can impact your pet’s brain too. Cognitive changes in senior pets are increasingly recognised and can resemble dementia in humans.

Possible signs of Canine or Feline Cognitive Dysfunction include:

• Pacing, confusion, or staring into space

• Toileting in unusual places despite prior housetraining

• Changes in sleep patterns, such as restlessness at night

• Increased vocalisation, especially in the evening

• Disorientation or appearing “lost” in familiar places

These signs are not “just old age” and should not be ignored. While there’s no cure, supportive care and medications can often slow progression and improve your pet’s comfort and quality of life.

When to See Your Vet

It’s always best to seek veterinary advice when something changes in your pet’s behaviour, appetite, or energy level—particularly if the change is new or has worsened over time.

Contact your vet if:

• Your pet suddenly slows down or becomes withdrawn

• They stop eating or drinking normally

• You notice persistent stiffness, limping, or breathing changes

• There are changes in toileting habits or signs of pain

• Weight loss or muscle wasting becomes apparent

• Behaviour changes interfere with their normal routine

Early intervention can make a significant difference—not only in treatment success but in helping your pet live well in their senior years.

FAQs

Isn’t it normal for older pets to sleep more?

Yes, many senior pets sleep longer. However, extreme lethargy or refusal to engage in normal activities may suggest an underlying issue and should be investigated.

My pet is stiff in the morning—could it be arthritis?

Morning stiffness is a common sign of arthritis, especially in dogs. Your vet can recommend pain relief and supportive care to keep your pet mobile and comfortable.

When should I worry about changes in appetite?

Any consistent change in appetite—especially refusal to eat, increased hunger, or picky eating—warrants veterinary attention. It may indicate dental pain, organ disease, or other conditions.

Is it possible my pet has dementia?

Yes. Pets can develop cognitive dysfunction as they age, particularly dogs and cats over ten years old. Signs include confusion, changes in sleep, and loss of housetraining.

How can I support my ageing pet?

• Keep them at a healthy weight with a balanced senior diet

• Provide gentle exercise suited to their abilities

• Maintain regular vet checks (every six to twelve months)

• Use ramps, non-slip flooring, and comfy beds

• Monitor closely for changes and act early