{"id":628,"date":"2025-11-12T20:56:32","date_gmt":"2025-11-13T01:56:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.truecareveterinaryhospital.com\/blog\/?p=628"},"modified":"2025-11-12T20:56:39","modified_gmt":"2025-11-13T01:56:39","slug":"managing-your-senior-pets-health-through-the-colder-months","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.truecareveterinaryhospital.com\/blog\/managing-your-senior-pets-health-through-the-colder-months\/","title":{"rendered":"Managing Your Senior Pet\u2019s Health Through the Colder Months"},"content":{"rendered":"
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When the temperatures plummet, senior pets feel it the most. Winter can bring stiff joints to our more elderly dogs and cats, along with altered appetites and even changes in weight. It\u2019s important to support your pet\u2019s body throughout the cooler months with thoughtful senior pet care. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

From the team at True Care Veterinary Hospital, here are 3 top tips for helping aging dogs and cats thrive, even in the winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

3 Aging Dog and Cat Health Tips for Winter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

1. Keep Your Pet Moving<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It can be harder for senior pets to move during the winter months<\/a>, and here\u2019s why: cold, damp, or dry conditions can make joint stiffness, swelling, and discomfort a lot worse in pets with arthritis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When they\u2019re in pain, pets won\u2019t want to move. But gentle, low-impact activity helps with your pet\u2019s circulation and can prevent some of that stiffness and pain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Opt for a slow walk around the neighborhood every afternoon\u2014or whenever the temperature\u2019s at its peak. Provide soft, warm bedding indoors to help your pet rest comfortably after each outdoor jaunt. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Pay Attention to Nutrition<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Most pets over the age of 6 or 7 should be eating a diet tailored for aging pets. Senior diets are specially formulated to offer better digestibility, the right balance of proteins, and key levels of fat and phosphorus. These foods can help your pet maintain a healthy body condition and support your pet\u2019s organs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If your pet is burning more calories to stay warm in the winter, you may need to up their calorie intake. Your veterinarian can help guide your pet\u2019s dietary choices. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to keep an eye on seasonal treats\u2014we\u2019ve got a few healthy suggestions on this list<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Remember Preventive Care<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The holidays can get busy, but preventive care is still important during the winter months. Senior pets should be getting two wellness exams per year\u2014or more if they have underlying health issues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here\u2019s what your veterinary team can monitor with preventive care: <\/p>\n\n\n\n