Senior Pet Wellness - Supporting Aging Pets Through the Winter Months

As pets age, their needs change, and winter weather can present added challenges. Cold temperatures, reduced activity, and changes in routine may affect mobility, comfort, and overall wellbeing for senior dogs and cats.

Providing thoughtful support during the colder months can help aging pets stay comfortable, active, and content.

Supporting Joint Health

Joint stiffness and arthritis are common in senior pets, and colder weather can make symptoms more noticeable. Supporting joints with diet and supplementation may help improve mobility and comfort.

Veterinarians may recommend joint supplements that contain ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, or omega-3 fatty acids. Products such as Cosequin Maximum Strength Joint Health Supplement are often used to support joint function in aging pets.

In addition to dietary and lifestyle adjustments, some senior pets may benefit from targeted joint support supplements. For example, Synovial GMAX Joint Care Soft Chews for Dogs combine ingredients that help support joint lubrication and comfort, making them a helpful option for aging companions who may experience stiffness or decreased mobility.

Soft bedding such as the Cloud Pillow Dog Bed for dogs or the Catit Fluffy Bed for cats, along with limiting exposure to cold outdoor surfaces, can also help reduce joint discomfort.

Calming Support for Senior Pets

Older pets may experience increased anxiety or restlessness, especially during winter when routines shift, days are darker, and activity levels decrease. Calming aids may help support relaxation and emotional wellbeing.

Veterinarian-recommended calming products like Zylkene Behaviour Supplement Capsules are sometimes used to help pets cope with stress in a gentle way.  For high-stress periods like transitions, recovery, and the addition of new family members, refillable calming home diffusers like Adaptil for dogs and Feliway for cats release natural, species-specific relaxing and friendly pheromones for longer-term and multi-pet support. 

If you’re unsure whether it’s time to introduce calming aids to your pet’s routine,  Contact Us or speak to your veterinarian.

Senior-Friendly Activities and Indoor Exercise

While senior pets may not be as active as they once were, regular movement is still important. Gentle indoor activities such as short play sessions, slow-paced walks, or interactive toys can help maintain muscle strength and mental stimulation.

Making sure your senior pet gets consistent, low-impact exercise can support both physical and cognitive health during the winter months.

Special Diets and Nutrition Considerations

Senior pets often have unique dietary needs, including weight management, digestive support, or diets tailored for chronic conditions. Winter may also lead to weight changes due to reduced activity.

Targeted supplements and food additives like fish oil and natural freeze dried treats can be an important tool to filling caloric & nutritional gaps and enticing appetite, particularly in senior pets that have a tendency to undereat. Ask us for recommendations if your pet has specific dietary restrictions or preferences. Veterinarians may recommend senior-specific or prescription diets to support aging bodies. Before making significant changes to your pet’s diet and supplement routine, it is prudent to consult with your veterinarian. 

Partnering With Your Vet and Pharmacy

Ongoing veterinary care is especially important for senior pets. Regular checkups allow changes in health to be identified early and managed proactively.

If medications or supplements are prescribed, Pets Drug Mart can help support consistent access to treatment through prescription fulfillment, pharmacy guidance, and specialty compounding when needed. Custom compounding can help tailor medications to a pet’s specific dose or form, allowing pet parents to focus on comfort and care throughout every season. You can browse compounded medications here, or learn more about our Pharmacy here.

We’re Here to Help

Navigating a senior pet’s needs is an ongoing learning process, and our team is here to support you. Please feel free to Contact Us for guidance and recommendations, and browse more informative blogs here.