Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) skipper Rishabh Pant will play his team's match against Punjab Kings (PBKS), thus allaying injury fears ahead of the important match. During LSG's match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on 15 April, Rishabh Pant was hit on his left arm after facing a short length
Who is Kajal Meena? Rajasthan SDM and RAS topper arrested for accepting bribeKajal Meena, an IIT graduate, was held by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on April 16, along with two others. Updated on: Apr 19, 2026 5:10 PM IST By Arya Mishra Share via Copy link A sub-divisional magistrate in
It’s one thing to reach the summit. Staying there is the real test. And right now, Jannik Sinner isn’t backing down from either. Fresh off his Monte Carlo triumph, the newly crowned World No. 1 has confirmed his participation at the Madrid Open
Govt okays ₹12,980-crore maritime insurance poolThe decision will help lower costs for Indian vessels as global underwriters have hiked risk-mitigation charges to historic highs due to the war in West Asia. Published on: Apr 19, 2026 1:44 PM IST By Zia Haq
Milk sits quietly at the centre of Indian households, poured into morning tea, stirred into children’s routines, and trusted almost instinctively as a source of nutrition. But that trust, increasingly, is being questioned. According to Food Safety and Standards Authority of India
Is your dog or cat getting old? These simple gestures could help them live longer, happier lives
By Sara Hoummady, UniLaSalle
Geriatric veterinary care is in great shape, with dogs and cats living on average 11.3 years, according to French data. Our knowledge of how to accompany them in later life is expanding fast. We now know that simple changes can do wonders for an old cat or dog's comfort and quality of life. The main trick is for pet owners not to stand by idly as their four-legged companions age.
At what age can my dog or cat be considered old?
A study of over two million cats and four million dogs has enabled us to better define their different life stages.
Cats enter old age at around 10 years old. This period is then divided into mature, senior and super-senior stages.
The same study points out that it's less uniform for dogs, for whom old age depends heavily upon size.
Small dogs enter their third age at around 7 years old, then become seniors at around 12 years old.
Medium to large dogs weighing more than 9 kg, such as Welsh Corgis, Golden Retrievers and Australian Shepherds, for example, reach this stage earlier: around 6.
Not to panic, however: the new stage needn't mean that the end is near. Rather, it may just be time to pay greater attention to your pet and to gradually adjust their environment, medical and care routine to help them age in the best possible conditions.
What is healthy ageing? How can you assess it in your pet?
But before we even talk about “healthy ageing”, it's useful to recall what ageing is: a natural, gradual and inevitable process. Over time, animals become less tolerant of environmental stress, and their cells accumulate damage, leading to various physiological changes.
So, what do we mean by a dog or cat ageing “in good health”? A recent consensus article in which I participated offers a definition adapted to our pets: an elderly animal in good health is one that retains sufficient capacity and resilience to meet its physical, behavioural, social and emotional needs, while maintaining a stable and positive relationship with its human.
Some signs are completely normal: greying hair, slight tartar build-up, thinner skin, and slightly duller senses–these bear no noticeable impact on quality of life.
On the other hand, mobility issues that hinder access to resources should not be considered simply as signs of ageing.
The same goes for the first signs of cognitive dysfunction when a dog or cat struggles to find its food bowl or seems lost in the house, for example. These cases call for veterinary advice.
Quality of life, therefore, becomes the central criterion for assessing whether an animal is ageing harmoniously. In dogs and cats, the concept of frailty, derived from human geriatrics, is now used.
How can you assess your pet's frailty?
-
Animals classified as frail are more prone to developing diseases and should be monitored more closely.
The major advantage of this approach is that, as in humans, frailty detected early can sometimes be mitigated. Hence, the importance of regular screening and early support to best care for our elderly companions.
Some adjustments to be made
-
The first step is to make the animal's environment more accessible so that it can easily reach all its resources: food, water, resting and hiding spots, contact areas, etc. A few props and adjustments can make a real difference, including small steps to climb onto the sofa, armchairs, firm and low cushions, or raised bowls for dogs and cats suffering from osteoarthritis, etc.
Increasing the number of access points is also useful: two or three feeding areas, several places to sleep, and more litter trays that are easy to step over. Some commercial litter trays are too high for cats with osteoarthritis; a wide tray with a low rim can be much more comfortable.
Maintaining a calm and positive relationship is essential. Behaviour that is considered “undesirable” should always be investigated by a vet and a behaviourist : it may reflect a need, discomfort or difficulty. A cat that scratches the carpet rather than its scratching post, for example, may simply be looking for a less painful position.
Some animals also become more anxious or reactive with age or certain medical conditions; it is therefore important to understand the cause rather than punish them, at the risk of damaging the relationship and failing to resolve the issue.
Cognitive and physical stimulation must continue, but be adapted to the animal's abilities. “Puzzle feeders” are still useful, provided they are chosen according to the animal's condition: a scratch mat or an interactive bowl that can be pushed by the nose is preferable to a system that requires complex leg movements.
Games, learning and small training sessions are still beneficial; sometimes it is enough to shorten the sessions and use very enticing rewards .
Walks can be adapted, in particular by using comfortable and safe bags to carry the dog when it is too tired, either for part or all of the walk. The important thing is to continue to give the animal access to the outdoors.
Finally, diet is key when caring for older animals. Ageing leads to changes in digestion and a gradual loss of muscle mass. It is therefore recommended to choose a diet that is easily digestible, has a smell and taste that appeals to your pet, and is specifically formulated for the needs of senior animals.
Raw meat should be avoided: it's often unbalanced in terms of minerals, which can be harmful to older animals, who are particularly sensitive to excess phosphorus or inappropriate calcium/phosphorus ratios. They also present an increased health risk, as their immune systems are less effective.
On the other hand, combining dry food and wet food is often beneficial. A cooked, homemade meal can also help an animal regain its appetite. And for the fussiest eaters, a simple trick may suffice: warm the wet food slightly to enhance its smell and make it more appealing.
When should you see your vet?
-
Regular vet check-ups are still essential, particularly to keep up to date with vaccinations and worming. Ageing weakens the immune system, making senior animals more vulnerable and requiring regular protection against infectious diseases and parasites.
Geriatric consultations aim to monitor the ageing process, which is unique to each individual. The first consultation is often the longest to allow for an in-depth discussion and include additional tests where necessary.
These initial findings will serve as a reference for follow-up visits. Ideally, this monitoring should begin at the start of the third age. The frequency of consultations then depends on the animal's trajectory: every six months if signs of frailty appear, or once a year if its condition remains stable.
The challenge is no longer just to extend the lifespan of our furry friends, but to, above all, prolong their health. After all, we want them to enjoy it as long as possible, just as we would for humans. SKS SKS SKS
This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
Source: HindustanTimes
Related Posts: Dogs and cats can also suffer from allergies From leopard faeces to dogs disguised as big cats Aneet Padda spends time with adorable dogs and cats at animal shelter Where do pet cats come from Taylor Swift turns Jason Kelce’s ‘cats are poisonous’ joke into a cuddly win Move From Self-Care To Public Care The Line’ Takes Shape Can NDA’s Bihar Strategy Shape Its Fortunes In Bengal And Tamil Nadu Love may shape your waistline 10 decor trends to shape homes in 2026
T-Series founder Gulshan Kumar’s brother Darshan Kumar dies at 70; Mika Singh pays emotional tributeDarshan Kumar, brother of T-Series founder Gulshan Kumar, passed away in Delhi at 70, leaving the music industry mourning his legacy. Apr 19, 2026
1 days ago
Suicides at NIT Kurukshetra: CPI-M MP Brittas seeks Education Minister's interventionSuicides at NIT Kurukshetra: CPI-M MP Brittas seeks Education Minister's intervention Published on: Apr 19, 2026 11:51 AM IST PTI Share via Copy link New Delhi
1 days ago
The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Saturday gave its approval for the continuation of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-III (PMGSY-III) beyond March 2025 upto March 2028. It involves consolidation of Through Routes and Major Rural Links connecting habitations to
1 days ago
Odisha gets India’s first 3D glass chip packaging plantThe facility set up by US-based 3D Glass Solutions Inc. (3DGS) at Info Valley in Bhubaneswar is worth ₹1,943 crore Published on: Apr 19, 2026 4:51 PM IST By Debabrata Mohanty, Bhubaneswar Share via Copy link Odisha chief minister Mohan
1 days ago
Chennai Super Kings seized control early, winning the PowerPlay battle against Sunrisers Hyderabad on its own turf – something few teams manage with such authority. Even after losing Sanju Samson early, it surged ahead thanks to Ayush Mhatre’s blistering 13-ball 30
1 days ago
Pune dermatologist explains how to decide what hair loss treatment is right for you: Hair transplant, PRP or GFCDr Chavan says hair restoration choices depend on follicle health – PRP and GFC work on existing follicles, while transplants are for advanced baldness. Published on: Apr 19
1 days ago
A Delhi-based entrepreneur has sparked online debate after sharing a raw and honest look at what startup life is really like behind the scenes. Nikhil Gaur, founder of Hypeschool, shared a video on Instagram showing himself arriving at his office at 5 am
1 days ago
For many years, liver disease has been closely associated with alcohol consumption. However, this is no longer the full picture. Today, doctors are increasingly diagnosing liver disease in people who rarely or never consume alcohol. This condition
1 days ago
Like everyone else, I cannot wait for Sunday's massive game between Manchester City and Arsenal. From a manager's perspective, both teams have many strengths and very few weaknesses. The same applies to the two men who are in charge of them.Like everyone else
1 days ago
Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan underwent surgery on Saturday evening following a health complication, leaving his fans concerned. Now, megastar Chiranjeevi has shared a health update on his brother, Pawan Kalyan, confirming that he is safe, stable
1 days ago
Gold, silver prices on Akshaya Tritiya 2026: Check latest rates in Delhi, Mumbai, other citiesIf you’re planning to buy jewellery, keep in mind that the final price may be higher, as jewellers typically add making charges and GST to the base rate. Updated on: Apr 19
1 days ago
The self-enumeration portal for the ongoing Census had been showing Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh as a Chinese town named Medog, a retired Indian Air Force officer pointed out on Saturday. Hours later, census officials said the error had been resolved
1 days ago
Iran's Parliament Speaker claimed its forces neutralized 180 drones and targeted a US F-35 stealth fighter, signaling advanced defense capabilities. He linked these military developments to ongoing indirect talks with Washington, stating that while some consensus exists, major differences persist
1 days ago
‘Extraordinary’ security measures in Pakistan ahead of potential second round of US-Iran talksAuthorities have announced that from Sunday midnight, several sensitive areas surrounding Nur Khan Airbase and Islamabad International Airport will be sealed. Published on: Apr 19
1 days ago
The poll body noted that over 11,000 violative social media posts have been addressed since March 15, while 3,10,393 complaints were resolved via the C-Vigil app, highlighting a 96.01% resolution rate within 100 minutes. New Delhii: The (ECI) on Saturday reiterated strict compliance with legal
1 days ago
To understand why India’s China deficit keeps growing, you have to go back further than last year’s trade data. You have to go back 35 years — to 1990, when India and China were, by most measures, economic equals. New Delhi: There is a number buried inside India’s FY26 trade data that
1 days ago
Blinkit vs Instamart vs roadside vendor: Gurgaon woman reveals cheapest grocery optionA Gurgaon woman compared grocery prices and found roadside vendors were cheaper than Blinkit and Instamart. Published on: Apr 19, 2026 4:08 PM IST By Mahipal Singh Chouhan Share via Copy link A Gurgaon woman has
1 days ago
Who was Liv Perrotto? Elon Musk fulfils cancer-struck teen's last wish in heartfelt gestureElon Musk responded to 15-year-old cancer patient Liv Perrotto's questions, revealing he won't develop his own phone and sharing his love for anime. Published on: Apr 19
1 days ago
SSLC grading row: K'taka government files review petition in HCSSLC grading row: K'taka government files review petition in HC Published on: Apr 18, 2026 11:10 PM IST PTI Share via Copy link Bengaluru, The Karnataka government has filed a review petition in the High Court against a single judge
1 days ago
Kamal Haasan urges Centre to implement women's reservation bill without linking it to delimitationKamal Haasan said that if we are serious about women’s empowerment, 33% reservation must be implemented immediately. Apr 19, 2026, 17:12:50 IST By Santanu Das Share via Copy link Actor and Makkal
1 days ago
Northeast woman shares how gifting a jhaadu to Delhi landlord changed their relationship: 'United by jhaadu'A Northeast woman shared how gifting a jhaadu transformed her relationship with her landlord in Delhi. Updated on: Apr 19, 2026 4:25 PM IST By Bhavya Sukheja Share via Copy link A
1 days ago
TCS case: Kin of accused call him ‘high-performer’; blame office politics, jealousy for allegationsTCS case: Kin of accused call him ‘high-performer’; blame office politics, jealousy for allegations Published on: Apr 19, 2026 4:49 PM IST PTI Share via Copy link Nashik
1 days ago
Beer Price India: The ongoing conflict in West Asia has intensified pressure on the Indian beer sector, triggering a sharp rise in input costs, supply disruptions and continued pricing restrictions. Vivek Gupta, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of United Breweries Ltd
1 days ago
Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserted that the West Bengal assembly election is a fight to preserve the state's identity, accusing the Mamata Banerjee government of favoring "infiltrators" over native populations. He alleged the TMC aims to form a "government of infiltrators and for infiltrators
1 days ago
New Delhi, Apr 19 (PTI) Delhi Traffic Police has booked 269 people for drunk driving during a special integrated night checking across the national capital, officials said on Sunday. The three-hour operation was conducted between 9 pm and midnight on Saturday in coordination with local police and
1 days ago
New Delhi:The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced that multiple state governments will raise a total of Rs 16,900 crore through the revised auction of State Government Securities (SGS), scheduled to be conducted on April 21. According to the Central Bank release
1 days ago
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned a US decision to extend the period during which Russia is allowed to sell oil despite Western sanctions. The move means countries can purchase Russian oil and petroleum products already loaded on vessels at sea until 16 May
1 days ago
