Holiday Senior Pet Care: Keep Your Older Dog Or Cat Healthy And Happy

As the holiday season approaches, many families in Billings begin decorating their homes, hosting gatherings, and planning winter travel. While this time of year brings joy and excitement, it can also create unexpected challenges for senior pets.

Older dogs and cats often struggle with changes in routine, cold temperatures, and the increased activity that accompanies the holidays. Understanding how their needs change and knowing what signs to look out for can make a significant difference in their quality of life.

In this holiday guide to senior pet care, we’ll explore how to protect your pet’s health during this merry season, recognize symptoms of chronic illness, and keep your furry family member comfortable, safe, and happy all winter long.

When is a cat or dog considered a senior?

Generally, most pets are considered seniors around age seven, although this can vary depending on the breed and size. Larger dogs, for example, may show signs of aging earlier than small dogs or cats. As pets age, their bodies process nutrients differently, mobility can decline, and underlying health conditions may begin to appear.

During the holidays, when schedules shift, the weather gets colder, and homes become busier, these age-related changes may become more noticeable. Understanding where your pet is in their life stage is the first step in providing thoughtful, proactive care.

How holiday stress affects senior pets

The holidays bring joy and excitement, but the extra noise and activity can be overwhelming for older pets. Here are some of the most common holiday-related stressors for senior dogs and cats:

• Crowded rooms and loud gatherings

• New decorations and bright, flashing lights

• Cold winter weather

• Changes in routine

• Visitors coming and going

• Travel disruptions

Understanding how to care for a senior pet during these festive yet demanding moments helps reduce stress and ensures your pet feels safe and supported throughout the season.

Senior wellness exams: Your best tool for preventing holiday emergencies

Routine veterinary visits are one of the most important aspects of senior pet care. As pets age, many become experts at hiding pain or illness. Because of this, we recommend older pets receive at least two pet wellness exam appointments per year.

A wellness exam becomes especially important during the holidays, when increased activity can exacerbate underlying conditions. For example:

• A pet with undiagnosed arthritis may suddenly struggle with icy walkways

• Heart issues may become more noticeable during travel

• Holiday excitement may disguise early warning signs of illness

During a senior wellness exam, your veterinarian may recommend blood work, a urine analysis, or additional diagnostics to ensure your pet is healthy heading into the busy season. This is also the perfect time to download your Emergency Vet Contact Card, so you’re prepared should anything unexpected occur.

Common chronic illnesses in senior dogs and cats

As pets mature, age-related conditions become more prevalent. A thorough physical exam may reveal chronic health issues such as:

• Kidney disease

• Heart disease

• Diabetes mellitus

• Arthritis

• Hyperthyroidism

• Liver disease

• Cushing’s disease

• Cataracts

• Dental disease

• Cancer

Many senior pets have multiple chronic conditions, and holiday activities can exacerbate their symptoms. Keeping an eye on changes in appetite, mobility, or behavior helps protect your pet, and reaching out to your veterinarian at the first sign of trouble can prevent holiday emergencies.

If you’re looking to learn more about conditions that may affect your pet, start with these easy-to-read guides:

• Arthritis In Cats: Does Your Feline Have It?

• Intervertebral Disc Disease In Dogs

• Canine Lymphoma Awareness

• What Causes Kidney Failure in Cats & Dogs

Holiday-specific signs your senior pet may need a veterinary visit

While some changes in your senior pet’s behavior may seem minor, certain symptoms become more concerning during the busy holiday season. Cold temperatures, rich foods, and increased activity in the home can all make age-related issues more noticeable. Watch for:

• Vomiting or diarrhea, especially after getting into holiday treats or table scraps

• Difficulty moving, stiffness, or limping after going outside in icy conditions

• Disorientation around holiday lights, décor, or unfamiliar visitors

• Changes in urination, including accidents indoors or signs of pain, which may worsen during holiday travel

• New lumps or bumps discovered during grooming or while getting your pet ready

• Wounds that don’t heal are common in winter, when skin becomes dry

• Bad breath or pain while chewing, especially after eating hard holiday treats

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to contact Billings Animal Family Hospital right away. You can reach us through our Contact Page or call 406-245-4772 for urgent concerns.

Tips for caring for your older dogs and cats

The holidays can be fun, but they can also be overwhelming for an older dog or cat. These simple adjustments on how to care for a senior pet can help them stay relaxed and healthy:

• Keep your pet warm: Soft bedding, warm blankets, and draft-free resting areas can ease joint stiffness during cold weather.

• Maintain routine: Stick to regular feeding, medication, and bathroom schedules to reduce stress from holiday changes.

• Avoid unsafe holiday foods: Skip chocolate, fatty meats, alcohol, xylitol, and rich desserts; offer only vet-approved treats.

• Provide gentle mental stimulation: Choose low-stress enrichment activities, such as simple puzzle toys or scent games, and offer breaks from crowds.

• Support mobility: Use ramps, non-slip mats, or harnesses to help your older dog or cat move safely, especially on icy days.

Before festivities begin, consider scheduling a pet wellness exam to ensure your senior pet is healthy and ready for the season.

Frequently asked questions

1. How do I know if my senior pet is stressed during the holidays?

Look for pacing, hiding, excessive panting, or changes in appetite. These signs often increase when routines or environments change.

2. What holiday foods are most dangerous for senior pets?

Chocolate, fatty meats, alcohol, xylitol, and rich desserts can be harmful. Senior pets with chronic illnesses are especially at risk.

3. Should older dogs travel with us for the holidays?

Travel can be stressful for senior dogs, especially those with mobility or health issues. Ask your veterinarian whether staying home or using a sitter is safer for your pet.

4. Are Christmas trees or holiday décor dangerous for senior pets?

Yes, lights, tinsel, ornaments, and electrical cords can cause injuries or stomach issues if chewed or swallowed. Keep décor out of reach and supervise them around trees.

5. Is cold weather dangerous for senior pets?

Cold temperatures can worsen arthritis and lower energy levels. Limit outdoor time and provide warm resting spots indoors.

Supporting your senior pet’s quality of life all year long

Caring for a senior pet during the holidays doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With a little preparation, you can help your older dog or cat stay comfortable, safe, and happy throughout the season.

Scheduling a pet wellness exam is one of the best ways to ensure your pet is healthy heading into winter. If you have questions or notice changes that concern you, Billings Animal Family Hospital is here to help. Visit our home page or explore our full range of services in senior pet care.

For urgent needs, call us at 406-245-4772 or reach out through our Contact Page. Your pet is family, and we’re honored to help you keep them healthy and happy through every season.