Most dogs and cats become seniors at the magical age of 7 (as a general rule.) Just like humans, as our companions age, their bodies become less efficient and they become candidates for many age related diseases such as diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, cancer, hypothyroidism, and hyperthyroidism. Routine checkups, regular blood screenings, and minor lifestyle changes, such as diet, can minimize the onset of disease and allow the opportunity for treatment and management due to early detection.
See below to see a senior pet to human age comparison that shows more accurately when a dog or cat becomes senior based on weight:
