Seven Common Chronic Health Conditions in Pets

Why Regular Vet Visits Matter More Now that Our Pets are Living Longer

The good news? Just like humans, our pets are living longer. Thanks to better nutrition, advancements in veterinary medicine, and devoted care of owners. The bad news? Longer lifespans increase the risk of developing chronic health conditions. From achy joints to kidney trouble, older pets may quietly suffer with a reduced quality of life for years, before a condition becomes evident.

Regular veterinary checkups, including virtual telehealth visits, are key to early detection of potential issues. Because many chronic conditions progress slowly, your pet may not show obvious symptoms until they're advanced. When your pet is seen regularly, the doctor can see changes in behavior and help you manage the condition through:

🩺
Early Detection: Routine exams and screenings help catch problems early—before they become more painful, difficult and expensive to treat.
💉
Preventive Care: With vaccinations, medication, parasite control, and dental cleaning suggestions, preventative vet care can reduce the onset of chronic diseases.
📈
Ongoing Monitoring: Once a pet is diagnosed with a condition, regular vet visits, including online appointments, help ensure treatments are working. Vets don't waste time because they know your animal and can adjust medication or diet to keep a pet more comfortable and active.
🍽
Nutritional Support: Veterinary science had seen major advances in understanding the role of food in pet health. Guidance on special diets to support chronic conditions like diabetes or kidney disease or eliminating ingredients that may trigger a condition is part of regular vet care.
🐾
Better Quality of Life: We all want the best for our pets. By setting up regular visits, pets get the care and attention to live longer, happier lives—even with chronic conditions.

Common Chronic Conditions in Household Pets

Below, we've explained several common chronic conditions affecting household pets, like cats and dogs. We've also provided signs of what to look for. As always, it is best to confirm any health issues with a licensed veterinarian.

1. Arthritis

Also known as osteoarthritis, this condition is common among older dogs and cats. Just like humans, it is the result of wear and tear on the joints over time. For pets, it leads to stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility.

Potential causes: Age-related joint wear and tear, obesity, or past injuries.

Early symptoms: A pet seems slower to get up, less willing to play, or reluctant to go up stairs.

2. Diabetes

Affecting both cats and dogs, diabetes is typically linked to a pet's obesity and age. Similar to humans, pet diabetes typically requires daily management through diet, insulin injections, and regular monitoring with a vet.

Potential causes: Obesity, genetic predisposition, or immune disorders.

Early symptoms: Excessive thirst, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss.

3. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Chronic kidney disease is most often found in older cats. It develops slowly over time. While it can't be cured, early detection can help pet parents manage the condition through treatment that greatly improves a kitty's quality of life.

Potential causes: Aging, infections, or exposure to toxins.

Early symptoms: Increased thirst, weight loss, and lethargy.

4. Dental Disease

More than 80% of pets over the age of three show signs of dental disease. When left untreated, the condition can lead to tooth loss and pain. It can also cause infections that affect the heart, liver, and kidneys. There are many products on the market now to help keep pet teeth and gums healthy, slowing or reversing dental disease.

Potential causes: Poor oral hygiene, plaque buildup, or genetics.

Early symptoms: Bad breath is often the first noticeable symptom, so treating dental disease also benefits the owner!

5. Skin Allergies

Environmental triggers like pollen or dust mites may cause allergies. Certain foods can also trigger an allergic reaction. Increased sensitivity may emerge as a pet ages. They often require lifelong treatment, but can be managed by changing diet, limiting exposure or prescribing medications.

Potential causes: Environmental allergens, food sensitivities, or fleas.

Early symptoms: Chronic itching, ear infections, and hair loss.

If you notice your pet constantly scratching or developing skin issues, consider checking with a vet about possible food allergies. The American Kennel Club has helpful information about identifying and managing pet food allergies.

6. Heart Disease

Heart conditions can be congenital (present at birth or before birth) in some dog breeds. They can also be age-related, going unnoticed until they're advanced and dangerous. Regular heart checks with a vet help catch issues before they become life-threatening.

Potential causes: Congenital defects, aging, or infections (e.g., heartworm).

Early symptoms: Coughing, fatigue, or labored breathing is the most common symptom in dogs.

7. Obesity

Don't take it personally if a vet is concerned about your pet's weight gain. Obesity is more than a cosmetic concern, it is a serious health risk. If overweight, your furry friend is more prone to arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. It is important to note that switching diets and managing food portions is best guided by a vet to ensure healthy progress.

Potential causes: Overfeeding, lack of exercise, or metabolic issues.

Early symptoms: Keep an eye on your pet's weight using a home scale. While some seasonal fluctuation may occur, keeping pets active is important all year long.

Conclusion

Remember: your pet can't tell you if something hurts or they are not feeling well. It is important for pet parents to be observant, but regular visits with a vet, including via telehealth, can ensure your pet is staying healthy and being monitored as it ages.

If your pet is diagnosed with a chronic condition, or is aging, routine care is even more important to ensure your pet is comfortable, active and happy.

If you have questions about any of the conditions listed above or are wondering about a change in behavior in your pet, our team of licensed veterinarians is available to schedule a vet visit to help address your concerns.