“We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.”   —George Bernard Shaw

“Play is our brain’s favorite way of learning.”—Diane Ackerman

As your pet’s muzzle turns grey, they may become slower and lose the playful enthusiasm they had as a puppy or kitten. This does not mean you should stop providing regular activity for your senior pet—on the contrary, they need regular activity now more than ever. Sedentary pets lose muscle mass, accumulate fatty tissue, and become weaker, which leads to decreased mobility and accelerated aging. Low- to moderate-intensity exercise will keep your pet moving, which will help them maintain their mobility, balance, and confidence. And, the mental benefits from activity may be more important than the physical benefits, as stimulating your pet’s brain helps keep their mind sharp, and staves off cognitive deterioration. 

Many of your pet’s younger activities, such as playing fetch or long hikes, may be off the table, but plenty of others can stimulate your senior pet’s body and mind.

#1: Walking 

Your pet may no longer be able to keep up as your running partner, but they will still enjoy getting out of the house for a short walk. Adjust your pace and distance to your pet, and let them take their time to enjoy the sights, smells, and sounds of nature—this way, your daily walk will serve double duty by engaging your pet’s brawn and brain. Change up the old route and investigate new places together—your pet will soak up the new stimuli. If your pet suffers from mobility issues, such as severe arthritis or balance problems, push them in a pet stroller, or use a wagon lined with soft bedding, so they can still enjoy the fresh air every day. On rainy or cold days, take your pet for a car ride and stop for a puppuccino, or a visit with a furry friend.

#2: Swimming

If you have access to a safe swimming hole or shallow pool, your dog may enjoy a short swim. Pets with aching joints are often more comfortable swimming than walking, as the water’s buoyancy supports them, and their painful joints don’t need to carry their weight. If your pet is overweight, swimming is a great way to encourage weight loss, which will decrease joint stress and improve mobility.

#3: Learning new tricks

The old wives tale is false—you can teach an old dog new tricks. Learning to shake, speak, or give a high five on command will stimulate your pet’s brain, and keep their mind sharp. And, tricks are not only for dogs. Teach your cat to fetch a toy mouse, or come when called. Keep training sessions short, and always end on a positive note so they are enjoyable. Reward your pet’s efforts with a few high-value treats, but don’t forget to subtract the calories from their daily food intake, to prevent weight gain.

#4: Playing mind games

You can purchase or make a variety of interactive toys that will keep your pet’s mind engaged. Interactive feeders and food puzzles make your pet work for their food, exercise their brain, and prevent them from wolfing down their dinner. Motorized mice will encourage your cat to stalk and pounce on their prey like a kitten. To make your own toys, stuff toilet paper rolls with newspaper and a few treats, and see if your cat can figure out how to access the reward. Or, cut holes in a shoebox that you wiggle a feather wand through, to create a “whack-a-mole” game. Dogs will enjoy treat-dispensing balls, or toys that provide a treat once they have moved a sliding panel or flipped up a hinged door. You can also hide treats or kibble around the house for your pet to sniff out. 

#5: Spending quality time with you

As your pet ages, they likely can no longer join family outings and activities, which can significantly impact their mental health. If your once-active pet is left home alone, or in the house while you are outside having fun, they may become depressed and moody. More than anything, your pet wants to be with the people they love and cherish, and to be included in family activities. Ensure you spend quality time with your pet each day, and make accommodations so your pet can join as many family outings as possible. 

If your beloved senior pet has an advanced medical condition, you may choose to support them through their final moments with hospice care. Learn more about in-home euthanasia to prepare yourself for the inevitable, or contact a Lap of Love veterinarian in your area for more advice on keeping your senior pet comfortable through their golden years.