11/24/2025
Some days your sweet old buddy just has less patience. You see it in the side-eye at the noisy vacuum. The huff when the puppy won’t quit. The way they choose the quiet corner instead of the couch pile.
It’s not you. And it’s not them being “bad.” As pets age, their brains and bodies change. Like us, they can get sore, tired, and a little less flexible with surprises. That can look like being grumpier, quicker to snap, or simply wanting more space.
Dogs often show it first as lower tolerance for rough play or interruptions during rest. A dog who once loved the park may prefer short, predictable walks. Some older dogs even show small spikes in aggression toward other dogs. Routine, pain control, and gentler social time can help.
Cats have their own version. Seniors may yowl at night, hide more, or swat when they never used to. These can be signs of stress, pain, or cognitive changes. A litter box that’s easier to reach, soft bedding, and calm, brief petting sessions can make a big difference.
None of this means the bond is fading. It means their needs are changing. Keep days simple. Protect their sleep. Announce your touch before petting. Offer quiet escapes when guests visit. Ask your vet to check for pain, hearing or vision loss, and cognitive decline. Small tweaks at home, plus pain relief or supplements when recommended, can bring back the soft eyes and slow purrs.
We grow old together. They taught us joy when they were young. Now we get to teach them comfort.
References
"Ageing canine companions: Most common manifestations and the impact of selected factors" - Applied Animal Behaviour Science
"Cross-Sectional Age Differences in Canine Personality Traits; Influence of Breed, S*x, Previous Trauma, and Dog Obedience Tasks" - Frontiers in Veterinary Science
"Cognitive Dysfunction in Cats: Update on Neuropathological and Behavioural Changes Plus Clinical Management" - Veterinary Record
"Prevalence of Disease and Age-Related Behavioural Changes in Cats: Past and Present" - Veterinary Sciences
Disclaimer: Images are generated using AI for illustration purposes only.