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Senior & Geriatric Pet Care in Lake Forest, CA

Request Appointment Helping senior pets stay healthy, comfortable, and loved through every stage A yellow Labrador retriever on a leash stands on green grass, facing the camera with a pink ball nearby. Out-of-focus agility equipment and a building are visible in the background under a blue sky.

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Compassionate Veterinary Care for Your Aging Pet

As pets enter their senior years, their health and lifestyle needs shift in ways that require careful attention and proactive care. What may appear to be “normal slowing down” is often the first signal of medical conditions that can be detected and managed early. Senior dogs and cats face increased risks of arthritis, dental disease, kidney problems, heart issues, and cancer. With regular wellness exams, personalized nutrition, and thoughtful home adjustments, many of these conditions can be caught early, allowing your pet to live more comfortably and happily.

At Bliss Animal Hospital in Lake Forest, CA, we provide comprehensive geriatric veterinary care designed specifically for aging pets. Our compassionate team, advanced diagnostics, and family-focused philosophy make us the trusted partner for pet parents across South Orange County.

A fluffy brown tabby cat with green eyes lies on a beige cushion, resting its head and looking attentively to the side, with a red pillow in the background.

Aging looks different in every pet, but there are general guidelines that help us determine when extra care is needed. Dogs are generally considered senior around age 7, though giant breeds may begin showing age-related changes as early as 5. Cats usually enter their senior stage around 10, but many live comfortably into their mid-to-late teens with proper care. Beyond age, senior status is influenced by breed, genetics, and overall health history. For example, a Labrador retriever may face joint concerns earlier than a small terrier, while cats often experience kidney disease or hyperthyroidism in their later years. Recognizing when your pet has transitioned into the senior stage allows us to adjust care proactively, ensuring that subtle shifts don’t progress into serious problems.

What Does “Senior” Mean for Dogs and Cats?

 A brown, brindle dog with gray fur on its face lies down on a red mat indoors, looking up with soulful eyes. The background appears softly blurred.

Signs of Aging to Watch for in Senior Pets

It’s easy to dismiss changes as “just getting old,” but many are actually treatable or manageable medical conditions. Contact us if you notice any of these warning signs:

A white outline of a bathroom scale with up and down arrows on its surface, set against a blue circular background, representing weight gain and loss.

Weight changes

Sudden weight loss may indicate metabolic disease, while weight gain can worsen arthritis and heart problems.

White outline of a water droplet and a bowl on a blue circular background, representing water or hydration.

Increased drinking/urination

Common in diabetes, kidney disease, or Cushing’s disease.

White outline of a dog climbing stairs inside a blue circle.

Mobility problems

Stiffness or reluctance to jump often signals arthritis or joint pain.

A simple white outline of a sitting cat inside a solid blue circular background. The cat is facing to the right, and there is a small white dot on its side.

Lumps or bumps

Not all growths are cancerous, but all should be examined by a vet.

White outline of a tooth with wavy lines coming from it, suggesting pain or sensitivity, on a blue circular background.

Bad breath or drooling

Often signs of painful dental disease, infections, or oral masses.

A simple white eye icon with a circular design is centered on a dark blue background.

Vision/hearing decline

Cataracts, retinal disease, or ear infections can reduce sensory input.

A white outline of a dog lying down beneath a crescent moon and star on a blue circular background.

Changes in sleep or grooming

Senior pets may sleep more, groom less, or seem restless.

White line drawing of a brain combined with a question mark, centered on a blue circular background. The brain appears confused or puzzled.

Confusion or disorientation

Can point to cognitive dysfunction syndrome (similar to dementia).

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Reduced activity

A pet who withdraws from play or social interaction may be in pain or ill.

Senior Wellness Exams: What to Expect

Senior wellness exams are the cornerstone of preventive care for aging pets. At Bliss Animal Hospital, we recommend exams every six months once your pet reaches senior status. Pets age much faster than humans, so a single year without evaluation is like skipping several years of health checks for us.

During a senior wellness visit, we conduct:

  • Comprehensive physical exam: Thorough nose-to-tail evaluation with focus on joints, heart, lungs, and abdomen.
  • Laboratory diagnostics: Bloodwork, chemistry panel, thyroid testing, urinalysis, and blood pressure.
  • Dental evaluation: Detecting painful disease or infections that impact quality of life.
  • Imaging when necessary: Radiographs or ultrasound for heart, lungs, kidneys, or abdominal organs.
  • Pain assessment: Evaluating mobility, behavior, and subtle signs of discomfort.
  • Behavior review: Identifying changes that may signal cognitive decline or stress.

The goal is not only to treat disease, but also to anticipate risks, extend lifespan, and enhance comfort.

A person gently cradles a light-colored dog’s head with both hands. The dog looks content with its eyes closed, enjoying the affection while sitting outdoors on a sunny day.

The hardest part of loving a pet is saying goodbye, but our team is here to provide compassion and guidance. Quality-of-life discussions help families make thoughtful decisions based on comfort, dignity, and love. We offer:
  • Quality-of-life scoring: Evaluating appetite, mobility, comfort, and happiness
  • Hospice & palliative care: Focused on keeping pets comfortable at home when cure is not possible
  • Gentle euthanasia: Performed with dignity, compassion, and support for your family
  • Resources for grieving families: Helping you process and honor your pet’s memory
We believe that end-of-life care is a final act of love, and we are honored to guide families through this stage.

Quality of Life and End-of-Life Guidance

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 A black, white, and tan dog with upright ears sits outdoors, looking at the camera with its mouth open, against a blurred green background. Plain white background with no discernible objects or features, reminiscent of a sterile veterinarian's examining room.
A brown dog with a slightly graying muzzle stands in a grassy field, looking directly at the camera with its mouth open and tongue out. The background is blurred with trees.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Most dogs are classified as seniors around age 7, though large and giant breeds may begin to show age-related health issues by 5 or 6 years old. Cats usually reach senior status around 10 years of age, though some cats may remain healthy and active well into their late teens. Breed, genetics, and lifestyle all play a role in how quickly pets age. For example, a small terrier may live to 16 with minimal issues, while a Great Dane may require senior-level care at age 6. Regular check-ups allow us to evaluate your pet’s individual aging process and tailor care accordingly

Senior pets are more prone to developing chronic diseases such as kidney failure, arthritis, diabetes, or heart disease. Unlike younger pets, whose health often remains stable year to year, older pets can change dramatically within just a few months. Semi-annual wellness visits allow us to identify subtle problems early, before they cause pain or irreversible damage. Early detection often means simpler treatments, less expense, and better outcomes. These visits also provide peace of mind for owners, ensuring you aren’t left guessing about your pet’s comfort and health.

At Bliss Animal Hospital, we typically recommend a panel of diagnostics for senior pets that may include a complete blood count (CBC), chemistry panel, thyroid test, urinalysis, and blood pressure measurement. Depending on symptoms, we may also suggest imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound to check the heart, lungs, or abdominal organs. These tests give us valuable insights into organ function, detect disease in its earliest stages, and help us create a baseline for future comparison. Proactive testing is the key to extending both the lifespan and quality of life for your aging pet

Pain in pets often goes unnoticed because animals instinctively hide weakness. Signs to look for include stiffness when rising, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, limping, or favoring certain limbs. You may also notice changes in behavior such as reduced play, irritability, or withdrawal from family interaction. Cats may stop grooming as frequently, while dogs may pant more or seem restless. Loss of appetite and reluctance to go for walks are also red flags. If you see these subtle shifts, it’s worth scheduling an exam—effective pain management can restore comfort and happiness

Yes, but vaccination schedules for senior pets are customized to their health status and lifestyle. Some pets may no longer need all core vaccines annually, while others still face risks if they go outdoors, board, or interact with other animals. For example, an indoor-only cat may require fewer boosters than a senior dog who visits parks frequently. Our goal is to keep your pet protected without unnecessary stress on their immune system. Regular exams help us decide which vaccines are still needed and which can be safely reduced or delayed

Senior dogs and cats benefit from diets that are formulated to support their aging bodies. These may include kidney-friendly diets, joint-supportive formulas, calorie-controlled meals for weight management, or high-fiber diets for digestive health. Some pets require prescription foods to manage chronic disease, while others thrive on balanced senior-specific commercial diets. Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, or probiotics may also be recommended. Because each pet’s needs vary, our veterinarians evaluate weight, lab results, and medical conditions before making a personalized nutrition plan.

Simple changes at home can make a big difference for aging pets. Non-slip rugs or mats help prevent falls on slick floors. Ramps or stairs provide easier access to beds, couches, or cars. Orthopedic beds relieve pressure on joints, while raised food and water bowls reduce strain on the neck and back. For cats, providing multiple, easily accessible litter boxes on different levels of the home is important. Keeping food, water, and rest areas within easy reach helps minimize stress and conserves energy. These adjustments create a safer, more comfortable living environment for senior pets

End-of-life care becomes appropriate when a pet’s quality of life has declined to the point where comfort, mobility, or appetite are severely compromised. Common indicators include persistent pain despite treatment, difficulty breathing, refusal to eat or drink, or withdrawal from once-enjoyed activities. At Bliss Animal Hospital, we provide quality-of-life assessments that evaluate these factors in detail. Some families choose hospice or palliative care to maximize comfort, while others may decide that humane euthanasia is the kindest option. Our role is to guide you with compassion, ensuring your pet’s final chapter is filled with dignity and love
A brown Labrador retriever walks through a grassy field on a sunny day, looking forward with its mouth slightly open and tongue out, surrounded by green trees in the background.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Most dogs are classified as seniors around age 7, though large and giant breeds may begin to show age-related health issues by 5 or 6 years old. Cats usually reach senior status around 10 years of age, though some cats may remain healthy and active well into their late teens. Breed, genetics, and lifestyle all play a role in how quickly pets age. For example, a small terrier may live to 16 with minimal issues, while a Great Dane may require senior-level care at age 6. Regular check-ups allow us to evaluate your pet’s individual aging process and tailor care accordingly

Senior pets are more prone to developing chronic diseases such as kidney failure, arthritis, diabetes, or heart disease. Unlike younger pets, whose health often remains stable year to year, older pets can change dramatically within just a few months. Semi-annual wellness visits allow us to identify subtle problems early, before they cause pain or irreversible damage. Early detection often means simpler treatments, less expense, and better outcomes. These visits also provide peace of mind for owners, ensuring you aren’t left guessing about your pet’s comfort and health.

At Bliss Animal Hospital, we typically recommend a panel of diagnostics for senior pets that may include a complete blood count (CBC), chemistry panel, thyroid test, urinalysis, and blood pressure measurement. Depending on symptoms, we may also suggest imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound to check the heart, lungs, or abdominal organs. These tests give us valuable insights into organ function, detect disease in its earliest stages, and help us create a baseline for future comparison. Proactive testing is the key to extending both the lifespan and quality of life for your aging pet

Pain in pets often goes unnoticed because animals instinctively hide weakness. Signs to look for include stiffness when rising, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, limping, or favoring certain limbs. You may also notice changes in behavior such as reduced play, irritability, or withdrawal from family interaction. Cats may stop grooming as frequently, while dogs may pant more or seem restless. Loss of appetite and reluctance to go for walks are also red flags. If you see these subtle shifts, it’s worth scheduling an exam—effective pain management can restore comfort and happiness

Yes, but vaccination schedules for senior pets are customized to their health status and lifestyle. Some pets may no longer need all core vaccines annually, while others still face risks if they go outdoors, board, or interact with other animals. For example, an indoor-only cat may require fewer boosters than a senior dog who visits parks frequently. Our goal is to keep your pet protected without unnecessary stress on their immune system. Regular exams help us decide which vaccines are still needed and which can be safely reduced or delayed

Senior dogs and cats benefit from diets that are formulated to support their aging bodies. These may include kidney-friendly diets, joint-supportive formulas, calorie-controlled meals for weight management, or high-fiber diets for digestive health. Some pets require prescription foods to manage chronic disease, while others thrive on balanced senior-specific commercial diets. Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, or probiotics may also be recommended. Because each pet’s needs vary, our veterinarians evaluate weight, lab results, and medical conditions before making a personalized nutrition plan.

Simple changes at home can make a big difference for aging pets. Non-slip rugs or mats help prevent falls on slick floors. Ramps or stairs provide easier access to beds, couches, or cars. Orthopedic beds relieve pressure on joints, while raised food and water bowls reduce strain on the neck and back. For cats, providing multiple, easily accessible litter boxes on different levels of the home is important. Keeping food, water, and rest areas within easy reach helps minimize stress and conserves energy. These adjustments create a safer, more comfortable living environment for senior pets

End-of-life care becomes appropriate when a pet’s quality of life has declined to the point where comfort, mobility, or appetite are severely compromised. Common indicators include persistent pain despite treatment, difficulty breathing, refusal to eat or drink, or withdrawal from once-enjoyed activities. At Bliss Animal Hospital, we provide quality-of-life assessments that evaluate these factors in detail. Some families choose hospice or palliative care to maximize comfort, while others may decide that humane euthanasia is the kindest option. Our role is to guide you with compassion, ensuring your pet’s final chapter is filled with dignity and love

Schedule Your Pet’s Senior Wellness Exam in Lake Forest, CA

Your senior pet deserves the same love and dedication they’ve given you. At Bliss Animal Hospital, our geriatric care program provides everything from preventive screenings to pain management and end-of-life support.
Call us today at 949-354-5201 or request an appointment online to schedule your senior pet’s wellness exam

A fluffy gray cat sits on a laptop keyboard with one paw on a credit card, looking up with wide green eyes. The scene appears humorous, as if the cat is shopping online.

Flexible Payment Options

We aim to make our Veterinary diagnostics services accessible and convenient for all pet owners. We accept a variety of payment methods to accommodate your needs:

  • Cash and Checks: We welcome payments made in cash or by check.
  • Debit and Credit Cards: We accept major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express.
  • Pet Insurance: We work with various pet insurance providers to help manage the cost of surgical procedures. Please consult with your insurance company to understand the coverage details.
  • Financing Options: We offer financing options through CareCredit. Our team can provide more information and assist you in finding a plan that suits your budget.

If you have any questions about our payment options, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.

Meet Our Veterinarians

The blissful faces behind the care

Driven by compassion and purpose, here is the team who will work to make a difference in your pet’s life. Every single visit.

dr Nayara pataro dr nai Veterinarian Bliss animal hospital vet near me

Dr. Nayara Pataro

Veterinarian

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dr sam amirshahi vet dr sam veterinarian bliss animal hospital vet near me

Dr. Sam Amirshahi

Veterinarian

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What your neighbors are saying!

Areas we Serve at Bliss Animal Hospital:

“Better Care. Better medicine.” This is our motto, and our veterinary staff stands behind it.

Bliss Animal Hospital is conveniently located at the Home Depot Plaza in Foothill Ranch, less than a 10-minute drive from the neighborhoods of Lake Forest, Rancho Santa Margarita, Mission Viejo, and Irvine (Great Park and Portola Springs). We also serve more distant regions like Tustin, Coto de Caza, Las Flores, Ladera Ranch, Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods, Stonegate (Irvine), Woodbury (Irvine), and Cypress Village (Irvine).

Our vet hospital is ready to serve not only the communities of South Orange County but also anyone who truly believes that veterinary medicine starts with relationships.

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