Did you know that senior cats and dogs get gray hair? And that's not all that changes as pets age. From a decline in eyesight and hearing to changes in digestion and energy level, pets go through many of the same aging stages as humans. Here are 10 tips for taking care of aging pets. Post a comment to tell us how you comfort and care for wise old pets!

1. How old is "old"?

Cats can begin to age noticeably as early as 7 to 8 years old, although they aren't considered truly senior until after age 10.

Figuring out when a dog is "old" is a bit more complex. Dogs age rapidly during the first two years of their lives, so that by the beginning of age three, canines are about 24 human years old. After that, dogs age differently depending on their size, with big dogs aging more quickly than little dogs.

According to the Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association, 56 to 60 years of age is considered the start of the senior years in humans. To find out how that age corresponds to dogs of all sizes, try this cool tool.

2. More Vet Visits

As pets age, they need to visit the doctor more frequently. Some vets recommend an appointment every six months, since pets can age quickly in a short time span. Regular appointments and routine tests can help the vet to catch and treat problems early.

3. Diet & Nutrition

As cats and dogs age, their nutritional needs change. Since a senior pet's metabolism can slow down, you may need to give it smaller amounts of food to make sure it doesn't become overweight or obese. Just like in people, excess weight in pets can be a health hazard

On the other hand, it's important to keep animals from losing too much weight as they age. Cats are especially susceptible to this since their appetite is integrally tied to their noses. As a cat's sense of smell declines with age, so can her appetite. In other words, if a cat can't smell her food, she probably won't be interested in eating it. If a cat shows little interest in food she once loved, try gently heating it up to make it more aromatic or switching to a more "stinky" brand.

Cats and dogs may also need different nutrients as they age. A vet can advise on the best food and supplements to keep pets healthy during their later years.

4. Exercise & Energy

As pets age and their metabolism slows, they may have less energy. This means they may need more sleep, may sleep more deeply, and may not have the stamina they used to have. While it's important for pets to get enough rest, don't let them become lazy. Encourage aging cats and dogs to exercise to help them stay healthy. Moderate activity is a good way to keep illness and disease at bay. Take older dogs for walks, but pay attention to how quickly and how long they can go. Keep cats frisky by playing with them using their favorite toys or introducing new ones.

5. Dental Care

Dental disease is a common problem in both dogs and cats as they age. Tartar and plaque can build up on pets' teeth and cause dental and gum disease. To keep a pet's mouth healthy, talk to your vet about cleaning your pet's teeth at home. The vet may also recommend more extensive cleanings during an office visit.

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