Senior Screening: Blood Pressure, Thyroid, and X-Rays-

Catching Age-Related Disease Early: What Senior Screenings Reveal

What if you could catch health problems in your aging pet before they became serious? That's exactly what senior screening does. Blood pressure issues can be managed before they cause emergencies. Thyroid imbalances can be treated before they strain the heart. Arthritis can be addressed before pain becomes severe. These tests cost far less than treating advanced disease, and even normal results help by creating baselines for future comparison. Aging is a normal part of life, but the changes that come with it deserve attention.

North Royalton Animal Hospital focuses on proactive screening for seniors, not waiting for crisis care. We check blood pressure to catch hypertension before it affects eyes or kidneys. We test thyroid function in aging dogs and cats, since hormones influence the whole body. X-rays and ultrasound help us spot arthritis, organ changes, and masses. Because seniors change quickly, twice-yearly visits are ideal. Request an appointment for senior wellness screening or contact us to talk through the best diagnostics for your pet.

Why Aren't Annual Checkups Enough for Aging Pets?

Senior pets change quickly. Organs slow down, metabolism shifts, and the immune system becomes less efficient. Many serious conditions stay silent until significant damage has already occurred. Six months is a long time in a senior pet's life, and waiting a full year between visits can allow treatable conditions to advance. Following senior pet care recommendations means wellness exams every six months once your pet reaches this stage. This schedule lets us compare results over time and catch early trends before they become bigger problems.

Preventive testing adds objective data that physical exams alone cannot provide. Here's what early detection can reveal:

• Blood work showing early kidney changes before noticeable thirst or weight loss
• Thyroid testing catching imbalances before heart issues develop
• Blood pressure screening identifying hypertension before it harms eyes, kidneys, or heart
• Urinalysis detecting diabetes or urinary infections before symptoms appear

Baseline results help spot small but important changes over time. Even values within the "normal" range can hint at early disease if they're trending upward across several tests.

What Does Blood Work Reveal in Senior Pets?

Blood panels offer a snapshot of internal health. A complete blood count looks at red blood cells (which carry oxygen), white blood cells (which fight infection), and platelets (which help with clotting). A chemistry panel checks organ function, blood sugar, protein levels, and electrolytes. These diagnostic tests often catch problems before you notice any symptoms at home.

Common findings in seniors include mild anemia (which can cause fatigue), rising kidney values (which may prompt dietary changes), elevated liver enzymes (which need follow-up), or high blood sugar (which suggests diabetes). Tracking trends matters more than any single number. A slow increase across several tests can signal early disease even when values are still technically normal.

Our on-site lab provides results quickly, so we can discuss findings and create a plan during the same visit.

What Does Urinalysis Tell Us?

Urinalysis looks at urine concentration, pH, protein, glucose, blood cells, crystals, and bacteria. It's a simple way to spot kidney disease, urinary infections, diabetes, or bladder stones.

Healthy kidneys produce concentrated urine. Dilute urine or protein in the urine can signal kidney trouble, often before blood tests show any changes. Combining urinalysis with blood work gives us a fuller picture and helps us take action early.

We recommend blood and urine testing every six months for seniors. Our senior wellness packages include clean sample collection methods for accurate results.

What About Thyroid Problems in Dogs?

Dogs commonly develop hypothyroidism as they age, which means the thyroid gland isn't producing enough hormone. This affects middle-aged and senior dogs most often.

Signs of hypothyroidism include:

• Unexplained weight gain despite normal eating
• Lethargy and exercise intolerance
• Thinning coat or hair loss, especially on the trunk and tail
• Dry, flaky skin
• Recurring skin or ear infections
• Seeking warm places and cold intolerance

A simple blood test confirms hypothyroidism. If the diagnosis is positive, daily medication usually restores normal hormone levels. Most dogs improve within weeks as energy, weight, and coat health rebound. Periodic rechecks help us keep the dose just right.

What About Thyroid Problems in Cats?

Feline hyperthyroidism is the most common hormonal disease in senior cats, and it's the opposite of what we see in dogs. The thyroid produces too much hormone, revving up metabolism to an unhealthy degree.

Signs of hyperthyroidism include:

• Weight loss despite increased appetite
• Restlessness, hyperactivity, or irritability
• Increased thirst and urination
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Rapid heart rate
• Unkempt coat

Testing involves a blood test. Treatment options include daily medication, a prescription iodine-restricted diet, or radioactive iodine therapy. The best choice depends on your cat's overall health and your ability to give medication consistently. Our Cat-Friendly approach helps minimize stress during exams and treatment.

Left untreated, thyroid disease shortens lifespan and reduces quality of life. Managed well, most pets do beautifully for years.

Why Does Blood Pressure Monitoring Matter?

Hypertension (high blood pressure) rarely shows obvious signs until it has already damaged organs. Some pets go suddenly blind from retinal detachment, while others develop kidney problems or neurologic changes.

Conditions commonly linked to high blood pressure:

• Chronic kidney disease
• Hyperthyroidism in cats
• Diabetes
• Cushing's disease
• Certain adrenal tumors

Organs affected by uncontrolled hypertension:

• Eyes: retinal detachment and sudden blindness
• Kidneys: accelerated damage and decline
• Heart: increased workload and potential failure
• Brain: neurologic changes and stroke-like episodes

We use a small cuff on the leg or tail to measure blood pressure. It's quick, non-invasive, and similar to what happens at your own doctor's office. Most pets tolerate it well in our calm environment. If we find high blood pressure, medications and dietary changes can protect organs before damage occurs. Blood pressure checks are included as a standard component in our senior wellness packages.

How Do We Screen for Heart Disease?

We listen for murmurs and irregular rhythms during exams, but some heart disease doesn't make obvious sounds. That's where additional heart disease diagnosis tools help.

Test	What It Shows	When It's Used
Chest X-rays	Heart size and lung health	Screening, coughing, exercise intolerance
Echocardiogram	Heart structure, valve function, blood flow	Murmurs or suspected heart disease
NT-proBNP testing	Heart stress biomarker	Screening before symptoms appear
ECG/EKG	Heart rhythm	Irregular heartbeat or arrhythmias

Common senior conditions include mitral valve disease in dogs and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in cats. Early detection lets us start medication and lifestyle changes that reduce strain on the heart and improve comfort. Our services include full cardiac workups and ongoing care.

When Do Senior Pets Need X-Rays?

Radiography helps us evaluate the chest, abdomen, and bones. For seniors, X-rays are useful during wellness checks and when symptoms need investigation.

X-rays are recommended for:

• Heart and lung health assessment
• Abdominal organ size and position evaluation
• Bones and joints for arthritis or injury
• Unexplained symptoms like coughing, vomiting, or pain
• Suspected masses or tumors

X-rays can help identify heart enlargement, lung issues, masses, bladder stones, arthritis, and fractures. Our digital radiography provides high-quality images with less radiation exposure, and we can review findings with you during your visit.

What Can Ultrasound Reveal Beyond X-Rays?

Ultrasound shows organ details in real time that X-rays cannot capture. It helps us evaluate the liver, spleen, kidneys, bladder, and intestines for inflammation, masses, or other changes.

Advantages of ultrasound:

• Visualizes internal organ structure and texture
• Detects masses, cysts, and fluid accumulation
• Guides needle biopsies for tissue sampling
• Shows real-time organ function
• Non-invasive and typically well-tolerated

Most pets don't need sedation and tolerate ultrasound scans well. We offer both X-ray and ultrasound under one roof, and our senior packages include abdominal ultrasound for comprehensive evaluation.

How Do We Screen for Kidney Disease?

Kidney disease is one of the most common conditions affecting senior pets, especially cats. The kidneys filter waste from the blood, so when function declines, toxins build up and pets feel unwell.

Signs that may indicate kidney problems:

• Increased thirst and urination
• Weight loss and muscle wasting
• Decreased appetite or nausea
• Vomiting

Here's the challenge: kidneys have significant reserve capacity, so pets often don't show symptoms until 65 to 75 percent of function is already lost. Routine screening catches changes much earlier, when intervention is most effective. Early detection allows us to adjust diet, fluids, and medications to slow progression.

With early detection and consistent management, many pets with kidney disease maintain good quality of life for months to years. Regular monitoring helps us adjust treatment as needs change.

How Do We Screen for Liver Disease?

Blood work may show liver enzyme changes, and ultrasound helps us look for causes like inflammation, gallbladder disease, or tumors.

Signs that may indicate liver problems:

• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Increased thirst and urination
• Jaundice (yellowing of gums, eyes, or skin)
• Fluid accumulation in the abdomen
• Behavioral changes

Treatment depends on the cause and can include medication, dietary changes, and supportive care. With early detection, many pets with liver disease maintain good quality of life.

How Do We Screen for Cancer?

Early detection matters for cancer. Physical exams, lab work, and imaging help us find lumps, enlarged lymph nodes, or organ changes. We check lymph nodes, skin, and organ size during every senior visit.

Some cancers are curable when caught early, while others can be managed to preserve quality of life. If we find a suspicious mass, a fine needle sample or biopsy determines whether it's benign or malignant, which guides next steps including surgery, medication, or referral.

How Do We Assess and Manage Arthritis?

Arthritis is common in senior dogs and often overlooked in cats. It can limit activity and affect mood and weight. Exams and X-rays help confirm joint changes so we can start relief early.

Effective pain management options include:

• Anti-inflammatory medications as appropriate
• Librela for dogs and Solensia for cats: monthly arthritis pain injections
• Joint supplements (glucosamine, omega-3 fatty acids)
• Weight management
• Cold laser therapy
• Physical therapy and targeted exercises for osteoarthritis
• Environmental modifications like ramps and orthopedic bedding

Our laser therapy services can reduce inflammation and support healing for pets with joint pain. Curious if your cat is in pain? Check out our guide to feline pain. We also have great options for joint supplements in our online pharmacy to help your senior pet’s joints move more smoothly.

Why Does Dental Health Matter for Senior Wellness?

Dental disease affects more than the mouth. Bacteria and inflammation from infected gums can impact the heart, liver, and kidneys. Painful teeth reduce appetite and mood, especially in seniors.

Signs of dental disease:

• Bad breath
• Drooling or pawing at the mouth
• Bleeding gums
• Reluctance to chew or dropping food
• Loose or discolored teeth

Professional dental care under anesthesia lets us clean below the gum line and treat problem teeth safely. We perform pre-anesthetic blood work and closely monitor your pet throughout with modern protocols. Between cleanings, home care like brushing and dental treats helps maintain oral health.

How Do We Create a Personalized Senior Care Plan?

Every senior pet ages differently. Screening results, exam findings, breed risks, and lifestyle all guide a tailored plan. Most seniors benefit from visits every six months, though pets with chronic conditions may need more frequent monitoring.

Factors that influence care plans:

• Current health status and existing conditions
• Breed predispositions
• Weight and body condition
• Activity level and lifestyle
• Previous screening results and trends
• Your goals and preferences

We keep communication clear and supportive, explaining findings and options in everyday language. Our  team’s Fear Free, Cat-Friendly, and Low-Stress Handling certifications help make visits positive, even as screening becomes more frequent. If your pet needs urgent or emergency care, we respond promptly during business hours and provide after-hours referral guidance.

FAQs: Senior Pet Screening

How often should my senior pet be screened? Most seniors benefit from visits every six months to catch changes early. Pets with chronic conditions may need more frequent monitoring.

What are early signs my pet needs screening now? Watch for increased thirst or urination, weight changes, new lumps, coughing, behavior shifts, stiffness, decreased appetite, or changes in litter box habits.

Is anesthesia safe for senior pets? With pre-anesthetic testing and modern monitoring, anesthesia is very safe for seniors. We tailor protocols to each pet with dedicated monitoring, IV fluids, and heat support.

What if my pet's tests are normal? That's good news! Normal results provide a baseline to spot small changes sooner. They offer peace of mind and valuable comparison data for future tests.

How much does senior screening cost? Costs vary based on which tests are included. Our wellness packages bundle essential tests at better value than individual pricing. We're happy to discuss options that fit your budget.

Giving Your Senior Pet the Best Years Ahead

Proactive screening helps pets stay comfortable, active, and engaged longer. Catching kidney disease, thyroid problems, hypertension, arthritis, and other issues early keeps treatment simpler and less costly. Even normal results help by setting baselines and easing worry.

Our team supports you with guidance, compassion, and medical care tailored to your pet's needs. Our senior wellness recommendations are designed to catch problems while they're still manageable. Schedule an appointment for senior screening, or contact us to discuss the right plan. We're here to help, answer your questions, and partner with you in your pet's care so you can feel confident every step of the way.

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