Senior Health Profiles for Dogs and Cats in Nicosia
Older pets are very good at hiding health problems. A full test profile helps us find changes early, when it is easier to help.
What is a senior health profile?
It is a full check designed for older dogs and cats. It combines a clinical examination with a blood test package and a blood pressure measurement, so we can see how the important organs are working.
Pets change slowly as they get older and often hide pain and illness. Many problems show up in tests long before they show at home.
What it includes
- A full clinical examination, including weight, heart, teeth, joints and skin
- Kidneys, with the SDMA test, which can show kidney changes earlier than older tests
- Liver, to check liver function
- Pancreas, to check pancreas function
- Thyroid, which is often overactive in older cats and underactive in some dogs
- Blood sugar, to check for diabetes
- Blood pressure, especially important for cats over 10 years old
When to do it
Most dogs are seniors from around 7 to 8 years old, and large breeds earlier. Cats are seniors from around 10 years old. From this age we suggest a check-up every 6 to 12 months.
Book sooner if you notice any of these signs:
- Drinking or peeing more than before
- Losing or gaining weight for no clear reason
- Eating less or becoming fussy
- Stiffness, or trouble with stairs or jumping
- Changes in sleep, confusion or accidents in the house
- Bad breath or new lumps
How it works at our clinic
- Chat and examination. We ask about any changes in your pet's life and examine them carefully.
- Blood and blood pressure. We take a small blood sample and measure blood pressure in a quiet room.
- Results. In about 25 minutes we have the test results and talk them through with you.
- A plan. If we find something, we explain the next steps. If all is well, we keep the results to compare at the next check-up.
Care at home
A few simple changes make a big difference for an older pet:
- A soft bed in a warm, quiet spot
- Ramps or steps for the sofa and car, and non-slip rugs
- A healthy weight, because extra kilos strain the joints
- Gentle, regular exercise, with shorter but more frequent walks
- Food suited to their age, as we will advise
- Dental care, because mouth pain is common
Arthritis is very common in older pets and often goes unnoticed. If your pet is moving more slowly, tell us. There are ways to ease the pain.
Why it matters
When we find a problem early, such as kidney disease or an overactive thyroid, we can often manage it with diet and treatment and keep your pet comfortable and happy for longer. Because at Vet to Pet you always see the same vet, we can compare results from year to year and notice small changes.
Frequently asked questions
At what age is my pet a senior?
Most dogs from around 7 to 8 years old, and large breeds earlier. Cats from around 10 years old.
How often should the check-up be done?
Usually every 6 to 12 months. If your pet has a long-term condition, they may need checks more often.
How quickly are results ready?
The blood test package gives results in about 25 minutes, so we usually discuss them during the same visit.
Does my pet need to fast before the test?
We often suggest a few hours without food for more reliable results, but water is fine. We will tell you what is needed when you book.
What if everything is normal?
That is great news. The results stay in your pet's records and help us spot small changes at future checks.
Related articles
Sources and further reading
The facts in this article are based on guidance from international and European veterinary organisations.
- Principles of Wellness (2025) (WSAVA)
- PetSavers Caring for your Elderly Pet Guide (BSAVA)
- Global Nutrition Guidelines (WSAVA)
- Pain Guidelines (WSAVA)
Book a senior check-up
Just a small blood sample, with results in about 25 minutes. Ask us about the special offer on the test package.
📞 22 015979