Preventive check-up for seniors (geriatric package)

What it involves

The geriatric package is a structured health review of an older animal. It consists of a thorough clinical examination, a full blood count and extended blood biochemistry, a urine test, blood pressure measurement and, in cats, a thyroid hormone test as well. Depending on the results, we add an abdominal ultrasound, a chest X-ray or echocardiography.

Many illnesses of older pets — chronic kidney disease, hyperthyroidism in cats, diabetes, heart disease, cancer — develop over months without visible signs. The owner notices them only when the animal clearly loses weight or becomes weak. The tests make it possible to detect them earlier, when there is still a lot that can be done.

The result of the package gives a baseline: we compare later tests with earlier ones and see a trend, not just a single result.

When it is used

We recommend the first geriatric check for large-breed dogs from 5 years of age, and likewise for cats and small-breed dogs. We then repeat it every 6–12 months, depending on state of health.

The package is also a good starting point when a senior pet is about to have an anaesthetic (for example, for dental treatment) or when non-specific signs have appeared: getting up less willingly, sleeping more, drinking more.

Indications: symptoms that should prompt a visit

• An older cat is drinking and passing urine noticeably more than before.
• A senior dog is losing weight or, conversely, gaining it despite the same diet.
• The animal has difficulty getting up, climbing stairs or jumping onto the sofa.
• A cat over 10 years old eats a lot, yet still loses weight and is agitated.
• A dog has started coughing at night or tires more quickly on walks.
• The animal is passing urine in the house, although this had not happened before.
• You would like to have a senior pet checked before a planned anaesthetic.

Conditions for which we use it in particular

Diagnostics beforehand

Please bring the animal to the appointment fasted (8–12 hours without food, water unrestricted) — this makes the blood biochemistry easier to assess. If possible, it is worth collecting a morning urine sample in a clean container, or collecting it in the special non-absorbent litter that we hand out at reception.

We carry out all laboratory tests in our own laboratory on the same day; we have ultrasound and X-ray on site, so if needed we can extend the diagnostics without another visit.

How it proceeds

Aftercare

After the examination the animal goes home with no restrictions. We discuss the result on site; if some results arrive later, please get in touch with us about the results. You will receive a written summary and recommendations on paper or by email.

If we detect a chronic disease, we agree a management plan and a recheck, usually after 4–8 weeks. If the results are normal, we book the next package in 6–12 months.

Frequently asked questions