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Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Senior Pet Talk | for dogs + cats

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TitreDateDurée
23. Diet for Brain Health in Senior Pets01 Oct 202600:38:23

Did you know that 28% of dogs and cats over the age of 11 have dementia? That's what Dr. Amanda is talking about today, focusing on nutrition and supplementation as practical ways to support brain health.

She covers:

  • Prescription diets for dogs, including Hill's Brain Diet and Purina Pro Plan NeuroCare
  • Which ingredients matter most
  • Research showing improvements in learning, memory, and dementia-related signs, while noting results aren't identical for every pet
  • For cats, the more limited brain-diet options available
  • Why cats have different nutritional needs, and why home-cooked diets for cats require careful formulation and veterinary guidance
  • A review of common supplements used for cognitive support

Listen in for more on nutrition and diet as it relates to brain health for your pet.


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TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

0:00 - Brain health in senior pets
1:18 - Nutrition for senior minds
5:16 - Prescription brain diets
8:29 - Key ingredients in brain diets
18:41 - Fresh food and what the research shows
21:58 - Cognitive diet options for cats
25:15 - Supplementing senior brain health
29:59 - Omega-3s and MCT support
33:26 - CBD, milk thistle, and more
36:02 - Tailoring care to each pet

Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

22. 7 Reasons I'm Wary of "Longevity Medicine" and What to Ask Instead24 Sep 202600:43:01

If someone said they could scan your 11-year-old pet, hand you a "biological age," and slow down their aging, would you buy it? In this episode, Dr. Amanda talks about longevity medicine in senior pets, walking through 7 reasons to be careful with anyone using the term "longevity medicine," and 6 questions you can ask instead to get to what will actually help your pet.

She discusses:

  • Why we should be careful with the term "longevity medicine"
  • Why the goal should be healthspan, not just lifespan
  • Why the term itself is unclear
  • How marketing can move ahead of the evidence, especially when studies get simplified or overstated
  • The lack of FDA-approved drugs or supplements proven to extend a pet's lifespan
  • The risk of over-testing and over-treating when age gets treated like a disease
  • 6 questions to ask when you hear a longevity claim
  • Why it's worth focusing on the basics that actually matter

Listen in for a reminder to focus on giving your senior pet a good life, not just a longer one.


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TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

0:00 - The longevity medicine debate
03:38 - Reason 1: Why healthspan matters more than lifespan
06:25 - Reason 2: There's no clear definition of longevity
08:13 - Reason 3: Evidence trails the marketing
12:28 - Reason 4: Why there's no proven lifespan drug
17:25 - Reason 5: Testing age as a disease
24:15 - Reason 6: Simple tactics you can do
27:08 - Reason 7: The longevity guilt trap
29:06 - 6 questions to ask before buying longevity claims
34:17 - Focus on the basics


Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

21. Love Your Senior Pet the Way They Need17 Sep 202600:43:46

How do I love my senior pet the way they need? Today, Dr. Amanda talks about how caring for senior dogs and cats means adapting the way we show affection as their bodies, brains, and preferences change.

She gets into:

  • The grief and guilt that can come up when pets can no longer do the activities they once loved, and how to keep the bond in new ways
  • Respecting their boundaries and staying connected through gentler interaction
  • Practical ways to support senior pets, including sniff walks, stroller walks, rehab exercises, and more
  • Enrichment tools like lick mats and snuffle mats for mental stimulation and a sense of purpose
  • Why it's important to check for other causes of behavior changes, like pain or anxiety, before assuming it's just aging or dementia
  • Predictable routines, especially in the evening, to help reduce stress and support pets with cognitive changes

If you're a pet caregiver, listen in for some encouragement to stay present, and a reminder that loving a senior pet well may look different than it used to.


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TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

00:00 - Why senior pet care is emotional, not just tactical
04:28 - Her personal experience with her heart dog, Floyd
09:49 - Gentle ways to bond with a senior pet
17:57 - Massages can be quality time together
21:40 - Brain games for senior pets
28:30 - Why predictable bedtime routines can help
35:29 - Loving a senior pet well doesn't mean loving them the same way you always have
40:53 - Cherishing the moment and staying present

Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

20. The Real Uncensored Answers About Librela10 Sep 202600:44:09

Is Librela safe for my pet? In this episode, Dr. Amanda talks about Librela for senior dogs, including what the drug is, how it works, and why it's such a debated topic.

She discusses:

  • What Librela is
  • Osteoarthritis and why it's so common in senior pets, and why pain management decisions can be difficult
  • How we approach Librela treatment in practice, usually starting with other options first and using a multimodal plan
  • The studies behind Librela, including placebo-controlled trials and head-to-head comparisons with Meloxicam and Galliprant
  • Safety concerns and reported adverse events, including neurologic signs, increased drinking and urination, and more
  • How we use Librela in specific cases, especially when other options aren't enough or aren't appropriate

Listen in if you want to make an informed decision and learn more about the risks and benefits of Librela so you can choose what's best for your dog.

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TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

00:00 Introducing Librela
02:47 What Librela actually is
08:52 Human trials and FDA history
13:16 Does Librela work?
19:27 Librela safety concerns
30:04 Hidden conditions and side effects
32:38 Multimodal pain management
33:44 Dr. Amanda's approach to Librela
40:37 What are your thoughts on Librela?

Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

19. Move It or Lose It - Safe Exercises for Senior Pets03 Sep 202600:24:31

What are some safe exercises for my senior pet? In this episode, Dr. Amanda talks about how to help senior dogs and cats stay active and keep moving safely as they age.

She explains:

  • Why movement still matters
  • The importance of maintaining a healthy body condition and monitoring muscle condition over time
  • How in-person rehabilitation evaluations can help, especially for pets with mobility issues
  • Simple, safe exercises for both senior dogs and senior cats
  • What types of movement or activity to avoid
  • Integrative and rehabilitation approaches that can support long-term mobility

Muscle wasting and frailty in senior pets can be improved, and adding safe exercises into your pet's daily routine can make a real difference in their comfort and mobility. If this sounds like your senior dog or cat, this episode is for you.

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TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

00:00 Quick check-in and getting started on safe senior pet movement
04:12 Why arthritis and muscle loss are so common
05:59 Protecting joints and muscle as pets age
09:12 Simple exercises for dogs
17:05 Simple exercises for cats
20:18 Setting up your home to support movement for cats
21:20 Integrative options for mobility
22:50 Wrapping up

Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

18. Is This Lump a Problem?01 Sep 202600:32:59

Is this lump a problem? Today, Dr. Steffen covers how to evaluate skin masses, lumps, and bumps on senior pets, and why you shouldn't assume a mass is harmless based on appearance alone.

She explains:

  • Why terms like "tumor" or "mass" don't automatically mean cancer, but a meaningful number of skin masses can be cancerous and should be checked
  • What pet parents can monitor at home, including how keeping a monthly record with photos and notes can help track changes and give your vet better information
  • The rule of ones for dogs
  • The 3-2-1 rule for cats
  • The usual diagnostic steps, starting with a fine needle aspirate and, if needed, a biopsy
  • Why early testing can make treatment easier
  • How integrative options like herbs or other supportive therapies may come into play

Listen in if you have questions about lumps and bumps on your dog or cat.

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TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

00:00 Quick check-in and getting started on pet lumps and bumps
05:12 Why wait and see can backfire
08:32 Where integrative medicine fits in
09:40 Red flags to call your vet
11:00 The rule of ones and 3-2-1 for cats
13:35 More on mast cell tumors
15:44 Removing a new mass, starting with FNA
19:33 What a biopsy is and how it's done
23:06 4 things you can check at home
28:52 Integrative and holistic treatment options
30:49 Wrapping up and recap


Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

17. The 10-Minute Monthly Checkup That Could Add Years to Your Pet's Life27 Aug 202600:39:02

What should I check on my aging pet every month? In this episode, Dr. Steffen shares a once-a-month, 10-minute senior pet checkup she calls her Aging Gracefully checklist, something you can do at home to catch changes earlier in dogs and cats.

She covers:

  • Why small changes can be easy to miss unless you track them over time
  • Weight and body condition
  • Eating, drinking, and gastrointestinal signs, and why trends matter more than single isolated events
  • Litter box and bathroom changes, and how shifts in frequency, location, or amount of urination and defecation can be early signs of disease
  • Mobility changes, including stiffness, difficulty with stairs, and trouble rising
  • Gum and dental checks
  • Eye cloudiness, ear discharge, skin and coat changes, lumps and bumps, nail changes, and lymph node checks
  • Resting breathing rate and cognitive changes such as wandering, staring, getting lost, pacing, and altered recognition

Listen in for the simple things that can help you catch problems early, and help give your pet a longer, happier, healthier life.


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TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

00:00 Why monthly checkups matter more than you think
03:18 The key health indicators worth tracking
04:27 Rusty's diabetes diagnosis
08:02 Watching for weight and muscle loss
11:25 When appetite and eating habits start to change
14:32 Drinking, urination, and GI signs to watch
17:53 Litter box and movement changes in cats
22:38 Signs your pet might be uncomfortable or have mobility issues
27:09 Dental health and how to check their mouth
31:33 Checking breathing rate and respiratory health
34:03 Spotting cognitive changes and signs of dementia
35:18 Where to grab the free checklist and get support


Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

16. How to Make Your Home Senior Pet Friendly25 Aug 202600:36:13

Is your home set up for your senior pet? Today, Dr. Steffen focuses on how a senior pet's home environment affects daily comfort and mobility. Senior pets spend most of their time at home, so layout and surfaces around the house can really improve their quality of life.

She talks about:

  • Ways to make floors safer, especially hardwood and laminate surfaces
  • Ramps, stairs, and stair treads for access to couches, beds, and different levels of the home
  • Bedding recommendations and tips on where to place them
  • Why furniture changes should be kept to a minimum, especially as vision changes
  • The benefits of nightlights in dark areas, raised food and water bowls, and keeping essentials available on each floor
  • For senior cats: low-entry litter boxes and other small home changes worth making

Listen in if you're ready to make some small home changes that can make a meaningful difference, are fairly inexpensive, and help support your senior pet's comfort and easy access around the house.

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TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

00:00 - Introduction to the senior pet home environment
02:20 - Orthopedic beds and flooring considerations
06:01 - How flooring affects senior pets' confidence
08:20 - Using rugs, mats, and traction aids
13:21 - Training stairs and ramps for safe mobility
17:14 - Choosing the right beds and where to place them
20:02 - Safety tips for stairs, falls, and vision changes
25:32 - Lighting, accessibility, and home layout
29:21 - Litter box and feeding station setup
32:15 - Recap of key home modifications for senior pets


Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

15. Age Is Not a Disease: Rethinking Senior Pet Care with Dr. Hunter (Part 2)20 Aug 202600:54:21

Age is not a disease. We're back with Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Steffen and Dr. Hunter, where they continue digging into senior pets, sharing takes on tools, quality of life, integrative medicine, and common misconceptions.

They discuss:

  • The practical challenges that come with aging dogs and cats
  • The need for more at-home support, especially for larger pets
  • How senior status is often met with denial from pet parents, and why it helps to prepare early for changes in mobility and lifestyle
  • More quality-of-life conversations, including how owners define their non-negotiables and why their own limits matter too
  • Integrative medicine, and how their views on it have changed over time
  • How pain often shows up as subtle behavior changes
  • Thoughts on clinic setup for senior appointments, including easier access and more time for exams

Listen in to hear their thoughts on managing aging pets and improving their well-being.

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TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

00:00 - Why senior pets need more at-home support
05:34 - Talking through quality of life with pet owners
11:31 - Dr. Hunter's thoughts on integrative medicine
17:55 - Choosing supplements you can actually trust
23:21 - The biggest misconceptions senior pet owners walk in with
27:29 - Why dental pain is such a big source of discomfort
34:22 - Setting up the clinic for senior pets
37:37 - One thing to start doing tomorrow for your senior pet
40:24 - Wishing for a magic wand for dementia and arthritis
49:34 - Clinic memories and closing out


Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

14. Senior Pet Care in General Practice with Dr. Hunter (Part 1)18 Aug 202600:46:33

What vets wish pet parents knew about senior pet care. In this first part of a 2-part series, Dr. Steffen is joined by one of her best friends and general practice vet, Dr. Terrence Hunter, who now owns his own practice, WAG Vet. They share experiences from veterinary medicine, explore senior pet care, and why thorough exams and client communication matter so much.

They chat about:

  • Personal memories from their time in practice together
  • Seeing senior pets in general practice, and how much of what he sees now is senior animals
  • What senior pet parents often come in too late for
  • Common senior pet problems not to be alarmed by
  • Recognizing quality of life changes
  • End-of-life conversations, cost discussions, and why senior appointments need more time

This is a great episode for hearing some common misconceptions pet owners have about aging pets, and the things vets wish you knew when it comes to caring for your senior pet.

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TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Hunter
04:05 - Stories Dr. Steffen and Dr. Hunter share about working together
12:17 - Animal care stories involving goats and chickens
15:22 - What it's like seeing senior pets
17:11 - Subtle signs owners often miss
20:25 - What senior pet parents come in too late for
25:40 - Recognizing quality of life changes
28:38 - Normal aging signs vs. when to seek veterinary advice
32:59 - The hardest conversations to have with pet parents
40:21 - Making time for seniors in a practice setting
45:36 - Part one wrap-up



Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

13. Is My Senior Dog Having an Emergency? What to Watch For13 Aug 202600:38:24

How do I know if my dog is having a medical emergency? Last week was all about common cat emergencies, and today we're focusing on dogs. Dr. Amanda walks through 5 common emergencies she sees and the signs to watch for, so you can feel more prepared as a pet parent.

Including:

  • Sudden collapse (fainting, internal bleeding, hemangiosarcoma): what it can mean and what to check first
  • Bloat (GDV) and the warning signs
  • Preventive gastropexy for high-risk breeds
  • Pain flare-ups from arthritis, disc disease, or dental issues, and why having a "flare plan" with your vet matters
  • Labored breathing and neurologic emergencies like seizures and vestibular disease
  • How to check resting respiratory rate, spot abnormal gums, and recognize signs like head tilt or stumbling

Listen in for practical tips, warning signs, and why proactive care matters so much so that you can prepare and respond effectively for your pet.


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TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

00:00 - Senior pet emergencies and why they matter
02:12 - Understanding sudden collapse and its causes
05:15 - Hemangiosarcoma
13:21 - Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus, GDV) in large breeds
21:18 - Recognizing pain and managing flare-ups
25:43 - Breathing emergencies
28:56 - Neurologic emergencies: seizures and vestibular disease
34:52 - Preparing for emergencies and why quick action matters


Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

12. 5 Common Senior Cat Emergencies Every Owner Should Know11 Aug 202600:39:24

How do I know if my cat is having a medical emergency? In today's episode, Dr. Amanda Steffen walks through 5 common senior cat emergencies. If you've ever found yourself wondering whether you needed to rush to the emergency hospital or get to your family vet urgently because something felt off with your cat, this one's for you.

She covers:

  • Respiratory distress, including heavy breathing, belly breathing, or panting
  • Kidney disease is common in older cats and can present with vomiting, lethargy, and changes in urination
  • Why cats not eating for more than 24 hours becomes serious quickly
  • Saddle thrombus (aortic thromboembolism), where a cat suddenly can't use one or both back legs and may cry out in pain
  • Diabetic ketoacidosis, especially in diabetic or newly diagnosed cats, which can cause vomiting, weakness, appetite loss, and more.
  • How to have open conversations with your vet about symptoms, testing, and budget, and why quick action can make a major difference

This is a great way to know what to watch for and what to expect if you ever end up at the emergency vet with your senior cat.

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TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

00:00 - Why senior cats need their own care considerations
02:20 - Signs and urgency of respiratory distress in cats
04:53 - Understanding normal vs. abnormal breathing rates
07:44 - Common causes of respiratory distress in senior cats
11:18 - What to expect if your cat is hospitalized for breathing issues
14:28 - Kidney failure symptoms and emergency response
17:13 - Diagnostic testing for kidney disease and GI issues
21:55 - Preventing kidney failure
22:23 - Inappetence and vomiting as emergency signs
27:21 - Saddle thrombus symptoms and emergency treatment
32:13 - Diabetic ketoacidosis in senior cats and its urgency


Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

11. Are You Exhausted as a Senior Pet Parent?06 Aug 202600:42:44

Caregiver burden and exhaustion are real, even for pet parents. Today, let's talk about the impact caregiving has on you, not just your pet.

Dr. Amanda covers:

  • The impact senior pet caregiving has on us as pet parents
  • The caregiver burden in practical terms: missing social events, work interruptions, and the constant worry about leaving your pet alone
  • Anticipatory grief, guilt, and hindsight bias, including how hard it is to make treatment decisions without knowing the outcome
  • The challenge of deciding when it's time to let a pet go, and why that decision feels emotionally difficult even when it's made with care
  • 5 ways to support yourself and your pet better, including making a flare plan
  • Identifying end-of-life red flags in advance

Caregiving is hard, but no one has to do it alone, and that support can make the process more manageable. Listen in if you want to feel less alone and more understood in what you're going through.


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TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

00:00 - The emotional impact of caring for senior pets
02:23 - Understanding caregiver burden and its effects
05:04 - What research says about stress and depression in pet owners
06:36 - Assessment tools for caregiver burden
10:26 - Why self-care and recognizing stress matters
13:17 - Understanding anticipatory grief and its effects
17:17 - Deciding when to consider euthanasia
21:32 - Living in the moment: your pet's perspective on pain and suffering
22:55 - The role of veterinary support and planning
25:09 - Creating a flare plan for emergencies
29:23 - Recognizing red flags in pet health
32:01 - Talking openly with your vet about end-of-life care
35:23 - Self-care tips for pet owners
38:24 - Asking for help and building your support team
40:07 - Final encouragement and self-compassion


Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

10. Why Your Senior Pet Might Need More Protein, Not Less04 Aug 202600:28:37

How much protein should my senior pet get? In this episode, Dr. Amanda discusses a common misconception: that protein should automatically be reduced as pets age. In reality, a lot of the time we actually need to be giving our seniors more protein, not less.

She covers:

  • Why protein restriction isn't supported by current research for most healthy senior pets, and how it can contribute to muscle loss, frailty, and a shorter lifespan
  • How muscle wasting impacts senior pets, such as reduced mobility, slower recovery, and more
  • Why cats and dogs can lose significant muscle mass with age, and why early nutrition changes matter
  • Protein needs for senior pets, including gram-per-kilogram guidelines and how they shift for dogs and cats
  • How to read food labels and why dry matter calculations matter, especially for wet, homemade, or fresh diets

Listen in to learn more about senior pet protein needs, and how muscle loss can be improved through diet changes, easier-to-digest protein sources, and other supportive care.


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TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

00:00 - Introduction to senior pet nutrition and common misconceptions
02:19 - How muscle wasting affects lifespan and quality of life
03:05 - Reevaluating protein restriction in healthy senior pets
06:07 - Specific dietary needs for senior dogs
08:27 - Specific dietary needs for senior cats
09:15 - Reading pet food labels
11:39 - Recommendations for dry food, wet food, and more
15:30 - Muscle loss in cats and how protein can help
19:23 - Easier proteins for senior pets
21:39 - Muscle loss affects more than mobility
23:18 - The exception to adjusting protein
25:00 - Final thoughts on restricting protein in senior pets


Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

9. How to Choose a Good Supplement for Your Pet30 Jul 202600:23:13

How do you choose a good supplement for your pet? Today, Dr. Amanda talks about why pet supplements can be so confusing for senior dog and cat parents, especially since many products make big claims without much behind them.

She covers:

  • Why terms like "natural," "organic," and "holistic" aren't regulated in veterinary supplements, so they shouldn't be taken as proof of quality or effectiveness
  • 3 things to actually look for in a supplement, including the NASC seal and a certificate of analysis (COA), plus why to watch out for proprietary blends, missing lot numbers, and products without matching test results.
  • Why it's worth involving your veterinarian before starting supplements, especially for pets with conditions like diabetes, pancreatitis, or thyroid disease, or those already on medications

Listen in if you're curious about what to look for and what to ask for when it comes to pet supplements.

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TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

00:00 - Understanding the confusion around pet supplements
05:26 - Key things to consider when choosing supplements
5:51 - What the labels really mean
9:10 - Certificates of analysis, explained
12:22 - Why you should tell your vet everything
16:22 - Your supplement checklist
18:03 - Choosing the right supplement
22:07 - Final thoughts on pet supplements


Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

8. What to Ask at Your Senior Cat's Vet Visit28 Jul 202600:35:45

What should a senior cat vet visit include? Today, Dr. Amanda is back with another vet visit episode, but this time all about cats and what to ask for during your appointments.

She discusses:

  • Why senior pet care is an investment, and why routine monitoring often means blood work, urine testing, and other diagnostics every 6-12 months
  • Common early clues: weight loss, reduced activity, litter box changes, changes in appetite or drinking, and more.
  • The key routine checks to request, starting with body condition score and muscle condition score
  • Basic diagnostics, including CBC, chemistry panel, urine testing, and blood pressure measurement
  • Thyroid testing, SDMA for earlier kidney screening, and ProBNP for heart muscle injury
  • Integrative exam approaches, including Chinese medicine assessments like tongue, skin, heat, trigger points, and overall demeanor

Listen in so that when you go in for a veterinary visit with your cat, you'll know what to ask, what to advocate for, and what tests you should be running.


LINKS


TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

00:00 - Senior cat care basics
02:40 - What to ask at vet visits
09:53 - Key routine checks: body and muscle scores
15:17 - Blood tests to request
18:19 - Urine and blood pressure checks
23:03 - Thyroid and kidney screening
26:05 - Imaging for cancer detection
28:34 - Advocating for your cat at the vet
32:04 - Eastern medicine exam approaches


Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

7. How to Prepare for Your Senior Dog's Vet Visit23 Jul 202600:40:08

What to bring with you and your dog to the vet. In this episode, Dr. Amanda talks all about what to expect at a senior dog veterinary visit and how to prepare for one.

She discusses:

  • Prepping for the visit, including bringing a complete history, diet, supplements, written questions, and any videos or notes on changes you've seen at home
  • Two things to always ask about: body condition score and muscle condition score
  • Muscle loss and frailty, and how diet, calories, and rehab exercises can help
  • Senior wellness panel, including CBC, chemistry panel, urinalysis, blood pressure, thyroid testing, and SDMA, and what we're actually looking for in these tests
  • When more testing is needed, such as heart evaluation, ProBMP, and cancer screening
  • The cost of all of this, and how to think it through

Remember that senior pet care should be a shared plan between you and your veterinarian, based on your pet's needs and your family's budget. If you have questions on what to bring, listen in!


LINKS


TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

00:00 - Preparing for your senior pet vet visit
02:03 - What to bring to your dog’s vet visit
06:04 - Cost considerations and understanding veterinary care
10:17 - The testing that goes into caring for a senior pet
12:01 - Question 1: Body condition score
13:52 - Question 2: Muscle condition score, and what to do about it
20:17 - Senior wellness panel: bloodwork, chemistry panel, urinalysis, blood pressure, thyroid panel, SDMA
27:22 - What we're actually looking for in these tests
28:44 - Testing for common cancers in dogs, plus other testing if something's off
32:30 - Imaging: X-rays and specialist tests
35:33 - The costs of some of these tests, and how to think it through
36:07 - Recap and being your pet's best advocate


Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

6. Weight Loss in Senior Cats Is Never Normal21 Jul 202600:23:07

My cat's losing weight. Should I be worried? That's exactly what Dr. Amanda focuses on in this episode - senior cat weight loss and why any unexplained changes should be taken seriously.

She covers:

  • Why weight loss isn't normal unless it's intentional, and why weighing your cat monthly helps
  • The main causes of weight loss in senior cats
  • Hyperthyroidism, which can cause a ravenous appetite along with weight loss
  • Diabetes, especially in cats eating more but still losing weight, and when oral medication can work instead of insulin
  • For cats losing weight with a reduced appetite: dental disease, kidney disease, and GI disease.

Cats are pros at hiding illness, muscle loss matters even when weight looks normal, and catching things early gives your cat the best shot at a long, good life. Listen in now!


LINKS


TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

0:00 - Senior cat weight loss (why it matters and monthly weigh-in tips)
3:07 - Why cats lose weight, including muscle wasting
4:05 - Watch for subtle changes
4:54 - Red flag: weight loss with a good appetite
7:17 - High thyroid in cats
9:43 - Diabetes clues to watch for
13:58 - Red flag: poor appetite
16:56 - Muscle loss in cats and kidney concerns
20:48 - Why catching problems early matters


Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

5. What Integrative Veterinary Medicine Actually Means (And What It Doesn't)16 Jul 202600:38:26

What does integrative veterinary medicine actually mean? That's what Dr. Amanda digs into today, including the buzzwords you'll hear that don't really mean much in the world of medicine, and how to make sure whoever you're seeing is practicing evidence-based care.

She covers:

  • The difference between integrative care, alternative care, and labels like "holistic" or "natural"
  • A real case example: Fonzie, a 15-year-old cat whose care involved a Western veterinarian, acupuncture, internal medicine, and rehabilitation
  • Four questions to ask before choosing an integrative or alternative practitioner
  • The role of evidence-based medicine, including acupuncture studies in dogs
  • Her own patient stories using acupuncture, herbs, or rehab for conditions like dementia, arthritis, seizures, anxiety, and mobility issues

Listen in if you're ready to ask the right questions when choosing a practitioner for your senior pet.


LINKS


TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

00:00 - Introduction to integrative veterinary medicine and Fonzie the senior cat
04:10 - Fonzie's acupuncture and whole medical team story
08:21 - Understanding holistic and alternative medicine, and why Dr. Amanda chose integrative medicine
11:24 - 4 questions to ask when choosing an integrative practitioner
12:06 - Licensing and certification in integrative medicine
14:25 - What does the evidence actually say
15:58 - How will you know when it's working and by when
21:36 - More on Chinese and Western medicine
28:38 - The future of collaborative care
31:46 - Success stories with acupuncture and Chinese medicine
36:12 - Final reflections

Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

4. How Do I Know If My Pet Has Dementia?14 Jul 202600:24:55

How do I know if my dog or cat has dementia? Today, Dr. Amanda is talking all about how to recognize the early signs of cognitive decline in senior dogs and cats.

She gets into:

  • How pets can develop this condition as they age, and why catching changes early helps support their quality of life
  • Why there's no single test that confirms dementia and the importance of ruling out other causes first
  • DISHAALV framework for recognizing signs
  • How these changes can affect caregivers too
  • Simple home adjustments that can help, plus integrative options

Dementia signs do not mean nothing can be done; listen in for more ways to support your senior pet.


LINKS


TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

00:00 - Pet dementia and why it matters

01:47 - Understanding dementia in pets

03:16 - Why early recognition and intervention matter

04:34 - Common signs of dementia in senior pets

05:32 - DISHAALV protocol for recognizing signs

06:33 - D: Disorientation

07:35 - I: Interaction changes

09:22 - S: Sleep-wake cycle changes

11:32 - H: House soiling

13:23 - A: Activity changes

16:13 - A: Anxiety in senior pets

18:20 - L: Learning and memory changes

19:34 - V: Vocalization signs

20:28 - Treatment options and hope for senior pets


Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

3. Is My Pet in Pain? Managing Arthritis in Senior Dogs and Cats09 Jul 202600:44:03

Is my pet in pain? It's one of the hardest questions to answer because pets are so good at hiding it. In this episode, Dr. Steffen dives into pain management in senior dogs and cats, with a focus on arthritis and how it quietly shows up through changes in movement, behavior, grooming, and daily routines.

She gets into:

  • How common arthritis really is in senior pets
  • Recognizing the signs of pain in dogs and cats
  • There's no single "best" treatment for every pet
  • Multimodal pain management strategies (why one approach usually isn't enough)
  • Western and alternative treatment options
  • The risks and benefits of NSAIDs and medications
  • The role of acupuncture, laser therapy, and CBD
  • Simple home modifications for comfort and safety like ramps, rugs, litter box access, beds, bowls, and stair support

Senior pets aren't helpless, and even with arthritis, there are still so many ways to improve their comfort and quality of life - listen in to learn how.

LINKS

TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

00:00 - Introduction to senior pet pain management
03:43 - Understanding pain in senior pets
11:13 - How to spot pain symptoms in your pet
19:59 - Multimodal pain management strategies
30:34 - Alternative therapies and home care tips
39:03 - Building a personalized care plan for senior pets



Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

2. What's Normal vs. Abnormal: Subtle Signs of Aging in Senior Pets09 Jul 202600:53:41

Trust your intuition when something feels off with your pet; it's often the first clue that matters most. In this episode, Dr. Amanda Steffen focuses on 10 different body systems and what's normal versus abnormal in senior dogs and cats, and why the subtle signs of aging are so easy to miss — they tend to develop slowly, over weeks or months, rather than all at once.

She discusses:

  • Why pet parents play such an important role in noticing what's normal vs. abnormal
  • Subtle signs of aging that pet owners often miss
  • Arthritis in senior dogs and cats — what to watch for
  • Muscle wasting and how it affects your pet's quality of life
  • Eye changes: nuclear sclerosis vs. cataracts (and how to tell them apart)
  • Cognitive decline and dementia in aging pets
  • Integrative veterinary medicine, blending Western and Chinese approaches for supportive care

If you're a pet owner who wants practical tips for spotting the early signs of aging and knowing when it's time to act, get out your paper and pencil; this episode is for you.

LINKS

TRANSCRIPT

TIME STAMPS

00:00 - Introduction to subtle aging signs in pets
00:56 - Why pet parents often miss the small changes
02:22 - Why trusting your gut matters for your pet's health
03:16 - Arthritis in pets over 8-12 years old
04:39 - Recognizing early signs of pain and discomfort
06:31 - Eye changes: nuclear sclerosis vs. cataracts
14:49 - Muscle wasting in senior pets and its effects
20:13 - Signs of arthritis and joint pain in pets
22:30 - Early signs of osteoarthritis in dogs
24:12 - Western and Chinese approaches to joint health
26:34 - Recognizing early signs of arthritis and pain
27:40 - Pain management and how to prepare as an owner
28:47 - Cognitive decline and dementia in pets
30:44 - Success stories in treating cognitive issues
33:01 - Monitoring weight changes for early disease detection
35:08 - Why regular weight checks and blood work matter



Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

1. Is My Pet a Senior? Meet Your Vet & What Defines a Senior Pet09 Jul 202600:31:18

When does a pet become a senior? Welcome to the very first episode of Senior Pet Talk! In this episode, veterinarian Dr. Amanda Steffen breaks down one of the questions pet owners ask most: when does my dog or cat actually become a "senior" — and why does it matter so much?


This episode gets into:

  • Getting to know Dr. Amanda Steffen and her approach to senior pet care
  • How to recognize the signs of aging and support your pet's health as they get older
  • The evolving world of senior pet care, including integrative veterinary medicine

This is where to start if you're ready to understand what senior pet care really looks like and how to improve your pet's quality of life in their golden years.


LINKS

TRANSCRIPT


TIME STAMPS

00:00 - Intro to senior pet care

02:53 - What actually makes a pet a "senior"

05:46 - Why proactive care matters more than you think

09:07 - My personal journey with senior pets

12:06 - How size and breed change when seniorhood starts

17:47 - Why regular vet visits and blood work matter so much

24:47 - Recap and encouragement for pet owners



Disclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.

Welcome to Senior Pet Talk!23 Jun 202600:03:46

Welcome to Senior Pet Talk! Your whole-medicine approach guide to becoming the most prepared and informed advocate for your senior pet. Bring what you learn here into every vet visit, every care decision, and every stage of the journey ahead.

Today, Dr. Amanda Steffen, integrative veterinarian and founder of Floyd's Tale Mobile Veterinary Services, shares why the show exists and opens up about her personal why: her experience with her own senior dog, Floyd. That experience is what led her to start an in-home senior pet practice, and eventually, this podcast, so other pet parents wouldn't have to face it without support.

She walks through the medical philosophy behind the show, and looks ahead to what's coming — topics that rarely get enough airtime during a short vet visit, like pain, nutrition, dementia, mobility, cancer, and end-of-life care.

Everyone is doing the best they can with the information they have. This show is here to give you more of it.

So listen in if you're ready to better understand the aging process, walk into vet appointments prepared, and advocate for your pet with more confidence.

Follow Senior Pet Talk and find Dr. Amanda on Instagram at @‌dr.amanda.vet.

TRANSCRIPT


CHAPTERS

  • 0:00 - First signs of change
  • 0:58 - Floyd's story
  • 1:19 - A Promise to pet parents
  • 1:41 - Meet Dr. Steffen
  • 2:01 - Blending Western medicine with Eastern holistic approaches
  • 2:25 - The philosophy behind the show
  • 2:36 - What topics you can expect each week
  • 3:17 - Why this show exists
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