Present this coupon to claim your pet's free first exam and get started with care designed around your pet.

Learn how CareCredit can help make veterinary care more manageable with flexible financing options for wellness visits, dental care, emergencies, and more.

We Accept CareCredit: A Flexible Way to Pay for Your Pet's Care

Follow this ultimate cat owner checklist for essential tips on veterinary care, nutrition, dental health, enrichment, grooming, and preventive care.

The Ultimate Cat Owner Checklist: Everything Your Cat Needs to Thrive

Learn how to make your home more cat-friendly with simple tips for climbing, scratching, play, enrichment, relaxation, and overall well-being.

How to Make Your Home More Cat-Friendly

How often should cats see a veterinarian? Learn about cat wellness exams, vaccine schedules, preventive care, and vet visits at every life stage.

How Often Should Cats See a Veterinarian? A Guide to Wellness Exams and Vaccines

Learn why pet vaccines are an important part of preventive care, how core and non-core vaccines work, and why staying current helps protect dogs and cats.

Pet Immunization Awareness Month: Why Vaccines Matter

Fri Apr 04 2025 22:37:38 GMT+0530 (India Standard Time)

Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates

about-us-page

our-history-section

our-teams-section

We are dedicated to providing the highest level of care along with friendly, compassionate service.

why-us-section

app-download-page

blogs-page

blogs-section

book-appointment-page

book-appointment-section

Embedded content

care-memberships

care-plan

career-page

careers-section

Dr. Roy Madigan, D.V.M., is not just a veterinarian. He is one of the leading experts in canine Chagas disease in the United States.
 
• Founder of Vida Pharmacal, focused on breakthrough parasitic disease treatments
 • Filed the first veterinary drug patent for anti-T. cruzi activity in dogs
 • Principal scientist for the U.S. military working dog Chagas treatment study
 • Veterinary lead for the Texas Chagas Task Force alongside the CDC and UT Health
 • Pioneer in developing diagnostic and treatment protocols for infected dogs
 
Your pet is being treated by the same expert helping shape how Chagas disease is understood nationwide.

Get In Touch

Chagas disease progresses in stages. The earlier it is identified:
 
 • The more treatment options are available
 • The better heart damage can be managed
 • The higher the chance of improving quality of life
 
Waiting can mean irreversible cardiac damage.

Early Detection. Advanced Treatment. Led by One of the Nation’s Top Experts.

Do not wait for symptoms to appear.

Chagas disease is often silent early on, but warning signs may include:
 
 • Lethargy or decreased activity
 • Fainting or collapse
 • Irregular heartbeat
 • Difficulty breathing
 • Unexplained weight loss
 
If your dog spends time outdoors, lives in Central Texas, or has been exposed to insects, they may be at risk even without symptoms.

If your dog may have been exposed to kissing bugs, do not wait. Chagas disease can silently damage the heart before symptoms appear. Early diagnosis can make the difference.

At Central Texas Vet, we go beyond standard testing.
Dr. Madigan is actively developing advanced serologic testing methods to improve detection accuracy.
 
Your dog’s evaluation may include:
 
 • Comprehensive physical exam
 • Cardiac screening
 • Specialized blood testing for T. cruzi
 • Advanced diagnostics when needed
 
Early detection allows for better management and improved outcomes.

Chagas disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, transmitted by “kissing bugs” commonly found in Texas.
Once infected, dogs may appear normal while the parasite attacks the heart and other organs.
 
Without intervention, Chagas can lead to:
 
 • Heart disease
 • Arrhythmias
 • Sudden death

Questions? We Have Answers

If your dog may be at risk, schedule an evaluation today and get answers from one of the leading experts in the field.

chagas-disease

At The Animal Hospital of Smithson Valley, we go beyond standard testing.Dr. Madigan is actively developing advanced serologic testing methods to improve detection accuracy.Your dog’s evaluation may include:<ul><li>Comprehensive physical exam</li><li>Cardiac screening</li><li>Specialized blood testing for T. cruzi</li><li>Advanced diagnostics when needed</li></ul>Early detection allows for better management and improved outcomes.

Dr. Roy Madigan, D.V.M., is not just a veterinarian. He is one of the leading experts in canine Chagas disease in the United States.<ul><li>Founder of Vida Pharmacal, focused on breakthrough parasitic disease treatments</li><li>Filed the first veterinary drug patent for anti-T. cruzi activity in dogs</li><li>Principal scientist for the U.S. military working dog Chagas treatment study</li><li>Veterinary lead for the Texas Chagas Task Force alongside the CDC and UT Health</li><li>Pioneer in developing diagnostic and treatment protocols for infected dogs</li></ul>Your pet is being treated by the same expert helping shape how Chagas disease is understood nationwide.

Chagas disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, transmitted by “kissing bugs” commonly found in Texas.Once infected, dogs may appear normal while the parasite attacks the heart and other organs.Without intervention, Chagas can lead to:<ul><li>Sudden death</li><li>Heart disease</li><li>Arrhythmias</li></ul>

Chagas disease progresses in stages. The earlier it is identified:<ul><li>The more treatment options are available</li><li>The better heart damage can be managed</li><li>The higher the chance of improving quality of life</li></ul>Waiting can mean irreversible cardiac damage.

Chagas disease is often silent early on, but warning signs may include:<ul><li>Lethargy or decreased activity</li><li>Fainting or collapse</li><li>Irregular heartbeat</li><li>Difficulty breathing</li><li>Unexplained weight loss</li></ul>If your dog spends time outdoors, lives in Central Texas, or has been exposed to insects, they may be at risk even without symptoms.

chagas-disease-ahsv

Chagas disease progresses in stages. The earlier it is identified:
 
 • The more treatment options are available
 • The better heart damage can be managed
 • The higher the chance of improving quality of&nbsp; life
 
Waiting can mean irreversible cardiac damage.<div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div>

Chagas disease is often silent early on, but warning signs may include:
 
 • Lethargy or decreased activity
 • Fainting or collapse
 • Irregular heartbeat
 • Difficulty breathing
 • Unexplained weight loss
 
If your dog spends time outdoors, lives in Central Texas, or has been exposed to insects, they may be at risk even without symptoms.<div> </div><div> </div>

chagas-disease-ctv

contact-us

copy-of-chagas-disease

Is Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates accepting new patients?

#1f2937

Do you offer care for senior pets?

No, the hospital focuses on veterinary care for dogs and cats and does not provide care for exotic pets or reptiles.

Does Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates treat exotic pets?

During your first appointment, the veterinary team will review your pet’s medical history, perform a physical exam, discuss any concerns, and recommend a personalized care plan.

Can Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates perform surgeries?

The hospital can assist with urgent veterinary concerns during regular business hours and recommends contacting an emergency veterinary hospital for after-hours emergencies.

What should I expect during my pet’s first visit?

Does Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates provide pet dental care?

Yes, the hospital welcomes new patients and offers comprehensive veterinary care for pets of all ages.

Yes, the veterinary team provides wellness care, diagnostics, and personalized treatment plans designed to support senior pets as they age.

Pet owners choose Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates for its compassionate veterinary team, personalized care, and commitment to providing quality everyday veterinary services for dogs and cats.

Yes, pet owners can conveniently request appointments online through the hospital’s website.

What types of pets does Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates treat?

Does Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates provide emergency veterinary care?

Accordion Title

No, the hospital does not provide specialized orthopedic surgery services. If your pet requires advanced orthopedic care, the team may recommend a specialty referral center.

Yes, the hospital offers professional dental cleanings, oral health evaluations, and preventative dental care for pets.

Does Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates provide preventative care for pets?

Yes, preventative care services include routine wellness exams, vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, heartworm prevention, and parasite screenings.

The hospital can evaluate common skin and ear concerns during routine exams, but does not provide specialty veterinary dermatology services.

Can I schedule a veterinary appointment online?

Does Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates offer dermatology services?

What veterinary services are offered at Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates?

Why do pet owners choose Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates?

Services include wellness exams, vaccinations, diagnostic testing, pet dental care, surgery, parasite prevention, nutritional counseling, and senior pet care.

Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates provides veterinary care for dogs and cats with a focus on preventative medicine, wellness care, diagnostics, and general veterinary services.

Does Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates offer orthopedic surgery?

Yes, the veterinary team performs routine surgical procedures, including spay and neuter surgeries and other general soft tissue procedures.

forms-page

form-section

get-in-touch

landing-page

contact-us-section

cta-bar

emergency-branches

faq-section

footer-section

hero-section

otto-widget-section

our-services-section

testimonials-section

vetstoria-widget-section

Financial Aid:

Obedience:

Local Dog Parks:

Boarding Kennels In Our Area:

Microchipping:

Doggie Daycare in our Area:

Adoptions:

General Information:

links-and-resources

news-page

our-history-page

Our East Side Entrance is located on Early Street, across from the Hanover Apartment Building. Our North Side Entrance is located on Irby Avenue, across from Woody’s Cheesesteak.

parking

payment-info-page

payment-information-section

payment-section-3

promotions

services-page

service-page-section

team-page

teams-page-section

video-page

pixel_google

pixel_facebook

Header Cookie Consent - 671f33c5d8e9f7c6b5f082c9

cookie_settings_1750955345987

<button id="ot-sdk-btn" class="ot-sdk-show-settings">Cookie Settings</button>

cookie_list_1750955346272

cookie_microsoft

<h1 dir="auto">Caring for Senior Cats: What Changes With Age?</h1>Cats are living longer than ever thanks to advances in veterinary medicine, nutrition, and preventive care. While it's wonderful to enjoy more years with our feline companions, aging also brings changes that require a little extra attention.Just like people, senior cats experience physical and behavioral changes as they grow older. Understanding what is considered a normal part of aging, and what may signal an underlying health issue, can help your cat enjoy a healthier and more comfortable life.<h2 dir="auto">When Is a Cat Considered a Senior?</h2>Most veterinarians consider cats to enter their senior years around 7 to 10 years of age, although every cat ages differently.As cats get older, routine wellness visits become increasingly important. Many age-related conditions develop gradually, and early changes can be difficult to notice at home.Regular checkups give your veterinarian the opportunity to monitor your cat's health over time and identify concerns before they become more advanced.<h2 dir="auto">Common Changes You May Notice</h2>Some changes in behavior and activity are expected as cats age.Your senior cat may:<ul><li>Sleep more than they did as a younger cat.</li><li>Spend less time climbing or jumping.</li><li>Play less frequently.</li><li>Become more selective about food.</li><li>Prefer quieter areas of the home.</li></ul>While these changes can be associated with aging, sudden or significant changes should always be discussed with your veterinarian.<h2 dir="auto">Health Conditions Become More Common</h2>As cats age, they become more susceptible to certain medical conditions.Some of the most common health concerns seen in senior cats include:<ul><li>Arthritis</li><li>Kidney disease</li><li>Hyperthyroidism</li><li>Diabetes</li><li>High blood pressure</li><li>Dental disease</li><li>Vision or hearing changes</li></ul>Many of these conditions develop slowly and may not cause obvious symptoms in their early stages. Routine examinations and recommended laboratory testing can help detect problems sooner, when treatment may be most effective.<h2 dir="auto">Don't Overlook Subtle Signs</h2>Cats are experts at hiding illness, making it especially important to pay attention to small changes.Contact your veterinarian if you notice your cat:<ul><li>Drinking more or less than usual.</li><li>Losing or gaining weight.</li><li>Having difficulty jumping onto furniture.</li><li>Using the litter box differently.</li><li>Grooming less or developing a messy coat.</li><li>Becoming withdrawn or unusually vocal.</li><li>Showing changes in appetite.</li></ul>Even seemingly minor changes can provide valuable clues about your cat's health.<h2 dir="auto">Nutrition Matters More Than Ever</h2>A healthy diet continues to play an important role throughout your cat's senior years.Some older cats require fewer calories because they become less active, while others may benefit from diets formulated to support kidney health, joint function, or other age-related needs.Your veterinarian can recommend nutrition based on your cat's individual health, body condition, and medical history.<h2 dir="auto">Helping Your Senior Cat Stay Comfortable</h2>Simple adjustments around the home can make daily life easier for an aging cat.Providing soft bedding, low-sided litter boxes, food and water bowls that are easy to reach, and steps or ramps to favorite resting places can help improve comfort and mobility.Continuing to offer gentle play sessions and opportunities for mental enrichment also supports overall well-being.<h2 dir="auto">Why Wellness Visits Become Even More Important</h2>While annual examinations are important throughout a cat's life, many senior cats benefit from wellness visits every six months.More frequent visits allow your veterinarian to monitor weight, evaluate mobility, assess dental health, and identify changes that may not be noticeable between yearly appointments.These visits also provide an opportunity to discuss any new behaviors, appetite changes, or mobility concerns before they progress.

Learn how cats change as they age, common senior cat health concerns, signs to watch for, and how regular veterinary care can support healthy aging.

Caring for Senior Cats: What Changes With Age?

gtm_67f011d853dc857452efe30b

Thank you for making us your preferred Buzzards Bay veterinary hospital. We look forward to seeing you and your pet soon!

We offer competitive wages and benefits packages.

buzzardsbayassociates

Please fill out the information below to get started.

Compassionate and quality care for your pets.

Served over 10,000 fur babies and their happy families.

To help us provide the best care possible, payment is required at the time of service. We accept cash and all major credit cards, and we are happy to offer a no-interest payment plan through CareCredit.

CareCredit

Trupanion Pet Insurance

ScratchPay

Mr. Dog Training

Tree Frog Farm Personalized – Dog Training and Agility

Brunswick Maine Dog Park

Great Island Kennel

Pet Sitters of Maine

The Brown Dog Inn

Camp Bow Wow

Falmouth Happy Cats

Home Again

The Blue Dog Daycare

Happy Paws Unleashed

Midcoast Humane

Passion for Pets Rescue Organization

Coastal Maine Great Dane Rescue

VeterinaryPartner.com

The Indoor Pet Initiative

Feline Fix by Five

Traveling Out of the Country with Your Pet

AAHA Pet Health Library

Pet Poison Control

Opening on Monday, January 26th, will be delayed to 12:00 PM.  (Weather permitting)

Consult Online

Online Store

Pet Portal

Forms

Download App

Additional Services

General Services

Speciality Services

Convenient online booking available at all times.

When your pet needs medication, accuracy, convenience, and trusted veterinary guidance matter. We provide prescription management and veterinary pharmacy services for dogs and cats in Buzzards Bay, MA and nearby communities, including Bourne, Wareham, Sandwich, Plymouth, and Falmouth.

Pet Prescriptions

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the most difficult moments a family can face. During this emotional time, compassionate guidance, honest communication, and supportive veterinary care can help families make thoughtful decisions focused on comfort and quality of life.

At Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates, we provide end-of-life support and quality-of-life consultations for dogs and cats in Buzzards Bay, MA, and nearby communities, including Bourne, Wareham, Sandwich, Plymouth, and Falmouth.

End-of-Life Support

Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses therapeutic light energy to help reduce pain, improve circulation, decrease inflammation, and support the body's natural healing process.

At Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates, we provide veterinary laser therapy services for dogs and cats in Buzzards Bay, MA, and nearby communities, including Bourne, Wareham, Sandwich, Plymouth, and Falmouth.

Laser Therapy

From excessive barking and destructive behavior to hiding or aggression, behavioral concerns can affect both pets and the families who care for them. At Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates, we provide pet behavior and anxiety support services for dogs and cats in Buzzards Bay, MA, and nearby communities, including Bourne, Wareham, Sandwich, Plymouth, and Falmouth.

Pet Behavior & Anxiety Support

At Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates, we provide pet nutrition and weight management support for dogs and cats in Buzzards Bay, MA, and nearby communities, including Bourne, Wareham, Sandwich, Plymouth, and Falmouth.

Pet Nutrition

At Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates, we provide comprehensive pet wellness exams for dogs and cats in Buzzards Bay, MA, and surrounding Cape Cod communities, including Bourne, Wareham, Sandwich, Plymouth, and Falmouth.

Wellness Exams

At Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates, we provide professional dental care for dogs and cats in Buzzards Bay, MA, and surrounding communities, including Bourne, Wareham, Sandwich, Plymouth, and Falmouth.

Dental Care

In Massachusetts and throughout the Cape Cod region, year-round parasite prevention is an essential part of preventive veterinary care for dogs and cats. At Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates, we provide parasite prevention services for pets in Buzzards Bay, MA, and nearby communities, including Bourne, Wareham, Sandwich, Plymouth, and Falmouth.

Parasite Prevention

At Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates, we provide personalized pet vaccination services for dogs and cats in Buzzards Bay, MA and nearby communities including Bourne, Wareham, Sandwich, Plymouth, and Falmouth.

Vaccinations

Comprehensive surgical services, from routine procedures to advanced operations, are performed with expert veterinary care designed to support your pet's health, comfort, and recovery. At Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates, we provide pet surgery services for dogs and cats in Buzzards Bay, MA and surrounding communities, including Bourne, Wareham, Sandwich, Plymouth, and Falmouth.

Pet Surgeries

At Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates, we provide diagnostic testing services for dogs and cats in Buzzards Bay, MA and nearby communities including Bourne, Wareham, Sandwich, Plymouth, and Falmouth.

Diagnostic Testing

At Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates, we provide advanced diagnostic imaging services for dogs and cats in Buzzards Bay, MA and nearby communities including Bourne, Wareham, Sandwich, Plymouth, and Falmouth.

Advanced Diagnostic Imaging

At Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates, we provide safe and simple pet microchipping services for dogs and cats in Buzzards Bay, MA and nearby communities, including Bourne, Wareham, Sandwich, Plymouth, and Falmouth.

Pet Microchipping

Dental radiology, also called dental X-rays or dental radiographs, allows veterinarians to identify hidden dental disease early before it leads to pain, infection, or tooth loss. At Buzzards Bay Veterinary Associates, we provide advanced dental radiology services for dogs and cats in Buzzards Bay, MA and nearby communities, including Bourne, Wareham, Sandwich, Plymouth, and Falmouth.

Sheet title

Caring for Senior Cats: What Changes With Age?

Recent Blogs

Related Blogs

How to Make Your Home More Cat-Friendly

How Often Should Cats See a Veterinarian? A Guide to Wellness Exams and Vaccines

Why Do Cats Purr?

FAQs

Sheet title

Caring for Senior Cats: What Changes With Age?

Recent Blogs

We Accept CareCredit: A Flexible Way to Pay for Your Pet's Care

The Ultimate Cat Owner Checklist: Everything Your Cat Needs to Thrive

How to Make Your Home More Cat-Friendly

Related Blogs

How to Make Your Home More Cat-Friendly

How Often Should Cats See a Veterinarian? A Guide to Wellness Exams and Vaccines

Why Do Cats Purr?

FAQs

How often should I bring my pet to the vet for a check-up?

Do you offer pet dental care services?

What should I do if my pet shows signs of illness?

What are the most common health issues for senior pets?

What is the best diet for my dog or cat?

How do I order my pet's prescription items online?