By Courtney Prue | July 23, 2025

Adopting Senior Pets: Why Older Pets Make Wonderful Companions

When it comes to adopting a pet, something to consider is whether you choose a young pet or an elderly one. While many people are enamoured with the cuteness of youthful pets, there is a clear need for senior pets to also find loving homes so that they can enjoy affection and comfort in their final years. While older pets may have unique needs, in some ways they can be far less challenging than young pets. In this article we’ll look at the advantages that you experience when you adopt senior pets.

The Advantages of Adopting Senior Pets

Let’s look at some of the reasons why adopting a senior pet might be the right choice for you.

They are trained

A senior dog is likely to have been trained to do the behavioural basics, whereas with a young and excited puppy, you have to start from scratch. You may need to take a young dog to puppy school, as well as put in a concerted effort to get them to walk on a leash, stop at the curb, sit when told, not jump up on people, and so on. If you prefer an easier ride, adopting a trained senior dog that is the ideal option.

Obviously, when we talk about training, we’re mainly talking about dogs. Cats won’t have attended kitten school, however an older domesticated cat who has lived with owners previously will likely already understand how to use the kitty litter and cat flap, etc.

They are less destructive

Young animals are untrained, and don’t know how to behave inside the home. Their instincts might invite them to scratch furniture, chew up shoes, go to the bathroom on the carpet, and so on.

With a senior pet, it’s more likely that they will be house trained, and won’t be nearly as destructive.

They’re more predictable

In general, older pets have settled into their ways. They enjoy predictability like meals and naps at routine times, and if you can stick to a schedule, they’ll be pretty content. 

If you’re adopting a senior dog, it will likely be happy to walk a predictable trail, and won’t pull the lead to explore. If you adopt a senior cat, it’s less likely to escape the home or go off wandering for days, stressing you out (although there are certainly cats who will!). But in general, senior pets are more likely to be content sitting on your lap or at your feet, and less likely to spring surprises on you.

You know what you’re getting

A senior pet has already developed to its full size. This means, you don’t have to worry about a tiny puppy turning into a mammoth-sized dog, or finding out that the teeny kitten you bought is actually a Maine Coon with an appetite to match! 

It’s not just their size that will be evident. Their temperament will already be well established, so as long as you can find out some information from a previous owner or pet adoption centre, you’ll have a pretty good idea of what the animal’s personality will be like, and if it’s a match for you and your home.

Health issues are often established

When you consider adopting a senior pet, you may be able to find out information about their health history from their existing vet, previous owners, or adoption centre. You can find out upfront if there are any special health conditions they have, and if they require medication. Oftentimes, health issues have already arisen, so you’re not getting any big surprises. 

In some cases, a previous owner or adoption centre will assist with subsidising medications and ointments.

They may better match your energy

Let’s face it, sometimes we don’t have the energy to be dragged down the street by a puppy, or deal with a spirited kitten jumping from the fridge onto our shoulder when we least expect it. We might want a pet who is a little chill, and in step with our relaxed vibe. 

So if you are someone who likes to just relax and not have to keep up with an ultra-perky animal, then adopt a senior pet. They will enjoy naps as much as you do, won’t demand as many energetic walks, and likely won’t get into so many scrambles with other pets as the young ones might. It will likely just be a little more relaxed.

They’re Loving and Grateful

Senior animals seem to appreciate that they’ve been given a second chance. Moving on from a previous owner, for whatever reason, may have been unsettling for them, so having a new owner take them on and provide them with love and support will create an immediate bond. They will likely pay you back with plenty of love.

You’re offering them salvation

Senior pets are less popular at adoption centres than younger ones. This means that when you adopt an older pet, you know you are genuinely offering them a lifeline. They may not be able to continue living without your support, and your adoption and subsequent care gives them the opportunity to enjoy their golden years with a loving owner.

What to Consider When Adopting a Senior Pet

Whilst there are obvious benefits to adopting an older pet, there are some things to consider before you make the commitment.

1. A Shorter Time Together
   It is a given that our pets will one day pass away, but when we adopt a kitten or puppy, their passing is a long way off. Are you prepared to get to know and love a pet you know you will need to say goodbye to sooner? If not, you might need to consider adopting a younger pet.
2. Potential Medical Needs
   A senior pet may require extra regular vet visits, a special diet, medications and ointments. You really need to be able to cover these costs so that you can ensure your pet is comfortable in their final years.
3. Mobility or Sensory Issues
   If a senior pet has arthritis, vision, or hearing loss, then you need to consider making adjustments in your home to ensure they are safe and comfortable. Are you prepared to change things up?
4. Adapting to a New Routine
   While many senior pets are adaptable, some might take time to adjust to a new home after years in a different environment. It may take time for them to warm to you, and to become relaxed in a new home. Are you patient?
5. Insurance Costs
   Pet insurance is generally considered a wise investment for pet owners, however it may be difficult to obtain, and more expensive if your pet is already senior. Research whether or not you can get coverage, and how much it would cost, before making the commitment to a senior pet.
6. The Cost of Euthanasia
   When your senior pet is close to the end of its life, or it has a health condition that is causing it to suffer, you may wish to choose to end its life peacefully, either at a vet clinic or at home using an in-home pet euthanasia service. In either case, there will be costs involved, so factor these in too.

Why you should consider adopting a senior pet

Choosing to adopt a senior pet is an act of compassion and kindness. While it comes with unique considerations, those who adopt senior pets find that the rewards are immense. Senior pets offer loyalty, calm companionship, and endless gratitude. By opening your heart and home to an older animal, you’re giving them the gift of comfort and love when they need it most — and gaining a devoted friend in return.