For some cases of senility there can be drug therapy
that will help with concious awareness.
Approved for dogs, selegiline is given once daily
to improve mental status. Owners can sometimes see improvement in
housebreaking habits, play activity and overall awareness.
There is no drug therapy at this time for cats.
Regular exercise should be a part of all elderly animals with the kind and duration tailored to the pet's abilities. In other words, don't have your dog be a "weekend warrior" since it can actually do more harm than good to have your dog be inactive all week then go for long walks and potentially pull muscles, injure joints, etc. If your pet suffers from arthritis of the hips, walking is good exercise and walking up hill can be beneficial as it helps to keep the large thigh muscles in tone. Running and jumping are not recommended.
For cats, playing with cat toys and lots of petting and massage can help circulation of blood throughout the body and therefore the brain.
Good grooming is necessary in the elderly pet as they cannot care for themselves as readily. This may mean more frequent baths for the pet that suffers from incontinence. For cats it is important to brush or comb them. Many elderly cats, especially those that suffer from renal or kidney insufficiency, often do not groom themselves and need assistance to keep their fur clean and soft.