Senior Behaviour: Do Pets Get Grumpier as They Age?
May 14, 2026
We’ve all heard the phrase ‘grumpy old dog’ or ‘cranky old cat’. But unlike humans, pets don’t become irritable because of mood or personality changes. In most cases, what looks like grumpiness is actually a sign of discomfort or confusion. At Rowan Vets our team suggests that any irritability should be treated as pain until proven otherwise.
In this article, our vet Ruth explores the most common reasons for a disgruntled pet and what might be causing their mood swings. If you have any concerns, book an appointment to explore whether your pet’s behaviour change has an underlying medical cause.
Do pets get grumpier as they get older?
Pain: the most common culprit
Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the leading causes of behavioural change in older pets. Joint inflammation creates stiffness and soreness, but it also causes something called anticipatory pain—the expectation that movement or touch will hurt.
Rowan Vets’ Ruth explains that a dog who growls when asked to get up, or a cat who snaps when stroked near the hips, isn’t being moody. They’re protecting a painful area. With multi-modal pain relief combining medication, weight management, supplements and lifestyle adjustments, many pets regain comfort and confidence.
Cognitive change, not stubbornness
Another common cause is Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS), which is the pet equivalent of dementia. Pets with CDS may pace at night, vocalise, seem disoriented or stare into corners. Ruth shares that these behaviours can look like irritability but are often signs of confusion and anxiety.
Sensory loss: a shorter fuse
Hearing or vision decline can also make pets appear reactive. A startled response when touched unexpectedly may simply be due to deafness or reduced sight.
5 signs your pet isn’t ‘grumpy’ but in pain
- Stairs or Sofa Struggles: Hesitating to jump or climb often signals joint inflammation.
- Touch Sensitivity: Flinching or growling when stroked in certain areas suggests anticipatory pain.
- The “Staring” Habit: Standing in corners may indicate Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome.
- Sleep Changes: Night restlessness or frequent repositioning can reflect chronic aching.
- Aggression During Grooming: Snapping at brushes or nail clippers often means manipulation is painful.
Ruth advises that it’s important not to dismiss these behaviours as just old age. Many senior pets experience a remarkable ‘second spring’ once pain or cognitive issues are addressed. What seems like a lost personality is often a treatable medical condition, so don’t hesitate to seek advice from our team at Rowan Vets.
If your pet’s temperament has shifted, don’t assume they’ve simply become grumpy. Book a senior wellness check with our team in Preston to assess for osteoarthritis, cognitive changes, or sensory decline. It could help your pet feel comfortable, calm and happy again.
