Senior pets make loyal and loving companions but need extra care and attention to keep them healthy, happy and active. This is why the most important thing you can do for your aging dog or cat is to be aware of its changing needs. These needs include regular veterinary care, an appropriate diet and tailored lifestyle modifications
Regular Medical Care
Like older people, older pets are more likely to develop health problems than younger ones. Many of these issues, including diabetes, thyroid disease, other metabolic diseases, certain types of cancer and others, are treatable if caught early. The best way to catch medical issues before they become life-threatening emergencies is to have your pet examined by a veterinarian at least every six to 12 months. A wellness visit for a senior pet should include a physical examination, a discussion of the pet’s history and lifestyle and any testing, including blood work, that your veterinarian deems necessary.
You should also consult a veterinarian if you suspect your senior pet has a health problem. Signs to watch for include the following:
Signs to watch for
- Increased thirst.
- Change in appetite.
- Behavior change.
- Increased urination.
- Vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Any new lump or bump.
- Coughing.
- Change in activity level.
- Breathing issues.
- Vision problems.
- Increased vocalization.
- Difficulty chewing.
- Any sign of pain.
Unfortunately, many people are reluctant to take their senior pets to the veterinarian when they suspect a problem because they do not want to put their pets through unnecessary testing and treatments. The reality is that prompt veterinary care prevents suffering rather than causing it. Veterinarians provide a full spectrum of treatments, including hospice care, to help pets remain comfortable and happy in their later years.
Proper Nutrition
Proper Nutrition Senior pets have special nutritional needs. As your dog or cat ages, its metabolism slows down, and its activity level drops. This means the animal requires fewer calories to maintain its weight. Feeding too many calories leads to obesity, so choosing a high-quality senior diet for your pet is important.
Senior pets also frequently suffer from medical conditions, like arthritis, kidney disease, dental disease and others that require dietary modifications. Your veterinarian can help you choose a diet that will keep your senior pet healthy and happy.
Lifestyle Modifications
Older dogs and cats slow down. They often have trouble running fast or jumping onto furniture. They also tend to become more sensitive to temperature and may develop problems like hearing loss or cataracts, which present new life challenges. To help keep your senior pet comfortable, consider modifying the animal’s routine and living space to suit its changing needs.
Consider the following suggestions when designing a plan to improve your pet’s quality of life as it ages:
- Provide steps or stools to allow pets to reach litter boxes with high entrances or favoured pieces of furniture.
- Place the pet’s food, bed and litter box all on one floor to eliminate or minimize the need for the dog or cat to climb stairs.
- Choose easier paths when walking your senior dog, and adjust the pace to avoid overtaxing the pet.
- Keep your pet in warm areas of the home, and provide a cozy blanket when temperatures drop.
- Do not place cat food on high surfaces that require the cat to jump to reach them.
- Avoid moving furniture around or placing obstacles in the pet’s normal path if your dog or cat has vision problems.
- Never approach a pet with hearing problems from behind. Make sure the dog or cat sees you before you touch it.
By making just a few simple changes, you can greatly improve your senior pet’s quality of life. Contact us today to talk about your unique pet’s needs.
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