Why Is Senior Pet Care Important?
As pets age, they become more susceptible to health issues such as arthritis, dental disease, and cancer. Regular check-ups and preventative care can help catch these issues early on and provide the necessary treatment to improve your pet's quality of life. Senior pet care also includes monitoring your pet's diet and exercise to ensure they are getting the proper nutrition and staying active. Additionally, senior pets may require more frequent visits to the veterinarian to manage any chronic conditions they may have.
When Is A Dog Or Cat Considered A Senior?
The age at which a dog or cat is considered a senior can vary depending on their breed and size. Generally, dogs and cats are considered seniors when they reach 7-8 years of age. However, larger breeds tend to age faster and may be considered seniors at 5-6 years old. It's important to consult with our veterinary team to determine when your pet should start receiving senior pet care.
Signs & Symptoms Of Aging Pets
It's essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms of aging in pets so that you can provide the necessary care and support. Some common signs of aging in pets include:
- Decreased activity and energy levels
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Difficulty getting up or walking
- Changes in behavior or temperament
- Increased thirst and urination
- Changes in vision or hearing
- Dental issues
- Skin and coat changes
- Lumps or bumps on the body
If you notice any of these signs in your pet, it's important to schedule a visit with our veterinary team to address any potential health concerns.
Caring For Your Senior Pet
- Checkups - Regular checkups are crucial for senior pets as they allow our veterinarians to monitor their overall health and catch any potential issues early on. During a checkup, our vets will perform a physical exam, check vital signs, and ask about any changes in behavior or appetite. They may also recommend additional tests or screenings based on the pet's age and breed.
- Bloodwork – Bloodwork is an essential part of senior pet care as it can detect underlying health issues that may not be apparent during a physical exam. It can also help monitor chronic conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease. Our vets will take a small blood sample and run various tests to check for organ function, blood cell counts, and other important markers.
- X-rays - X-rays are commonly used in senior pet care to diagnose and monitor conditions such as arthritis, tumors, and heart disease. They provide a detailed image of the pet's bones and internal organs, allowing our vets to identify any abnormalities or changes. X-rays are non-invasive and typically do not require sedation, making them a safe and effective tool for senior pet care.
- Urinalysis - Urinalysis is a simple test that can provide valuable information about a senior pet's health. It involves collecting a urine sample and analyzing it for the presence of bacteria, blood, or other abnormalities. Urinalysis can help detect urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and other conditions that are common in senior pets.
- Changes in behavior - As pets age, they may experience changes in behavior that can be indicative of underlying health issues. These changes can include increased or decreased appetite, lethargy, changes in sleep patterns, and changes in bathroom habits. It is essential to monitor these changes and report them to our veterinary team during checkups, as they can help identify potential health issues early on.
- Pain management - As pets age, they may develop conditions such as arthritis or dental disease that can cause pain and discomfort. It is crucial to manage this pain to ensure the pet's quality of life. Our veterinary team may prescribe pain medication or recommend alternative therapies such as laser therapy or physical therapy to help alleviate pain and improve mobility.
Tips For Keeping Your Senior Pet Comfortable At Home
- Create a Comfortable Living Space - As pets age, they may have a harder time getting around and may need a more comfortable living space. Consider providing your senior pet with a soft, orthopedic bed to help ease joint pain. You can also add ramps or stairs to help them access their favorite spots, such as the couch or bed. It's also important to keep your home at a comfortable temperature for your senior pet. As they age, they may have a harder time regulating their body temperature, so it's important to keep them warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
- Provide Easy Access to Food and Water - Senior pets may have a harder time reaching their food and water bowls, especially if they have joint pain or mobility issues. Consider elevating their bowls or using a raised feeder to make it easier for them to eat and drink. You may also want to consider switching to softer food for your senior pet. This can help with digestion and make it easier for them to eat if they have dental issues.
- Keep Up with Grooming - As pets age, they may have a harder time grooming themselves. It's important to keep up with regular grooming to prevent matting, skin issues, and other problems. This can also be a great bonding experience for you and your senior pet. If your senior pet has mobility issues, consider using a grooming service that specializes in senior pets. They can provide gentle and thorough grooming without causing any discomfort.
- Consider Supplements and Medications - Our veterinarians may recommend specific supplements or medications for your senior pet. These can help with joint pain, digestion, and other age-related issues. It's important to follow our veterinarian’s recommendations and administer these supplements or medications as directed.
- Provide Plenty of Love and Attention - As pets age, they may become more dependent on their owners for love and attention. Make sure to spend quality time with your senior pet, whether it's cuddling on the couch or going for a short walk. This can help keep them mentally and emotionally stimulated, which can improve their overall well-being.
- Be Mindful of Changes in Behavior - As your pet ages, you may notice changes in their behavior. They may become more irritable, have accidents in the house, or become less active. These changes could be a sign of an underlying health issue, so it's important to monitor your pet's behavior and consult with our veterinary team if you notice any significant changes.
