Understanding the Needs of Senior Pets
There are many factors, such as breed, weight and lifestyle, that influence the aging process of pets. Some pets are viewed as seniors around age 6, but many pets don’t arrive in the golden years until much later. In any case, one fact remains: pets age faster than humans. Routine wellness exams (scheduled twice a year for senior pets) can prevent, catch, and treat various age-related conditions. Additionally, understanding the changing needs of senior pets is critical at home.
Similar, Yet Different
Remember when your pet was a puppy or a kitten? It was probably hard to fathom then what they might look like later in life, of how they might behave. It’s interesting now to reflect on how they used to play or the ways they’ve changed over the years.
As pets age, their care must change. In addition to mobility challenges, senior pets can have poor vision and/or hearing, incontinence, and other issues they’ve never experienced.
The More, the Better
The ability to recognize even subtle shifts in behavior and appearance can go a long way toward supporting the aging process. Some age-related conditions present few, if any, clinical symptoms at first. Maintaining a schedule of twice yearly wellness exams can clue us into what’s happening beneath the surface. Early detection can lead to effective treatment and a positive prognosis.
Let’s Talk Diet
Senior pets do not have the same nutritional needs as younger animals. As such, it is essential to find the right balance for the body’s changing systems. Common health conditions facing senior pets include:
- Diabetes
- Arthritis
- Cancer
- Kidney disease
- Hearing and vision loss
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Heart disease
- Liver disease
If senior pets are exercising less, they should have smaller portion sizes to prevent weight gain and obesity (weight can have a profound influence on many of the above diseases).
Also, dental issues may result in finding food that is softer and easier to chew. We can help you find the right food products that are appetizing to picky senior pets.
When It Hurts to Move
Senior pets may spend less time running around and more time sleeping. While normal, it’s vital not to give into lethargy. Not only will daily exercise keep the pounds off, but can actually reduce painful symptoms of arthritis. Plus, walks and daily play time keeps their mind busy and active.
Please let us know if your senior pet is in pain. We can help!
Cleaning Up
Senior pets may start to groom themselves less often, sometimes because they can’t bend and stretch the way they used to. Aging pets can develop flaky, itchy skin, lumps and bumps, and other abnormalities. Most of the time, these issues can be quickly resolved. With daily grooming, you can stay in front of any possible issues. Plus, it makes them feel really good!
Senior Pet Health
Many pets can live well into their second decade without much trouble, and we are here to support their health and happiness. Please call our team at (916) 349-2755 with any questions or concerns. Cherry Creek Veterinary Hospital is always here to assist you.