Pet Care
Aging Is More Than Just a Few Gray Hairs
With advances in veterinary medicine, better diets and regular visits to the veterinarian, our pets are living longer than ever before. The age at which your pet becomes a senior will vary. Larger dogs are considered seniors as early as 6 years of age. Smaller dogs and cats are considered seniors at 7-9 years of age. An elderly pet ages at least 4 human years every 12 months. Therefore, age related illnesses progress much faster than it does in humans.
As they get older, the organs and immune systems become less efficient and they become susceptible to disease. They face many of the the same health problems that humans develop such as arthritis, diabetes, heart and lung problems, kidney and liver disease, and more. Behavior changes are to be expected as you may notice a decrease in activity level, less interaction with the family, confusion or disorientation, or changes in sleep pattern or house training. Many of these can be prevented, therefore enhancing your pet’s quality of life.
Some aging changes are difficult to detect, especially in cats. Monitor your pet’s condition and behavior and take a preventative approach to senior health care.
There are several things you can do to help your senior pet. Make regular visits to your veterinarian. All pets should be examined twice a year. Bring any changes to your veterinarian’s attention. Be sure to have your pet on an appropriate diet for his age and activity level. Avoid feeding snack and table scraps to help control his weight. Easy access to food and water is important to an older pet. Allow moderate exercise; not enough for the pet to overexert himself. Avoid extreme heat or cold in the environment. Stress should be prevented when possible. Keep the daily routine consistent. Keep the coat healthy and provide relaxation by helping your pet with grooming. Be patient and provide extra emotional support for the older pet.
Your veterinarian can help you make your senior pet comfortable. He or she can provide proper feeding, medicating, and exercising techniques. Frequent examinations and laboratory testing is order as well. Dental health examinations and cleanings will be done. He or she will be available to assist you with health care decisions for your aging pet.
Our pets are members of our family and given the attention, care and nutrition they need, we can help them increase the length and quality of their lives.
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