Who doesn’t want their precious family pet to live a long, happy, and healthy life? Caring for Your Senior Pet.
As your pet increases in age, you may notice them slowing down a bit, some gray or white hair appearing on the face or signs of diminished eyesight or hearing.
All of these symptoms are typical as pets enter their senior years, but there is no definite age when a pet is considered “senior.” It varies depending on the breed and size, as well as their environment, nutrition, and genetics. This is why it’s so important to take preventative measures from a young age and be aware of changes as your pet gets older.
The best way to protect your pet’s well-being throughout his or her lifetime is to follow these basic practices:
- Feeding a balanced and nutritious diet
- Keeping teeth and gums healthy
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Getting daily exercise and playtime
- Keeping up-to-date on immunizations and free of parasites
- Schedule routine well visits with the vet to detect any health issues
Because older pets are more prone to arthritis, heart and kidney disease, or thyroid, adrenal, and insulin issues, as well as cancer, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian if you notice any of the following physical or behavioral issues:
- Changes in eating habits or increased thirst
- Changes in sleep patterns or unusual restlessness
- Decreased energy or limited agility
- Shows difficulty in grooming
- Displays confusion, unusual wandering, meowing or barking/growling
- Unexplained or sudden weight loss
Your vet can conduct an exam and order the necessary tests to determine if symptoms are a normal part of your pet’s aging or if it’s something more serious. The good news is, if diagnosed early, many health issues can be managed or slowed to add quality years to your beloved pet’s life.
As physical or sensory capabilities change or diminish, it’s important that your pet feels comfortable and safe at home and can move around easily.
This may mean a ramp or stairs for getting into the car or bed, raised food and water dishes, change in food or exercise routine, and some extra-special attention from you.
With regular exams, asking questions, and following your veterinarian’s expert direction and advice, you and your loving pet will enjoy many quality years together.
If you are looking for complete, state-of-the-art veterinary care in the Hillsborough (919) 644-7387 or Durham (919) 620-7387, NC area, contact the offices of Dr. James Miller and his professional staff to schedule an appointment or visit www.myhometownvet.com for more information.
Together we can make sure your pet lives a healthy, happy, and long life!
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