Caring for Senior Pets: Tips to Keep Them Healthy and Happy
Hello, friends and blog readers! It is September and we have already being seeing Halloween related things at stores for a few weeks! Time flies and it feels even quicker for our furry companions. We all want to believe that our pets will live forever and in perfect shape, but unfortunately, they physically leave us too soon! With that in mind, I wanted to share some tips on keeping our senior pets happy, healthy, and comfortable as they mature.
Pets age in their own way, and a dog or cat might be considered a senior around 6 or 7 years old, depending on their size. Smaller dogs usually live longer than larger ones, so a chihuahua could easily outlive a Great Dane. Of course, this isn’t a strict rule, as I have seen plenty of big pups have amazing and long lives. The key is making sure we give them the best care every day so that we can keep them around for as long as possible in a responsible way.
Keeping your senior kiddo healthy is a lot like taking care of ourselves. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are huge factors in their daily routine. If your more mature pets tire easily, try shorter, more frequent activity sessions. A diet suited to their age is also essential and in theory, if it is a well balanced diet, vitamin and mineral supplements should not be needed. That being said, every pet has unique nutritional and exercise needs, so talking with us is the best way to create a personalized plan.
Arthritis is very common in older dogs and cats, and it can affect how they move and play. Just like humans, keeping them at a healthy weight helps reduce stress on their joints. Orthopedic beds can be beneficial, and adding rugs or runners around the house gives them better traction. Slippery floors are horrible for older pets, especially larger dogs, because falls can lead to serious injuries.
Joint supplements can help, but always check with us to find the right one for your pet. In some cases, prescription medications may be needed to improve comfort. For those looking for alternative options, chiropractic care, acupuncture, cold laser therapy, and special injections can make a big difference in mobility and overall well-being. As a veterinary hospital, we can guide you on the best combination for your pet.
Beyond arthritis, senior pets may face dental problems, liver or kidney disease, skin issues, thyroid problems, and even cancer. Keep an eye out for changes in behavior, appetite, drinking habits, urination, and defecation. Monthly head-to-tail checks for lumps or bumps are a good habit and when you feel for lumps or bumps, make sure you are very thorough. If you notice anything unusual, contact us right away! Early detection can make a difference in treatment and quality of life.
I recommend scheduling a consultation and thorough physical exam for your kiddo at least every six months for senior pets, along with lab work like blood work, urinalysis, and fecal analysis. Depending on your pet’s needs, we might also suggest chest or belly radiographs. Every pet is unique, so treatment plans should be tailored to their specific situation and your goals as a pet parent.
Watching our pets age can be bittersweet, but staying informed and proactive helps them live longer, healthier lives. I hope these tips give you some tools to support your furry family members during this important stage. Thank you all for reading this month’s blog! Abrazos!!