Learn The Tips for Caring for Your Senior Pet
Asquith Veterinary Hospital in Sydney understands how special our elderly pets are, so we offer specific help and knowledge to ensure they live comfortably, healthily and happily into their senior years. Call today to learn the important aspects of caring for a senior pet.
Recognising When Your Pet is a Senior
Most dogs and cats are considered senior from about seven years of age, although this can be earlier or later depending on breed and size. Typical signs of ageing are greying hair, reluctance to go for walks or play, tiredness, stiffness and slower climbing or jumping, as well as trouble with sleep and eating.
Health Care for Senior Pets
One of the most important senior pet care tips is ensuring that your aging pet receives regular, at least twice annually, veterinary examinations. Your veterinarian will carry out routine blood testing and diagnostic screening tests to allow for early detection of cataracts, diabetes, kidney disease, arthritis and cardiac-related conditions
Diet and Nutrition
Many older pets on a balanced, but lower-calorie, diet benefit from maintaining a suitable weight and minimising joint stress. Senior pet nutrition should include supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, or mobility support supplements may also be used.
Exercise and Mobility
Exercise for older pets should be steady but not too vigorous. Short walks with little impact and supervised play will help keep the muscle tone and joints supple. Small adaptations around the home, such as a ramp, anti-slip floors or helping up steps, can make movement a lot safer and easier.
Comfort and Home Adjustments
Comfortable, supportive bedding helps relieve pressure on joints. Feed and water should be easily accessible, and warmth is important to an arthritic pet or one with a lower body condition. Grooming, including brushing and trimming nails, also increases comfort and hygiene.
Mental Stimulation and Emotional Wellbeing
Older pets are still in need of mental stimulation and socialisation. Gentle play, established daily routines, time with owners, and known handling can assist older animals’ memory, reduce stress-related behaviours and improve emotional health.
Common Health Issues in Senior Pets
As they age, cats and dogs are more likely to develop arthritis, dental disease, loss of vision and hearing. Looking out for changes in behaviour, eating habits or mobility is important, as seeking early advice from your veterinarian through medications, diet changes and lifestyle shifts can significantly ease suffering.
End-of-Life Care
In the latter years, the priority is to ensure the pet’s remaining life is comfortable and that quality of life is maintained. Chronic diseases can be managed to minimise pain and suffering, as can a calm environment with empathy.
A Happy Senior Pet
The best thing you can give to your senior pet in these last few years of their life is regular visits to the vet, a good, healthy diet and a loving environment to live in. Health care for senior dogs and cats is essential.
To learn more about caring for aging pets, contact Asquith Veterinary Hospital.