Since the day you brought your puppy or kitten home, their health, happiness, and quality of life have remained a leading priority to you. Now, as they embark into their golden years, adjusting their care to accommodate their new changes is a concern. Fortunately, we’re here to guide you. November is Senior Pet Month, and to celebrate, we’re here to help you become the best senior pet owner you can be.
Understanding Senior Pet Needs
Before diving into the specifics of what senior pet care entails, it’s important to understand what age is considered senior. A senior cat is any cat between the ages of eight and ten. For dogs, small breeds are considered seniors at the age of eight, whereas larger breeds become seniors at around six years old.
Although age is not a direct indication that your pet has new-found health concerns, various illnesses are more common in aging pets. Senior pets are prone to developing chronic conditions, such as arthritis, certain types of cancers, and various organ diseases. Some of these conditions can be quickly treated, while others call for long-term management and consistent veterinary care.
How to Support Your Senior Dog
To ensure your senior dog is well cared for, happy, and thriving during their golden years, prioritizing their comfort, veterinary care, and diet are essential. Some of the ways we recommend enhancing your senior dog’s life include:
- Modify your dog’s home environment to eliminate slick walking surfaces, facilitate mobility needs with ramps or small steps, and create a more accessible space for them to live.
- Prioritize their comfort with cozy and accessible lounge areas and orthopedic bedding to support their joints and muscles.
- Monitor their grooming needs, trim their nails frequently, and observe them for any sores or physical abnormalities.
- Ensure your dog has a low-calorie, nutrient-packed diet.
- Schedule routine veterinary check-ups semi-annually.
How to Support Your Senior Cat
Senior cats are often better at masking the signs of aging. However, there are still modifications you can make to ensure they remain comfortable, happy, and in optimal health, including:
- Replace their litter box with a wide, shallow box that facilitates accessibility.
- Place ramps for them to access their favorite shelves, perches, or high surfaces without risking accidents.
- Brush your cat daily to deter matted hair and poor hygiene.
- Trim your cat’s toenails frequently.
- Schedule routine veterinary check-ups.
For more tips on how to care for your aging companion, contact your local veterinarian today.
