Dogs and cats now live longer than ever before because of advancements in veterinary care, and as they get older, they need more care and attention. Remember that becoming older is not a sickness. Even though senior pets may have problems that come with getting older, you can help your pet live a happy, healthy, and active life by taking care of their physical, mental, and healthcare needs. Here are some essential health tips for senior pet care that may help ensure you keep your furry pal happy.
Increase Your Senior Pet’s Scheduled Vet Visits
Senior pets should visit their geriatric veterinary clinic at least twice every year for an in-depth physical exam to detect and address any health concerns early. Regular check-ups also allow veterinarians to spot common ailments among older animals, like arthritis, dental disease, and kidney failure, affecting these pets more than younger ones.
Support Your Senior Pet’s Diet
As pets age, their activity levels decline, which may contribute to weight gain. Being obese increases your pet’s risk for arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease – so ensure your senior pet gets adequate exercise as well as eating healthy food. Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations of an ideal diet tailored specifically to their nutritional requirements.
Monitor Dental Health
Poor dental hygiene can cause significant pain for elderly pets. You can help preserve their dental health by regularly brushing, providing dental chews/toys, and seeing your dog dentist in Middlesex about professional cleanings to remove tartar buildup or prevent gum disease.
Provide Appropriate Exercise
Regular physical activity for senior pets is crucial to their well-being and mobility, but you must tailor both intensity and duration accordingly to each pet’s specific needs. Engaging them in gentle forms such as short walks, swimming lessons, or playing fetch may keep their joints active without creating undue strain on them.
Make Adjustments for Mobility Issues
Arthritis and other mobility issues are an increasing problem among senior pets, and you can help by making adjustments around the home to provide comfortable beds that provide easy access, placing food and water bowls at appropriate heights, using ramps/steps to navigate stairs more safely or ramping stairs for them as obstacles present themselves.
Keep Your Senior Pet’s Memory Sharp
Senior pets need mental stimulation in order to avoid cognitive decline and stay sharp and alert. You can provide this stimulation via puzzle toys, training exercises, or interactive games, or spend quality time playing and cuddling them regularly to keep their minds active and stimulated.
Introduce Supplements
Certain supplements may help boost an older pet’s overall health and wellness. Omega-3 fatty acids have been known to assist with joint health by decreasing inflammation; glucosamine and chondroitin may support joint mobility while supporting overall joint health; your internal medicine veterinarian can offer recommendations as to which supplements might best fit their lifestyle and needs.
Conclusion
Senior pets require extra special care and attention to remain healthy and content throughout their golden years. Regular vet visits, healthy nutrition, appropriate exercise, and mental stimulation activities should all play an integral part in senior pet care. By following the recommendations outlined here, you can ensure your animal companion enjoys every minute of its golden years as much as possible.
