As our beloved pets age, their needs change and they require more specialized care. Just like humans, senior pets need extra attention and care to ensure they live a happy and healthy life, and our Boca Raton animal hospital team is here to help!
When Is My Dog Or Cat Considered A Senior?
The age at which a pet is considered a senior varies depending on their breed and size. Generally, dogs and cats are considered seniors when they reach 7 years of age. However, larger breeds tend to age faster and may be considered seniors at 5-6 years old. It is important to consult with our team to determine when your specific pet should be considered a senior.
Why Is Senior Pet Care Important?
Senior pets have different needs than younger pets and require more specialized care. As they age, they may develop health issues such as arthritis, dental problems, and vision or hearing loss. Regular check-ups and preventative care can help catch these issues early and improve your pet's quality of life. Additionally, senior pets may require changes in their diet and exercise routine to a healthy weight and prevent obesity-related health problems.
Signs Of Aging in Pets
As your pet ages, you may notice changes in their behavior and appearance. Some common signs of aging in pets include:
- Gray hair or fur
- Decreased energy and activity levels
- Difficulty getting up or moving around
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Increased thirst and urination
- Changes in vision or hearing
- Bad breath or dental problems
If you notice any of these signs in your pet, it is important to consult with our team for proper care and treatment.
What To Expect With Senior Pet Care
Senior pet care may include regular check-ups, bloodwork, and preventative care such as vaccinations and parasite control. Our team may also recommend a specialized diet and exercise plan for your senior pet. It is important to follow your veterinarian's recommendations and schedule regular check-ups to ensure your pet's health and well-being.
Bloodwork: Bloodwork is an important part of your pet's health care. It can give us information about your pet's overall health, including their kidney and liver function, their hydration levels, and whether they have any infections. Bloodwork can also help us diagnose some diseases, like diabetes before they cause any symptoms. For senior pets, we may recommend more frequent panels to keep a close eye on their health.
Urinalysis: A urinalysis is an important diagnostic tool that can provide valuable information about your pet's health. A urine sample can be used to assess kidney and liver function, detect urinary tract infections, and even diagnose diabetes.
Arthritis In Senior Pets
Arthritis is a common health issue in senior pets and can cause pain and discomfort. Signs of arthritis in pets include difficulty moving, stiffness, and reluctance to exercise. If you notice these signs in your pet, it is important to consult with our team for proper treatment.
Therapies For Senior Pet Pain Management
There are various therapies available to help manage pain work in senior pets, including:
- Medications: We may prescribe pain medication to help manage your pet's arthritis or other health issues.
- Supplements: Supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin can help improve joint health and reduce pain in senior pets.
- Acupuncture: This alternative therapy can help relieve pain and improve mobility in senior pets.
- Physical therapy: Just like humans, pets can benefit from physical therapy to improve mobility and manage pain.
- Solensia: Is a monthly injection administered at our office that can help control osteoarthritis pain in cats.
- Librela: Is a monthly injection administered at our office that can help control osteoarthritis pain in dogs.
Tips For Caring for Your Senior Pet
Here are a few things you can do at home to help care for your senior pet:
- Keep them active. Regular exercise is important for senior pets, as it can help to reduce the risk of obesity, arthritis, and other health problems.
- Feed them a healthy diet. A balanced diet rich in nutrients will help your pet maintain their health as they age.
- Keep their vaccinations up to date. Vaccinations help protect your pet from serious diseases, and some are especially important for older pets.
- Monitor their weight. Keeping an eye on your pet's weight is important, as seniors are more prone to obesity-related health problems such as diabetes and joint problems.