Dogs and cats have lived longer than ever due to advancements in veterinary medicine, and as they get older, they require more attention and care. Remember that becoming older is not a sickness. Although older pets might be suffering from issues caused by aging, you can ensure that your pet lives a full, healthy, and active life by taking charge of their physical, mental, and healthcare requirements. Here are a few essential pieces of advice on senior pet care to ensure you keep your pet healthy and happy.
Increase Your Senior Pet’s Scheduled Vet Visits
Senior pets must visit their veterinarian at least twice yearly for a thorough physical exam to catch and address any health concerns early. Regular visits also help veterinarians to detect common illnesses in older animals, like dental diseases, arthritis, and kidney problems, which affect these pets more frequently than the younger ones.
Support Your Senior Pet’s Diet
As pets age, their activity levels decrease, which could lead to weight gain. Being overweight can increase your pet’s risk for diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. Therefore, ensure that your geriatric cat and dog are exercising regularly and eating healthy food. Speak to your veterinarian for suggestions on a diet specifically designed for their nutritional needs.
Monitor Dental Health
Poor oral hygiene can cause severe pain in senior pets. You can help maintain your pet’s dental health by consistently brushing, giving them dental chews or toys, and visiting your veterinary dentist regularly for professional cleanings to remove plaque buildup and keep gum disease at bay.
Provide Appropriate Exercise
Regular exercise for senior pets is vital to their overall health and mobility, but it is essential to adjust both intensity and duration to the specific requirements of each pet. Engaging them in mild activities such as short walks swimming lessons, or playing fetch could keep their joints healthy without creating unnecessary strain.
Make Adjustments for Mobility Issues
Mobility issues and arthritis are becoming more common among seniors pets, and you can assist by making changes within your home to offer comfy beds that allow easy access. Place the water and food bowls at a suitable height, and utilize ramps or steps that would enable your senior pet to climb stairs safely when obstacles arise.
Keep Your Senior Pet’s Memory Sharp
Senior pets require stimulation for their minds to avoid mental decline and remain active. You can provide this stimulation via puzzle toys, training exercises, or interactive games, or spend quality time playing and cuddling them often so that their brains stay engaged.
Introduce Supplements
Certain supplements can help improve an older pet’s overall health and well-being. Omega-3 fatty acids are identified to help joint problems and reduce inflammation. Glucosamine, as well as chondroitin, can help improve joint mobility and aid joint health in general. Consulting vets from animal facilities like Bound Brook Veterinary Clinic can recommend which supplements might best fit their lifestyle and needs.
Conclusion
Senior pets require extra care to stay healthy and content through their golden years. Regular vet visits, healthy eating habits, appropriate exercise, as well as mental stimulation activities should all take a significant role in senior pet treatment. By following the tips given here, you can ensure that your pet companion gets the most enjoyment out of their life as long as possible.
