Senior Care for Pets

Pets age really quickly and most are considered seniors anywhere from 7 to 10-years-old. When your pet enters senior status, it is a new and unique journey. Senior pets have enjoyed long lives and shared many memorable moments with their guardians. Becoming a senior may present different challenges for your pet, but it can still be a comfortable stage with the right care. We recommend that senior pets have a veterinary exam every 6 months to monitor their health and adjust their healthcare plan as needed.

What physical changes happen as my pet gets older?

You should monitor your senior pet for the following signs of aging:

●    Grey hairs
●    Weight loss
●    Changes in their eating or drinking habits
●    Less interest in activities they once loved
●    Hearing loss
●    Vision problems
●    Thinning hair or coat
●    Matting on your cat’s back and hard-to-reach areas

Please schedule a consultation for your pet at 289-278-6001 if you notice these changes.

What common health problems do senior pets have?

Along with the physical changes, most pets will have changes in their health. Your pet’s organs and systems are all affected by aging. This is why it’s important to consult a veterinarian for regular checkups to catch health problems. Senior pets often suffer from:

1.    Cognitive dysfunction (dementia)
2.    Arthritis
3.    Obesity
4.    Cancer
5.    Heart problems
6.    Kidney and liver disease

How can I keep my senior pet active?

Senior pets often have less energy to continue their active lifestyle, but some exercise is necessary to keep them healthy. We usually recommend low-intensity activities for senior pets like swimming, short walks, indoor games with a laser, or gentle play. These exercises are much easier on their joints and can help them with weight management.