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Aging Pets Your pet
is getting older, but the care you give throughout its lifetime can
minimize and prevent disease as he or she ages. Proper care includes
periodic checkups, routine vaccinations, parasite control, dental
examinations, regular exercise, and a good diet. As pets age, two types
of changes occur: age related changes and pathological changes. Age
related changes, such as vision and hearing loss, are normal, and
develop in most animals. These changes cannot be prevented, but we can
help you and your pet to adapt to these changes. Many pathological
changes or diseases can, on the other hand, be prevented or successfully
treated. With good care to promote health and prevent disease in
geriatric pets, your pet can remain healthy and active well into its
twilight years. Your veterinarian can
help you to determine what foods, medications and procedures will
improve the length and quality of your pet’s life. Your help is needed
to carry out any treatment recommended. One of the most
important keys to helping your dog or cat live longer is meeting his or
her dietary needs. Obesity and weight loss are both common in older
animals. Kidney, liver or heart problems may change a pet’s
requirements for sodium, phosphorus, protein and fat. Changes in
activity levels and muscle mass are common in older animals, as are
changes in their ability to digest and utilize nutrients. Your
veterinarian can help you determine the type of food that’s best for
your aging pet. Because of advances in
medicine, and proper preventative care, pets, as well as people, are
living longer, healthier lives. Blood tests, EKGs, fecal exams, X-rays
and urinalysis are all performed frequently on geriatric animals. This
is because many common problems of this growing population of senior
citizen pets, such as kidney and heart disease, can be treated
successfully if diagnosed early. Regular examinations
and follow up care by your veterinarian will help insure that your pet
continues to be your loving companion in the years to come. General signs of
illness you may be able to detect at home are: Gradual
weight loss (so gradual you may not even notice at first) Dull
hair coat, disinterest in grooming Dull
eyes, sunken eyes Vomiting
and/or diarrhea (especially if chronic) Anorexia
or inapetence, getting finicky Lethargy,
sleeping more than usual Congratulations on your success at caring for your pet for all these years!
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| Office Hours (Veterinarian Available) Mon: 7:00AM - 8:00PM Tues - Thurs: 7:30AM - 8:00PM Fri: 7:00AM - 6:00PM Sat: 8:00AM - 4:00PM Sun: 9:00AM - 11:00AM (Emergency Only) |
