Our beloved pets provide unconditional love and companionship. As they age, special care and attention are needed to help them navigate their senior years safely and comfortably. At CityPets614, your trusted Columbus, OH veterinarian, we believe that proactive health care can make a big difference in your pet’s life. This blog discusses why proper care for your aging pets is vital to help them live their golden years to the fullest.
Wellness Exams
Regular wellness exams are important for elderly pet care. As pets age, they are more prone to heart problems, arthritis, and dental issues. Routine exams help your vet catch early signs of issues and take necessary measures before problems arise. Your vet will do blood tests, a urine test, and a fecal exam at your pet’s wellness exam, and you will be able to discuss changes in your pet’s behavior or physical appearance at this time.
Disease Prevention
While wellness exams help detect problems early, prevention is key to extending your pet’s life. Vaccinations and parasite prevention are essential for older pets. Your vet will discuss the vaccines necessary for your aging pet. Senior pets often have weakened immune systems, causing them to be more susceptible to fleas, ticks, and heartworms, so prevention is important.
Aging pets are also more susceptible to dental diseases, so routine cleanings and home dental care can help prevent painful infections. Diet and exercise appropriate for your pet’s age can help prevent obesity, diabetes, and other diseases.
Physical Aging Signs
A change in physical appearance is one of the most visible signs of aging in pets. Elderly pets may develop gray fur around the nose and mouth, and their coat may become less shiny. Weight changes often occur in senior pets due to a slowing metabolism and less activity. Hearing loss, cloudy eyes, and changes in appetite may indicate underlying health concerns.
Behavioral Aging Signs
Your pet may become less active, sleep more, or become less interested in their toys. Some pets may become anxious or irritable, while others may require comforting attention more frequently from their owners. Changes in potty habits or frequent home accidents could indicate bladder issues or the beginning of cognitive health problems.
Librela and Solensia: Treatment for Osteoarthritis (OA) Pain
The general slowdown of a pet can be a sign of arthritis discomfort, and we can help with this through FDA-approved Librela for Dogs and Solensia for Cats. These medications help control OA pain to restore your pets to their playful selves! Untreated OA will worsen over time. Both injection medications are given to your pet monthly at our clinic, so you don’t have to give a daily oral medication.
Does My Dog have Osteoarthritis?
https://www.zoetispetcare.com/checklist/osteoarthritis-checklist
Does My Cat have Osteoarthritis?
https://www.zoetispetcare.com/checklist/osteoarthritis-checklist-cat
Home Safety and Comfort
As pets age, ensuring their home environment is safe and accommodating to their growing needs is crucial. A few adjustments can contribute to their safety and comfort:
Sleep: Soft yet supportive bedding in easily accessible areas is beneficial, especially if your pet has joint pain. Pet stairs or ramps can help them reach couches or beds.
Food and Water: Food and water bowls should be placed at the appropriate height to reduce neck and back strain. Softer foods may be necessary for pets with dental issues.
Stairs and Floors Safety: Non-slip rugs can help pets move around better without slipping and injuring themselves on slick floors. A gate can prevent pets falls on the stairs.
Noisy Environment: A calm and stress-free environment is important for elderly pets. Loud noises can upset pets, especially when experiencing vision or hearing loss.
Conclusion
By staying on top of wellness exams, prioritizing disease prevention, and making home environment adjustments, your pet can enjoy their senior years with good health and comfort.
We can help our aging pets continue to live whole lives, even as they slow down with the proper precautions and necessary medications.
CityPets614 is your Full-service Veterinary Hospital, Boarding, Daycare, and Grooming in Columbus, Ohio, and Surrounding Areas
CityPets614 Animal Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, is a complete veterinary hospital and vet clinic serving your pet’s needs. CityPets614 is located in the Short North Arts District of Columbus, Ohio, just a short drive from the Grandview Yard area. It’s an excellent spot for pet lovers in the heart of the city. We also serve Victorian Village, Harrison West, Grandview Heights, and Downtown Columbus. We are located next to the Riverside Apartments.
We are here to help ensure your senior pet lives a happy and healthy life. Schedule an appointment to discuss concerns about your pet’s recent physical or behavioral changes.