As with humans, pets are experiencing longer life spans with improved and accessible health care, technological advancements and better dietary plans.
Various ailments can affect your aging animal. Common illnesses include: mobility issues - weakness of the joints and bones, diabetes, heart disease and conditions, organ disease and cancer. Some conditions cannot be cured but exams and open-conversations with your vet can inform you as to the best coping methods and comforting practices for your senior sidekick.
- Diet & Nutrition – Geriatric pets’ digestive systems can become more sensitive, so certain adjustments to dietary regimens may be recommended.
- Exams & Vaccines – Immune systems are weakened with age and pets are more susceptible to disease. Early detection is critical to ensure your elderly pet is diagnosed properly and timely.
- Environment – Lifestyle adjustments may be necessary to accommodate mobility restrictions, sleeping preferences, eating habits and loss of physical adeptness.
- Loss of Senses – Hearing and vision loss and increased sensitivities, may require special adaptations and extra care.
- Mental Health – Activity and stimulation is critical to ensure pets’ minds are kept sharp.
- Mobility – Physical activity is important in maintaining a healthy-weight, however arthritis pain can reduce mobility and inflammation reduction methods may be sought after.
- Skin, Coats, Nails and Dental – Grooming for thinning skin, dry skin, calluses, sensitive and weak nails and paw pads may be necessary. In addition, dental disease may require special attention.
- Weight – Both weight loss, due to lack of appetite, disease infection, and metabolism changes are common as well as weight gain from lack of exercise and loss of energy.