Is your canine companion in their golden years? Pets somehow seem to become cuter as they get older. Many dogs and cats become really sweet in their golden years and simply want to be held, petted, and loved on. They also have a really sweet disposition and prefer to nap and snuggle with their humans. Of course, pets, like humans, require slightly different care as they age. Continue reading to hear some advice from a local Jensen Beach, FL veterinarian about elderly pet care.

Do Breed-Specific Research

Some medical issues are simply frequent among our canine companions in general. These include things like hip dysplasia and arthritis, as well as eyesight and hearing loss. 

Your pet’s breed is also a factor to consider. Do some study to determine whether your four-legged friend is at a higher risk of having any certain condition. And, while breed is more important in dogs than in cats, it can and does play a part in kitties’ physiology. If your dog or cat is a mix, which many are, you might consider getting a DNA test.

Monitor Your Food And Water Intake

Many of the health issues that we commonly encounter in older pets can have an impact on Fido and Fluffy’s appetite, food and water consumption, urine output, and weight. These are definitely not the only things to look out for, but they are often the first things people notice. Monitor your pet’s weight and body condition closely, and keep an eye on what they eat and drink. You should also keep a lookout for signs of lethargy, respiratory difficulties, and lameness.

Help Them Stay Active

Many older animals are very sleepy. Fido and Fluffy spent a lot of time running and playing when they were younger! However, they must maintain their fitness and activity levels. Daily walks are the most common form of exercise for dogs. Some dogs will enjoy and benefit from swimming, though this is not a universal recommendation. 

Of course, playing is the gold standard here for both cats and dogs. Our canine and feline companions are both incredibly playful, which is why they are so entertaining. As Fido and Fluffy get older, they’ll still have those playful moments, and they’ll continue to enjoy and profit from expressing their (respective) inner puppy and kitten. However, you will need to consider your four-legged friend’s age during playtime and make a few adjustments.

Here are some suggestions for playing with your lovely, cuddly retiree.

• Don’t Go Overboard: Older pets might become tired rapidly. They lack the vigor and stamina that younger animals possess. Take care not to let your pet overexert itself. If you feel any signs of exhaustion, call it quits. (This mostly applies to dogs. If your kitty gets tired, she’ll just quit playing, and will most likely walk away in search of her next napping spot.)
• Don’t Underdo It: While you don’t want to push a senior pet too hard, you also don’t want to deny them playtime. Physical activity and cerebral stimulation both benefit them greatly! Fido and Fluffy may pass out after only a few minutes, but that’s okay. Even a few minutes every day can be useful.
• Provide Mental Stimulation: Senior pets do not require as much physical activity as younger ones, but they will never lose the desire for mental stimulation. Scavenger hunts, trick training, and puzzle toys are all options for mentally stimulating activities for your pet.
• Make Sure The Play Area Is Safe: Always provide a safe environment for your four-legged pal to play. Avoid areas with slick surfaces, steeply slanted hills, or ramps. It’s also important to avoid spots with pools, stairs, and fireplaces.
• Always Choose Appropriate Toys: Older pets may have different playtime preferences than their younger counterparts. You may want to choose toys with vibrant colors. If Fido or Fluffy has difficulty seeing or hearing, look for toys that light up or create noise. Change these out on a regular basis to keep things interesting.
• Get Customized Professional Advice: Senior pets are more vulnerable to injuries, slips, and falls than younger animals. They should also not be urged to do specific things. For example, an elderly dog with hip dysplasia should not be encouraged to jump or stand, and a senior cat should not be expected to jump high or long. Every pet is different, and the ideal workout regime will change over time. Consult your veterinarian for detailed advice on this.
• Have Fun! Our animal pals never stop being adorable. In fact, many senior pets mysteriously grow even cuter. Enjoy these nice and charming moments with your pet companion! We spend far too little time with our pets.

Keep Up with Veterinary Care

Because older animals are more likely to suffer a variety of health issues, it is critical to evaluate their well-being regularly. Fido and Fluffy will benefit from more frequent visits. This is especially true for pets with established medical problems. Follow your veterinarian’s recommended appointment schedule.

You should also keep an eye out for any signs of disease at home. Some of these would include the following:

• Vomiting
• Swelling
• Poor Appetite
• Less Urination
• Lethargy
• Bad Breath
• Cough
• Incontinence
• Disorientation
• Hearing And/Or Vision Loss
• Losing Weight
• Obesity
• Aggression
• Difficulty Sitting Or Standing
• Increased Thirst
• Abdominal Swelling
• Anxiety
• Increased/Decreased Appetite
• Lameness
• Respiratory Problems
• Changed Sleep Patterns
• Arthritis

If you detect any of those warning signs, contact your Jensen Beach, FL veterinarian right away. Many concerns can be addressed, but it is always more effective to do so early on.

Focus On Comfort

As your pet gets older, you’ll want to shift your focus from keeping them entertained to keeping them comfortable. Small things, such as comfortable beds and night lighting, can make a big difference here. The exact steps you need to follow may differ based on the specific conditions your pet is experiencing. For example, if Fido can’t see properly, you may need to lay out carpet runners to assist him navigate. A water fountain would also be useful, as would odor-eating stick-ups. If your pet cannot hear, you may need to train him to respond to a laser pointer or lamp. Make sure to ask your Jensen Beach, FL veterinarian for particular recommendations.

Finally, make sure your aging pet feels loved, safe, and comfortable. Spend some additional quality time with your elderly dog and allow your cat to snuggle up on your lap. After a lifetime of love, laughter, and companionship, your pet requires you now more than ever. You may discover that this special stage in your pet’s life passes far too soon, so enjoy it while you can.

Conclusion: As your pet grows older, their demands will shift slightly. You should seek particular guidance from your veterinarian on their food and care requirements. Aside from that, you’ll want to focus on keeping your pet comfortable rather than keeping them out of trouble.

Book An Appointment At Our Jensen Beach, FL Pet Clinic

Do you have any questions or concerns about your senior pet’s health or care? Contact your Jensen Beach, FL pet hospital today! We are dedicated to giving excellent veterinary care, and are always happy to help~