
As your pet’s whiskers begin displaying signs of age, and their fur transforms into a shining silver, it’s time to consider what aging truly means for your pet. November is Senior Pet Month! As such, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore senior pet care needs, and how you can enhance your pet ownership practice to ensure your four-legged companion remains happy, healthy, and thriving well into their golden years.
Senior Pet Health
While it’s possible to have a completely healthy senior pet, it’s important to recognize that with age comes changes to your pet’s health and veterinary needs. Senior pets are at a higher risk for cancer, arthritis, cognitive dysfunction, and many other medical concerns. As such, diligent veterinary care is the most effective way to honor your pet and preserve their health. By scheduling regular veterinary check-ups, you can monitor your pet’s evolving health needs, keep up with vaccinations, and learn tools and tricks to enhance your pet’s well-being.
Mobility and Accessibility
Just like their owners, pets will begin experiencing mobility and accessibility obstacles as they age. Your once active dog may become far more stationary, and your cat may not be able to reach overhead surfaces as easily as they once did. To accommodate your pet as their mobility decreases, prioritize accessibility and comfort. We recommend placing non-slick surfaces or carpets on hardwood floors to help your pet stand-up and move around without slipping. For cats, their struggle may lie in reaching high-up areas. As such, consider incorporating ramps or steps to help your cat reach their favorite lounge areas.
Grooming and Hygiene
Senior pets may experience difficulties when it comes to grooming and hygiene. As pets age, they may develop incontinence. For dogs, placing potty pads indoors can help reduce accidents. For cats, upgrading their litter box to a wider, and lower litter box can help facilitate their potty needs. Furthermore, it’s important to keep your pet clean and dry. We recommend washing and wiping them down daily to eliminate the risk of infection or urine scald. To satisfy your pet’s grooming needs as they become less able to handle them on their own, be sure to brush them regularly to combat matted fur and trim their nails frequently to prevent overgrowth.
Hone your senior pet ownership skills by contacting your trusted veterinarian today to learn more about how to care for your senior pet’s health and wellness needs.