Did you know that pets age faster than people and can be considered seniors at around 7 years old? In general, large breed dogs age more rapidly in comparison to small breed dogs and cats. Nutritional needs, exercise habits, and many aspects of your pet's daily routine can change as your pet ages. But how can you tell the difference between normal aging and a medical problem? As in humans, some health issues that affect older pets can begin with very subtle changes that may go unnoticed until the problem has become serious.
Slowing down or trouble getting up can be related to osteoarthritis, organ damage or other diseases. Eating more and drinking and urinating more can be related to diabetes, kidney changes, liver disease or other metabolic conditions. Only eating soft food may be related to dental disease or pain in your pet's mouth. A sudden reluctance to walk over tile or slick surfaces, or step over objects or shadows may be related to their vision or painful bones and joints. Twice annual check-ups are important for your senior pet and will allow us to keep your pet comfortable and happy longer!
Even if your senior pet is already being treated for a medical condition, treatment recommendations can change as a condition progresses. Sometimes medication dosages need to be adjusted, or medication may need to be changed. Routine wellness blood work and other routine diagnostic testing are important for senior pets because these tests allow us to evaluate how your pet's health is either responding to current management strategies or changing with age.
Older pets make wonderful companions, and thanks to advances in veterinary medicine, pets are living longer than ever! You are an important ally in your senior pet's health care. We are here to help ensure that your pet is safe and happy throughout their golden years.