Senior Pet Care

By Jennifer Herne, LVT

Pets are living longer than ever now due to improved veterinary care and dietary habits. One consequence of this is that pets, along with their owners and veterinarian, are faced with a whole new set of age-related conditions.

In the last decade there has been extensive research on the problems facing older pets and the care they need. Just as in humans, pets face much of the same disease issues as we do. You may wonder when your pets becomes "geriatric", generally 7 years of age, however larger breed dogs tend to have shorter life spans and are considered geriatric when they are approximately 6 years of age. Owners tend to want to think of their pet's age in human terms; it isn't quite as simple as that. You can't compare cat and dog years as the same since cat bodies and dog bodies vary, and within the dog breeds those vary quite a bit from each other as well. Large and giant breeds do not tend to live as long as tiny or small breeds.

Some issues that affect older dogs and cats include; cancer, senility, heart disease, liver disease, joint or bone problems, urinary issues, weakness and diabetes. Older pets need diets (foods) that are more easily digested and also may need anti-aging supplements. Some foods, depending on the quality, have these ingredients added during the food making process. Also, an older pet has a weakened immune system so parasite control is also very important. If you have a geriatric pet, increased veterinary care is recommended. Two or three veterinary visits per year are sufficient unless you see your pet having any change in behaviors. If so, then you should have your pet seen right away by your veterinarian for an exam. Remember you are with your pet every day and will notice slight changes in your pet. By keeping all of these things in mind you can help prolong the life of your pet and allow you to enjoy your pet longer. For more information contact your local veterinarian.