Is your four-legged bestie getting old? Pets often manage to get even cuter as they age. Many dogs and cats become extra loving and charming in their golden years. They really just want to be petted and loved on, and to collect as many belly rubs and ear scritches as possible. They also like to spend much of their time snoozing and snuggling with their humans, which makes them easy keepers. Of course, much like humans, pets require slightly different care as they age. Continue reading for more elderly pet care tips from a local Dawsonville, GA veterinarian.

Monitor Your Pet’s Food And Water Intake

Many of the health issues we commonly see in senior pets will have an impact on Fido and Fluffy’s appetite, food and water consumption, urine output, and weight. These aren’t the only things to look for, but they’re often the first things people notice. Keep track of what your pet eats and drinks, as well as their weight and overall health. You should also keep a lookout for signs of lethargy, respiratory problems, or lameness.

Conduct Breed-Specific Research

Some medical issues are common among our furry friends in general. Hip dysplasia, arthritis, and eyesight and hearing loss are some examples. However, your pet’s breed plays a role in this situation. Do some study to see whether your four-legged friend is at a higher risk of having a specific condition. This is especially important for people with dogs. However, it applies to kitties as well. While breed is less important in the physiology of cats than it is in dogs, it can and does play a role. If your dog or cat is a mixed breed, as many of our patients are, you might consider getting a DNA test.

Keep Up With Veterinary Care

Because older animals are more likely to develop health issues than their younger counterparts, it is critical to closely monitor their condition. More frequent veterinary visits will benefit both Fido and Fluffy. This is especially true for pets who have known medical conditions. Follow your vet’s recommended appointment schedule.

You should also keep an eye out for symptoms of disease. These include the following:

• Vomiting
• Swelling
• A poor appetite
• Less or More Urination
• Lethargy
• Bad Breath
• Cough
• Incontinence
• Increased Or Decreased Appetite
• Limping/Lameness
• Changes In Sleep Cycles
• Arthritis
• Disorientation
• Hearing And/Or Vision Loss
• Losing Weight
• Obesity
• Aggression
• Difficulty Sitting And Standing
• Increased Thirst
• Abdominal Swelling
• Anxiety

If you detect any of these, call your veterinarian immediately to set up an appointment. Many difficulties may be addressed, but doing so early on is always more beneficial.

Concentrate On Comfort

As your pet grows older, you’ll want to focus on keeping them comfortable rather than entertaining them. Small details, like comfortable beds and night lights, can make a big difference here. The specific steps you will need to take will differ based on the conditions your pet is experiencing. For example, if Fido can’t see properly, you might need to lay out carpet runners to help him navigate his way around the house. A water fountain would be beneficial, as he’ll be able to track the sound. Odor-eating stick-ups can also make good scent markers. If your pet is unable to hear well, you may need to train him to respond to a laser pointer or lamp. Be sure to consult your veterinarian for particular recommendations.

Help them Stay Active

Many elderly animals are quite sleepy. Fido and Fluffy clearly spent a lot of time running and playing when they were younger! They must, however, maintain their physical fitness and activity levels. Daily walks are typically the most popular form of exercise for dogs. Swimming can be enjoyable and beneficial for certain dogs, but it is not universal advice.

Playing allows both dogs and cats to get some exercise. Our canine and feline companions are both quite playful, which is one of the reasons they are so entertaining. Fido and Fluffy will still have energetic moments as they get older, and they will continue to appreciate and benefit from unleashing their (respective) inner puppy and kitten. However, you must consider your four-legged friend’s age during playtime and make a few adjustments.

Here are some pointers for playing with your furry retiree.

Pick Appropriate Toys. Older pets’ playtime preferences may differ from those of younger ones. You may wish to choose vividly colored toys. If Fido or Fluffy has difficulty seeing or hearing, look for playthings that light up or make noise. To keep things interesting, change them out on a regular basis.

Don’t Go Overboard. Older pets tend to get fatigued quicker. They lack the strength and endurance that younger animals possess. Make sure your pet doesn’t overexert themself. If you spot any signs of weariness, call it a day. (This mostly applies to dogs. Cats will take themselves out of the game the moment they feel the tiniest twinge of fatigue.)

Don’t Stop. While you don’t want to push a senior pet too hard, you also don’t want to stop playing with them. Both physical activity and cerebral stimulation benefit our furry friends! Fido and Fluffy may tap out after a few minutes, but that’s okay. Even a few minutes per day will be useful!

Provide Mental Stimulation: Senior pets require less physical activity than younger pets, but they will never lose the desire for cerebral stimulation. Scavenger hunts, trick training, and puzzle toys are all activities that will test your dog’s mental abilities.

Choose A Suitable Area: Always find a safe place for your four-legged pal to play. Avoid spots with slick surfaces, steeply slanted hills, or ramps. Avoid playing near things like pools, staircases, and fireplaces as well.

Choose Proper Activities: You’ll want to get some customized professional advice on this. Senior pets are more delicate and susceptible to injuries, slips, and falls than younger animals. They should not be encouraged to do certain things. For example, an elderly dog with hip dysplasia should not be encouraged to jump or stand on their back legs, and a senior cat should not be expected to jump high or long. Please see your veterinarian for precise advice on this.

Have Fun: Our animal pals never stop being adorable. In fact, many senior pets seem to become even more lovable with time. Enjoy these adorable moments with your pet friend!

Love, Purrs, And Tail Wags

Last but not least, ensure that your senior pet feels loved, safe, and comfortable. Spend some additional time with your senior dog, and let your cat snuggle up on your lap. After a lifetime of delivering love, fun, and companionship, your pet needs you now more than ever. You may discover that this special stage of your pet’s life passes far too quickly, so enjoy it while you can.

Conclusion: Your pet’s needs will alter as they become older. You should see your veterinarian for particular guidance on their food and care requirements. Aside from that, you’ll want to prioritize keeping your pet comfortable above keeping them out of mischief.

Make An Appointment At Our Dawsonville, GA Pet Clinic

Do you have a question about your pet’s health or care? Call us, your Dawsonville, GA pet hospital, now! We are committed to providing high-quality care.