As pets get older, their needs change, just like people. Senior pets, like dogs and cats, need special care and changes in their daily routines to stay happy and healthy. The aging process in animals can be gradual or sudden, depending on their breed and lifestyle.
Ensuring your senior pet gets the care they need is important for their comfort, health, and happiness. By giving your senior pet the right care, you can help them stay active, healthy, and happy even in their old age.
Aging Pets: When Does Seniorhood Begin?
The age at which pets enter seniorhood varies depending on their size and breed. Large breed dogs, such as Great Danes, may be considered seniors at 6 or 7 years, while smaller breeds like Chihuahuas may not reach seniorhood until 10 to 12 years. Cats typically enter their senior years around 10 years of age.
During this stage, you may notice changes in your pet's mobility, activity levels, or behavior, such as increased sleeping or reduced enthusiasm for play. They may show signs of arthritis, like stiffness or pain in their joints. They may also act differently, like getting confused, not knowing where they are, or changing how they interact with others.
These changes may be small at first, but keeping an eye on your pet's behavior can help you adjust their care to meet their changing needs.
Common Health Concerns in Senior Pets
As pets age, their bodies become more prone to different health issues. Some common pet health issues that could come up are:
- Arthritis: Pets may have trouble moving because their joints are stiff and sore. They may avoid jumping or climbing stairs because of severe pain.
- Pet dementia: Cognitive dysfunction can mess with your furry friend's mind, leading to confusion, getting lost in familiar places, sleeping patterns that are all over the place, and not showing interest in hanging out with their humans as they used to.
- Kidney Disease: Senior cats, in particular, often get kidney problems. You might notice they're drinking more water, losing weight, or peeing differently.
- Dental Disease: Tooth tartar and gum disease can hurt a pet's mouth and even make their teeth fall out. This can make it hard for them to eat their food.
- Heart Disease: Many older pets, especially small dogs, have heart issues. You might notice your pet coughing, looking tired, or having trouble breathing.
Taking your furry friend to the vet for regular check-ups is super important. It helps determine any health problems early on. Plus, it makes sure your pet stays comfortable and healthy as they get older.
How To Take Care of Senior Dogs & Cats: Essential Care Tips
To make your aging pet's life better, it's important to take good care of them. Here are some tips that can help you care for a senior cat or dog:
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Veterinary Care
Senior pets require more frequent visits to the vet, typically every six months, to make sure they are healthy overall. These regular check-ups help find and treat health problems like arthritis, heart disease, and kidney problems early, which can help your pet feel better and live longer.
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Balanced Nutrition
Help manage weight and address health issues like kidney or heart disease by giving your senior pet a specialized diet. Older pets may need fewer calories but more high-quality protein to maintain muscle mass.
At Pet Express, you'll find the best dog food for senior dogs and healthy cat food for senior cats specially formulated for the nutritional needs of older pets. You can also find senior dog supplements to add to your senior pet’s specialized diet.
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 Brit Care Senior Grain Free Weight Control Dry Cat Food 400g |
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Read more: A Guide to What Makes Pet Food Healthy for Your Furry Friends
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Exercise & Activities
Older pets need to exercise regularly, even though they may not be as active as they used to be. This keeps their joints flexible and prevents them from gaining weight. Dogs can go for short, slow walks, and cats can play with toys that move.
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Dental Care
Brushing your pet's teeth regularly and getting their teeth cleaned by a professional is important for their health. This is especially true as they get older. Pet Express offers dental hygiene supplies for pets to keep your pet's mouth healthy as they age.
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Read more: A Guide to Strong Teeth and Fresh Breath for Your Furry Friends
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Mental Stimulation
As your pet gets older, they may lose some of their memory and thinking skills. To keep their minds active and sharp, you can give them toys, puzzles, and new experiences that challenge them. Playing games like food puzzles or training your pet can also keep their minds healthy.
Pet Express has a variety of dog toys and interactive cat toys to help older pets stay mentally healthy.
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Grooming
Your pet’s fur and skin may need more care as they get older. Brushing them regularly not only helps their blood flow and skin health but also helps find lumps, bumps, or skin problems early on. Discover Pet Express's collection of must-have grooming tools and accessories made just for older pets!
Read more: Keep Your Furry Friend Fresh: Essential Pet Hygiene Tips & Supplies
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Pet Insurance
Consider investing in pet insurance for your senior dogs and cats. As pets age, they may require more frequent visits to the vet and could develop age-related health conditions. Having pet insurance can help alleviate the financial burden of unexpected medical expenses and ensure that your furry companions receive the care they need as they enter their golden years.
Pet Express: Your Partner in Senior Pet Care
During your pet's senior years, providing exceptional care is crucial for their well-being and happiness. Regular veterinarian checkups and access to proper supplies can significantly improve your pet's well-being.
Pet Express is committed to supporting you on this journey by offering a wide range of products and resources specifically designed for aging pets. Visit Pet Express store near you to explore our selection of senior pet care items and get professional advice on how to keep your beloved companion healthy and happy.
