Showing posts with label older pet care. Show all posts
Showing posts with label older pet care. Show all posts
Sunday, December 28, 2014

Keeping Your Senior Pet Healthy


 The care of a senior pet will differ from that of younger one.  It's never too late to make healthy changes to your pet's diet and supplement regimen.  Many times pet owners may see signs of a pet's deterioration and conclude that is just "old age" when in fact, it a health problem that can be readily addressed.  Taking your senior pet in at least twice a year for regular check-ups that include laboratory tests (blood and urine) every 6 months is a way to find potential health problems early.

What is your your pet's true age in human years? According to the American Veterinary Medical Association your pets age is estimated as:


*Small: 0-20 lbs; Medium: 21-50 lbs; Large: 51-90 lbs; Very large: >90 lbs 

Older Pet Care Considerations

These are some considerations that become more critical as a pet gets older:
  • Increased veterinary care- senior pets should have more frequent veterinarian exams to monitor their health
  • Diet and nutrition- nutritional needs change as the pet ages ---it's never too late to improve your pet's diet!
  • Weight control - changes in weight ( gain or loss) may be a sign of a problem 
  • Parasite control-becomes more important due to an immune system not being as effective as in younger pets
  • Maintaining mobility-older pets keeping mobile through exercise helps keep them healthier. Curcumin for Pets reduces inflammation and improves mobility in both cats and dogs.
  • Vaccination - vaccination needs may change, and a program for geriatric pets should be discussed
  • Mental health-Senior pets can begin to show signs of senility.  Keeping them stimulated and mentally active can helpDogs in particular can display dementia and using Dog Brain Booster can greatly help.
  • Environmental considerations- reevaluate your pets environment for comfort and safety.
You can play a big role in your pet's health, as they age, by watching for physical and behavioral changes. Often your pet may show behavior changes before a disease is detected.  The following are some behavioral changes an older pet may dipslay:
  • Increased reaction to sounds
  • Increased vocalization
  • Confusion
  • Disorientation
  • Decreased interaction w/humans
  • Increased aggressive/protective behavior or anxiety
  • Increased anxiety
  • House soiling
  • Decreased self-hygiene/grooming
Be sure to bring your pet to the veterinarian if you notice any of these changes.  Adding powerful, purified Omega 3 fatty acids found in Amazing Omegas is essential for all aging cats and dogs.