Caring for Your Aging Pet

Aging is just a fact of life. Not only for us, but also for our pets. Like me, you probably still have memories of the first time you laid eyes on your little companion. You probably still have visions of a cute and furry little creature that got into all types of mischief. Still, over the years, you became attached. You started to see them as just another member of the family. You made sure they were well taken care of, and without hesitation, they gave you unconditional love. Unfortunately, one of the absolutes in life is that we will all get older. The same is true for our pets. Like any member of the family, love and care should be given to make sure that time spent with your pet is as long and enjoyable as possible.

Cats and dogs face many of the same signs of aging that people do. Since they age up to seven times faster than humans, these signs tend to show up much earlier than we are prepared for. Generally, once your pet reaches the age of seven or eight a checkup by your vet is recommended at least twice a year. That may seem excessive, but the extra care is well worth it.

You may notice your pet moving a little slower and stiffer than usual. It could be arthritis setting in. They may not hear as well, or they may lose the appetite they once had. Weight loss, a frequent need to urinate, drinking large amounts of water, forgetfulness, skin lesions or lumps, are all problems that should be reported to your vet. There may be serious illnesses developing. Through blood work, fecal examinations, and other tests, your vet can tell if your pet has any type of ailment that can be treated while still in the early stages.

Take a look at the age-related illnesses or conditions listed below. If you know what to be aware of, you can be better prepared if a problem arises. Often pet owners are caught off guard when serious problems arise. Some have even felt the need to euthanize because they didn’t know what else to do. We want our pets to age as gracefully as possible, for as long as possible.

Age Related Illnesses and Conditions That May Effect Your Pet

Kidney Disease
Arthritis
Cancer
Liver Disease
Heart Disease
Prostate Enlargement
Cataracts
Diabetes
Thyroid Ailments
Loss of Hearing
Loss of Memory
Dental Infections and Problems
Problems with Circulation
High Blood Pressure

Of course, this is only a listing of the most common conditions. Still, as I stated previously, you can be better prepared when you know what to look for. It’s never an easy thing to see your once active and energetic pet, now barely able to get around, and no longer interested in play. Still, a well cared for pet may have few if any of these problems.

Special Diet
Products have been developed that work wonders on some conditions. There are numerous therapeutic diets that your vet will be able to consider for your pet. Diabetic cats and dogs sometimes make great improvements with special dietary programs. More companies are beginning to develop products so you can try several to find the one that works best for your pet.

Vitamins and Minerals
Many vitamin supplements are available today. There are even flavored ones to entice your pet.

Exercise
Exercise is definitely recommended. In this instance, when I say exercise, I mean some walking or other movement that is comfortable for your pet. Try playing with your animal if they are able. Stretch those joints. Take it easy though, especially with arthritic conditions.

Comfortable Environment
Make your pets living area as comfortable as possible. You may have to walk your dog a little more often to prevent “accidents” in the house. Move the litter box to a more accessible area, or add another litter box so that kitty accidents are avoided. Make sure that water dishes are close by. Sleep areas may need a little more cushioning for stiff joints.

New Technology
Many new medicines and procedures are now being used to treat conditions and injuries in pets. It’s up to you to have your pet examined at the first sign of a problem. The earlier a condition is detected and treated, the better the outcome.

These are just suggestions to consider for the comfort of your aging pet. Remember that all situations are different. Your vet is the expert when it comes to treating your pet. However, as the owner, you are the one to decide when that expert treatment is needed. Our pets give us so much love and devotion. Don’t we owe them that much in return?