Senior Care for Pets

As your cherished cat or dog gets older it is important to recognize their limitations and pay closer attention to their health. One of the best ways to show your love is to adjust the care you provide them and help them age gracefully. At Rimbey Veterinary Clinic we are experts at caring and screening senior felines/canines for age-related conditions.

At what age is my cat or dog considered a senior?

Senior status differs for cats and dogs. Cats are usually considered seniors between 8 to 10 years-old. Canines are classified as seniors based on their breed, size and genetics. Large breed dogs age faster and can be considered seniors when they are around 6 or 7-years-old.  Medium-sized dogs are seniors when they are 8 or 9 and small breeds aren’t considered seniors until they are about 9 to 10-years-old.

What can I expect as they get older?

Your loyal companion will experience some similar physical changes that are associated with aging in humans. There will also be changes in your feline or canine’s behaviour and health. Many senior pets will develop diabetes, heart disease, cancer, arthritis, kidney and liver disease, which is why more frequent veterinary examinations are necessary. Here are the symptoms that your cat or dog is getting older:

1. Greying around the muzzle and on top of their head
2. Hearing or sight problems
3. Thinning hair or coat
4. Matting on your cat’s back
5. Decreased energy
6. Increased drinking
7. Bumps and lumps
8. Exercise intolerance

How can I make my senior dog/cat more comfortable at home?

Based on your loyal companion’s overall health the veterinarian will suggest different changes to accommodate them. One of the most important things to remember is to be patient with your feline or canine companion. Here are some other things you can do to ensure they have a good quality of life:

1.  Your cat or dog should have comfortable and easily accessible resting places especially if they have aching joints (arthritis).
2. Trim their nails and paw pads to give them better grip and traction so they won’t be uncomfortable or fall easily.
3. Keep track of their energy levels as a decline could signal heart disease or pain which your veterinarian can treat.
4. Brush their teeth regularly. Dental health is extremely important and at their age it’s best to protect them from any infections that could easily become life-threatening.
5. Brush their fur regularly to prevent matting and stimulate blood flow. Grooming is difficult for senior cats and dogs as they can’t reach some areas due to arthritis.
6. Keep them active with low-intensity exercises such as swimming, short walks, gentle playing and laser games.