Senior Care for Dogs and Cats

Overview

As your dog or cat ages, their health needs change, requiring special attention and care. At Animal Republic Veterinary Hospital and ER, we provide comprehensive senior care tailored to meet the unique needs of aging pets. Our goal is to help your senior pets age gracefully with the best quality of life possible.

How Aging Impacts the Health of Dogs and Cats

Aging brings about a range of physical and physiological changes in pets, impacting various aspects of their health, including:

• Joint and Mobility Issues: Arthritis and joint pain can lead to stiffness, discomfort, and reduced mobility.
• Dental Disease: Increased risk of dental problems, including periodontal disease and tooth decay, which can affect overall health.
• Vision and Hearing Impairment: Age-related vision and hearing loss may impact your pet’s ability to navigate their environment.
• Heart Health: Older pets are more prone to heart conditions, such as congestive heart failure, requiring ongoing monitoring and management.
• Thyroid Disease: Hypothyroidism in dogs and hyperthyroidism in cats can significantly impact metabolism and overall health.
• Kidney and Liver Function: Aging affects kidney and liver function, leading to conditions like chronic kidney disease or liver disease.
• Cancer: The risk of developing cancer increases with age, making regular screenings and early detection crucial.
• Hypertension: High blood pressure can occur in senior pets and may lead to other health issues if not monitored and managed.

Nutrition for Senior Pets

Proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining the health of senior dogs and cats. As they age, their dietary needs change:

• Balanced Diet: Senior pets may require a diet that supports joint health, digestive function, and weight management.
• Easily Digestible Foods: Older pets often benefit from foods that are easier to digest, reducing the strain on their aging organs.
• General Supplements: Supplements can support various aspects of your pet’s health, but it’s important to consult with our veterinarians to determine what’s appropriate for your pet’s specific needs.

Veterinary Care for Senior Pets

Senior pets require specialized veterinary care to address their unique health needs:

• Cancer Screenings: Early detection and treatment of tumors.
• Routine Consultations for Chronic Disease: Senior pets should visit the vet at least twice a year for comprehensive health assessments to monitor and manage chronic conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and kidney disease.
• Medical Management: Ongoing management of chronic conditions, including medication adjustments, dietary changes, and physical therapy, is essential for maintaining your pet’s quality of life.
• Nutritional Counseling: Tailoring diets and supplements to meet your pet’s evolving needs.
• Vaccinations and Parasite Prevention: Continued protection against diseases and parasites is important, even in older age.
• Preventative Screenings: Regular screenings, such as blood tests, urinalysis, and x-rays, help detect underlying issues before they become severe.
• Pain Management: Effective pain management, including medications, laser therapy, or other treatments, is crucial to keeping your senior pet comfortable and improving their quality of life.
• Blood Pressure Monitoring: Keeping an eye on blood pressure to prevent complications.