April 26, 2023
It can be difficult, watching your four-legged friend age. However, with some subtle changes to their routine, veterinary care, and home environment, you can support them in the best way possible as they reach their senior years. Here are some of the best ways to meet their changing needs.
Regular Veterinary Check-Ups
First and foremost, it is important to schedule regular check-ups with your vet. Taking a preventative approach to healthcare becomes increasingly important as animals age, with early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of age-related conditions helping increase their longevity and wellbeing. Older animals are physically less resilient and therefore require an extra level of support to overcome health challenges.
Regular check-ups are also a good opportunity to check any ‘lumps and bumps’ that have appeared. Cats and dogs both enjoy ‘hands on’ checks, and no-one knows your pet better than you. Take advantage of cuddle time to check them over and feel for any new lumps or tender spots that you can bring to the attention of your vet.
Nutrition and Weight
As cats and dogs reach their senior years, their activity levels inevitably decrease.With fewer calories being burned, fewer calories also need to be consumed!
It can be habit to continue feeding your animal the same way you always have, especially if their level of activity has slowed over a long period of time.Unfortunately if you don’t adjust the quantity of food you serve up, it won’t be long before their weight increases to the point where it adversely affects their health. Monitoring your pet’s weight on a regular basis will be the best indicator of any adjustments that need to be made. Also, be mindful of the amount of snack and treats they have access to between meals.
The nutritional needs of both cats and dogs also changes as they age. Consider switching to food formulated for seniors, along with the addition of supplements for joints and bone health. Pay particular attention to the quality of the food you feed your pet, to meet their full nutritional needs.
Pet Pedicure
As physical activity levels change, generally there is less natural wear and tear on your pet’s toenails. This is addressed a bit differently for dogs and cats. As dogs become stiff and less mobile, it is common for their weight distribution to change across their limbs, and noticeably, their feet and toes may begin to splay. This results in uneven wearing of the toenails. It is important to trim the nails regularly to prevent uneven physical stress on the carpal joints, and to also prevent their feet slipping on smooth surfaces.
Cats are able to self care with regards to claws, as they have a natural instinct to sharpen them, which removes the outer layer. Make sure your cat has access to a scratching post or cat tree, and trim when absolutely necessary – not a job for the feint-hearted!
Heart Problems
The heart is arguably the most important muscle in the body, and like all muscles, the heart deteriorates with age. Heart conditions are not uncommon in elderly cats and dogs, and whilst sometimes difficult to detect, early intervention is the best option for treatment.
Here are some signs you should look for:
• Coughing
• Unexplained shortness of breath
• Becoming abnormally fatigued during exercise.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your cat or dog, it is worth asking your veterinarian to investigate further.
Joint Problems
Osteoarthritis is the most common cause of joint stiffness in dogs and cats, and you may notice that the symptoms of this are worse during the colder, damper months. Here are some tell-tale signs that your pet may be experiencing some deterioration in their joints.
• Slow to stand up or lie down, or showing any signs of discomfort in doing so.
• Hesitant or reluctant to jump up on furniture.
• Cats may mis-judge jumps they could previously manage with ease.
• Dogs may have difficulty jumping in and out of the car and will require some assistance.
There are many natural remedies available to reduce the inflammation in joints and provide pain relief. It is important to be consistent when treating joint stiffness, as once mobility is lost, it is very hard to maintain muscle strength and stability. Providing a soft and cosy bed in a quiet area away from draughts, will keep your best friend comfortable and rested.
Over the years, our animals become an integral part of our lives. Giving your animal some extra love and affection as they age is one of the most rewarding things you can do to thank them for their continued companionship.
Claire Forsyth
Specialist Animal Kinesiologist B.Sc, Dip Kin
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About the author
Claire Forsyth is a Specialist Animal Kinesiologist and Canine Behaviourist from Perth. Claire has worked with dogs for the last 25 years and specialises in resolving behaviour problems using Kinesiology techniques to remove physiological, neurological and emotional stress.
Please note: Claire's blog is general advice only. For further information on this topic please consult your veterinarian.
