Senior Changes
As our beloved companions age there are many changes that occur that can affect their quality of life. All too often we hear people mention “Suzie seems to be slowing down a lot, but I guess that’s just due to her age”. This is a very common misconception. While certainly senior pets will not be as spry as their young counterparts, most aspects of ‘slowing down’ are directly related to a cause that can be improved if not completely removed. The best way to head off ‘slowing down’ symptoms is to bring your pet in for regular check ups. For senior (7yr+) pets we recommend a full comprehensive physical be performed every 6 months. Wellness testing should also be conducted at this time to keep an eye on organ function. Most senior pets, especially cats, do not show outward signs of deteriorating organ function until it is quite progressed. Early detection is key.
Signs to watch for in you elderly pet are:
- Drinking more water and urinating more
- Having difficulty going to the toilet
- Bad breath, bleeding gums, poor oral health
- Lumps and bumps in the skin
- Weight gain or loss
- Changes in appetite
- Responding more slowly to stimuli, such as calling
- “Depression”
- Stiffness, limping, difficulty jumping into a car, lagging behind on walks
- Confusion, disorientation, forgetting learned behaviours e.g. house training
- Changes in sleeping habits
- Dull coat
If you notice any of the above changes please call us to set up an appointment.
Helpful Information
Below are some links to sites with useful information related to your senior pet. If you ever have any questions or concerns about your pets health please do not hesitate to give us a call and set up an appointment with the veterinarian. Please understand while it may seem like a simple question to ask, it is impossible and unethical for us to dispense medical or quality of care advice over the phone without having seen the pet first.
Senior Pet Products (*please note we do not necessarily endorse all products sold through this website)