A Guide to Senior Pet Care at Maple Valley Veterinary

Caring for an aging animal is not just about comfort; it’s about the quality of life. At Maple Valley Veterinary, it is known that as the pet ages, it simply becomes more prone to various potential health issues. It is a well-known fact for senior pets just like cats and dogs. Your older pet has given you years of unconditional love and loyalty, and with the right care and attention, they can continue to enjoy their golden years.

• You may notice that your elderly pet is just not behaving the same anymore. Maybe they’re sleeping more, or they don’t act as enthusiastic about their favorite activities, or they are not as quick to greet you at the door. Though these can be the result of aging, they could very well be symptoms of some underlying health issue. Unlike humans, pets rarely act as if they are in pain, so one needs to be very observant.
• Any changes in behavior, such as difficulty walking, accidents in the house, or changes in appetite, are noteworthy and worthy of discussion with your veterinarian.
• As pets get older, visits to a veterinarian become more routine. Senior care typically includes advanced physical examinations, including blood tests, along with imaging studies, such as X-rays, for early detection of disorders. Conditions like kidney disease, arthritis, or even diabetes could be identified earlier with this kind of examination. Many mature animals need specialized care which may involve medications to make them comfortable and happy.
• A very common ailment in older animals is arthritis. Many mature animals show some degree of joint discomfort, which may make movements quite painful for them. You might find your dog shying away from the stairs, or your cat not quite willing to hop onto the couch like it used to. Luckily, arthritis can be treated. The appropriate treatment may be medication, supplements, or physical therapy, and with the proper treatment, your pet will be able to feel some relief and some restoration of its mobility.

Veterinarian doctor is making a check up of a australian shepherd dog at clinic.

• Diet is another critical part of senior pet care. The metabolism significantly slows down when they age, and there’s a shift in nutritional requirements. Switching to a diet meant for aged pets can really make a big difference. Many of these foods are formulated to support the health of joints, digestion, and even heart health.
• It’s also vital to keep them at a healthy weight, as additional pounds put extra stress on joints and increase the possibility of conditions such as arthritis or diabetes.
• In the case of serious changes with your pet, such as excessive thirst, loss of appetite, or even difficulty breathing, the best option would be to contact your vet immediately. These could be indicative of something worse that might require immediate attention.
• Mental stimulation is also an important factor in seniors. You can keep their mind sharp by introducing puzzle toys, teaching them new tricks, or changing up daily routines. Like people, pets can have cognitive decline as they get older, and keeping them engaged can help maintain their sharpness, and prevent boredom.

Care for an aging pet includes much more than just their basic physical needs; it means emotional support during the older years of their lives. While they may not have as much energy as they once did, they still want to be loved and enjoy spending time with you. This can include anything from cuddling up on the couch to merely sitting quietly together, providing them comfort and security in knowing that they are appreciated.

It does take a little more effort than caring for an older pet, but the rewards can’t be measured.