We all tend to agree that little puppies and kittens are cute, but there is something great about senior pets as well.
Not only do they tend to be calmer, more socialized and loving, but they also do great with older people, families and single people. However, even your puppies and kittens will grow and with time you should learn to properly care for your senior pet.
Here are a few tips to keep your older pets healthy and happy.
1. Keep them active. Pets lacking proper exercise can lose muscle mass and thinking skills much faster than those who are physically active on a regular basis. Talk with your vet to see what activity level your pet should be at and then work on creating a schedule to ensure your animal meets his or her needed daily exercise.
2. Don't skip check-ups. Regular check-ups with your vet is crucial to any pet's health. We recommend seeing the vet for a check-up with your senior pet every six months. This will help detect any problems early and can even end up saving your pet's life.
3. Pick the right food. There are foods that are specially formulated to fit the needs of senior pets. Remember, food is their fuel and by giving them a specialized food, you are making sure your pet gets the nutrients he or she may need. To ensure your pet gets a nutritious and full meal, make sure you read the labels and feed your aging pet the proper amount of food. Your vet may have recommendations for which food would work best for your pet's specific dietary needs.
4. Watch out for them. No one knows your pet better than you do. You will be the first person to know if your pet's appearance changes, mood changes or activity levels change. Be the eyes and ears for your pet and notify your vet if any unusual changes happen. These changes may be nothing, but they can also be part of a larger issue.
5. Know the signs. Many symptoms in older pets can indicate larger problems. If you notice any changes including those listed below, contact your vet immediately. These changes include:
• Sudden increase or decrease in your pet’s appetite or weight
• Hair loss or change in the quality of your pet’s coat
• Limping
• Sudden changes in your pet’s activity level
• Change in urination
• Sore mouth, vomiting or constant coughing
Remember, we all want your pet to live a long and happy life and with these easy tips, you will have many more years of love and companionship with your senior pets.
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