For most of us, a dog or cat is part of the family and can go to any extent to ensure their well-being. Just like puppies or kittens, senior companions need special care. While age may cause difficulties in walking, sore joints, irritability, vulnerability to diseases, dementia, and other conditions, there are still steps any owner can take to comfort an aging pet.
Without a doubt, proper nutrition is essential for dogs and cats of all stages. However, a senior companion will need a nutritious diet to keep him healthy and active. Age renders a dog or cat less active, and the caloric needs drop. As such, you have to cut on the caloric portions and focus more on a well-balanced diet. Also, you can enrich your companion's food with fatty acids, omega 3, and other supplements.
For instance, if your dog or cat has Kidney disease, go for foods that help to keep calcium and phosphorus levels in check. Dr. Pasternak has substantial education in nutrition from all life stages from puppy/kittens to the senior years and everything in between. Be sure to ask Dr. Pasternak about raw diets.
Age makes a dog/catless mobile posing the risk of arthritis, weight gain, and other conditions associated with inactivity. The solution to the problem is to walk your dog regularly and set aside some playtime for your dog and cat. This will keep them active to prevent illnesses.
Dental care for dogs/cats is critical for preventing gum disease that leads to falling and aching of teeth. Dr. Pasternak will advise on the best way to keep the teeth clean.
Parasites including fleas and ticks can make your dog or cat's inactivity and attack severaly. As such, the routine for vaccinations may need to chance. Talk with Dr. Pasternak on the best vaccination and the administrastion intervals for the best results. He can also advise on flea and tick products like Revolution, Vectra-3D, or Comfortis tablets.
As hinted above, a senior dog or cat will become less active and may tend to adopt a sedentary life. While sitting and sleeping all day, you're likely to discover the matting of hair and long nails. Regular grooming allows for the growth of new hair and skin while simpultaneously allowing for inspections.
**Ask us abour our grooming and nail trim services**
in most cases, aging "senior" dog or cats still have their health and may have signs of aging. Geriatric animals often experience more health-related issues.
Your pet's behavior may also help indicate signs of aging. While cats don't always show that something is wrong until their issues become more advances, many dogs are more demonstrative and vocal with their discomfort.
Here are some things to keep an eye on: