The life expectancy of pets has increased dramatically over the past few decades. People are taking better care of their pets than ever, and advancements in veterinary science and pet nutrition have made a huge difference in the health and wellness of aging pets. If you have an aging pet, you’re likely starting to worry about their future. How can you make sure that their elderly years are just as happy as their younger years? We’re here to talk all about GeriatricPetCare so you can keep your older pet healthy and happy.
You should do your best never to skip vet appointments for your furry friends, but this gets even more important as your pets get into their older years. Even if your pet seems healthy, you should do a yearly pet check-up. The most important type of veterinary care is preventive veterinary care. This is what routine vet visits are for. The vet will make sure that your pet is up-to-date on their vaccinations, that they appear to be in good health, that their dental health seems good, and that there are no obvious concerns. They may also recommend blood tests (or other tests) for common problems that older pets face. Remember that preventive care is more affordable than emergency care. Taking your pet to the vet every year will save you money while you keep your pet healthy and happy.
Again, this is something you should be doing even from the time your pet is young, but it gets more important as they age. Occasional short-term health and behavioral changes are normal. It’s also normal for pets to develop slightly different personalities as they get older. For example, many pets get cuddlier as they age. Other changes are unusual. If a pet is showing signs of distress or illness (even if it’s mild), note those changes so you can talk to your vet about them. It may even benefit you to make a vet appointment even if it’s not time for your pet’s yearly visit.
On the topic of changes, keep in mind that as pets hit their “elder” years, it’s normal for them to slow down a bit. They may not get the “zoomies” as often, and their playtime may be shorter than it was in their younger years. While it’s okay to bring this up to your vet when you notice it, we also urge you not to panic! With that in mind, you should still be playing with your pet when they’re in the mood for it. All pets have different playtime tolerances, so let your pet lead the way. Playing will help your pets stay mobile as they get older.
GeriatricPetCare is a bit more complicated than caring for younger pets, but as long as you’re keeping up with vet visits and keeping these considerations in mind, your pet can live happily in its elder years. Caring for older pets may mean occasional emergency vet visits, tests, and medication, but it’s worth it to provide a great life for your furry friend. Are you looking for a new vet for your treasured pet? At seniorpetsolutions.com, we’ve got you covered. We offer veterinary surgery, pet dermatology, and more.