Whether you have been with them since they were puppies or kittens, or you have recently welcomed a pet into your home during their later years, caring for senior pets require added patience and attention. Our team will be with you every step of the way to ensure that your senior pet maintains a high quality of life.
What are the stages of a senior cat’s life? How can I spot the signs of aging?
Cats that are 11 to 14-years-old are senior cats, who in human terms are considered to be in their 60s and 70s. Cats that are 15-years-old and above are considered geriatric cats. Dogs, in comparison, enter their senior stage once they are 6-years-old and above. Altered sleeping patterns, loss of agility, hearing problems, increased disorientation, decreased energy levels, and changes in body weight are some of the most common signs of aging.
My senior cat/dog is losing weight. What can I do?
We recommend that you schedule an evaluation from a veterinarian who will perform a complete health examination and formulate a tailored plan which can include diagnostics (lab work, imaging, etc.) and treatment (dental work, nutritional supplementation, appropriate medications, etc.).
What are some common health issues experienced by senior cats or dogs?
Kidney disease, arthritis, dental problems are just some of the diseases that older pets are susceptible to. For this reason, it is important that they receive regular and frequent examinations from their designated veterinarian.
Why is my senior cat/dog having behavioural issues?
Slower response times, reluctance for physical activities, aggression, anxiety and staring are some of the common behavioural issues displayed by older pets. These are typically caused by cognitive dysfunction which can be managed through a combination of medications and therapies. Many health changes are gradual and subtle in the early stage of the illness when treatment can have its biggest impact on the quality of life and life expectancy. Diagnostics, when unwell or as part of routine screening, can be largely beneficial in managing your pet’s health. If you notice any of the following changes in your pet, please call us to discuss the next best step: altered appetite (increased or decreased), weight changes (increased or decreased), increased thirst or urination, changes in fecal consistency, frequency, or inappropriate urination/defecation, or vomiting.
