Senior Pet Care: Tips for Keeping Your Older Pet Happy and Healthy

As our furry friends age, adjusting our care routines to ensure they’re happy, healthy, and comfortable is important. Whether you have a senior dog or cat, you can do plenty of simple things to help your pet age gracefully and maintain a high quality of life in its golden years. In this blog, we’ll review tips for keeping your older pet happy and healthy, from diet and exercise to regular vet visits and plenty of affection.

1. Adjust their diet

As pets age, their nutritional needs can change. Older pets may require different types or amounts of food to stay healthy and maintain their weight. Work with your vet to design a diet plan appropriate for your pet’s specific needs. High-quality senior pet food can be a good option, as it’s specifically formulated with the needs of older pets in mind. Some older pets may also benefit from supplements that can help support joint health, digestion, and overall well-being.

2. Ensure plenty of exercise

While older pets may not be able to run and play like they used to, exercise is still important to maintain their health and mobility. Regular walks around the block or gentle playtime can help keep your pet active and engaged. Talk to your vet about what types of exercise are appropriate for your pet based on their breed, health, and mobility.

3. Help manage arthritis pain

As pets age, they may be more prone to arthritis, which can cause discomfort and limit mobility. There are a number of ways to help manage arthritis pain and support joint health, such as regular exercise, weight management, and joint supplements. Your vet may also recommend medications or other treatments to help manage pain and inflammation.

4. Keep up with dental care

Dental health is important for pets of all ages, but it becomes even more crucial as pets get older. Regular dental cleanings and checkups can help prevent issues like gum disease, tooth decay, and infections that can be especially problematic for senior pets. In addition to regular vet visits, you can also promote good dental health by regularly brushing your pet’s teeth and providing chew toys or dental treats.

5. Stay on top of preventative care

Regular vet visits are crucial for keeping your older pet healthy and addressing any potential issues early on. Ensure your pet stays up to date on vaccinations, parasite prevention, and other preventative care. Your vet may also recommend certain tests or screenings based on your pet’s age and health history.

6. Keep them mentally stimulated

Like people, pets can benefit from mental stimulation to help maintain cognitive function and keep boredom at bay. Provide plenty of toys and puzzles that challenge your pet’s mind and keep them engaged. You can also try training exercises or games like hide-and-seek to keep your pet mentally stimulated and entertained.

7. Show them plenty of love and attention

As pets age, they may become more dependent on their owners for comfort and security. Ensure you provide plenty of love, attention, and affection to help your pet feel safe and secure. This can mean spending extra time cuddling on the couch or giving your pet extra scratches and pets. Ensure your older pet feels supported, loved, and cherished.

Vet Clinic Near Me

Caring for an older pet requires a few extra steps, but it’s well worth the effort to ensure your furry friend lives a happy and healthy life. Whether you’re adjusting their diet, helping manage arthritis pain, or simply showing them plenty of love, there are plenty of ways to take care of your senior pet. By staying on top of preventative care, providing plenty of exercise, and keeping them mentally stimulated, you can help your pet live its golden years with comfort, health, and happiness.

If you need any help taking care of your older pet, Rolling Plains Veterinary Corporation is here to help. Our team of experienced vets can help you design a care plan tailored to your pet’s specific needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or discuss any questions or concerns you may have. We’re here to help you keep your furry friend healthy and happy in their golden years.

Categorised in: Cat Care, Dog Care, How to Become Great Pet Owners

This post was written by Dr. Marc Phillipot