Caring for Geriatric Pets

Large dogs are considered old when they reach their 6^th year but it’s a little later for small dogs and cats.  Elderly feline is easy to spot due to physical changes.  Behavioral changes are the most physical signs that indicate old age among dogs.  Younger dogs tend to be up and about when greeting people.  A dog may even be standing on two feet when excited or asking for attention. Elderly dogs would simply approach people in a slow fashion and simply taking its time to reach its destination.

The slow pacing also happens during walks or games.  For dogs, that used to bolt to fetch the ball now takes so much longer since running is replaced with a royal trot.  Cats and dogs will be laying down more and even sleep. Both domesticated creatures won’t be showing much interest in other things, not even food, save for the occasional activation of territorial instincts.  Some dogs will also experience a weakening of the senses, mostly hearing. They get startled when approached from behind because the age-related hearing loss.  When this happens, this has to be given to the attention of the veterinarian to rule out ear infection or other disease.

Aside from frequent visits to the vet, food for an aged pet must be given a lot of consideration. They have to be given quality diet since they’re not much of an eater anymore.  Pet owners will likely be seeing the pet bowl still filled until the next day. Pets must always be encouraged to move about.  Even if it’s painstaking to walk a slow dog and it takes only one round of a game of fetch to get it panting, exercise will help to keep them healthy.  As for cats, entice it to move with a toy mouse or a ball of yarn.

Since pets will not be active as much as before, they will start losing muscle mass and eventually lose weight. Keep it the old cat fed with a diet that’s high in moisture, protein and fat.  Avoid giving it carbohydrates and plant protein. As for dogs, vets recommend more protein, less fat and nutritional supplements that can be added in their water.  Doctors also recommend maintaining dental health among ageing pets as they’re more prone to infections caused by gum and mouth diseases.