Caring For Older Animals

Older pets get more complex requirements and it's important for owners to recognise these needs

Caring for Older Animals

 

As your beloved pets gets older, it can be hard to accept that they are not as athletic and physically capable as they used to be. Older pets get new and more complex requirements and it is important for owners to recognise and understand these needs.

 

However, if any health issues are managed well, there is no reason why your pet cannot still enjoy a wonderful quality of life.

 

Some of the issues that can affect older animals are:

 

  • Reduced hearing
  • Poor eyesight
  • Problems with teeth and difficulty eating
  • Worn joints and arthritis
  • Dry skin and Skin irritations
  • Lower energy levels
  • Reduced immune system
  • Incontinence
  • Deteriation of internal organs, such as heart or kidneys
  • Weight issues – either weight loss through poor digestion or weight gain due to being less physically active

Giving the Best Quality of Life

It is so important that we break down any barriers of not seeking help for a pet for the fear of being told that it needs to be put to sleep. We know that owners can put off seeking help as they are afraid of that they may be told – but thanks to advances in medicine and care, there is so much that can be done for the older pet.

 

Like all vets, we believe in doing everything we can to give each animal the chance of as much life as possible. We will work with you to give your treasured pet the best possible quality of life.

 

Regular health checks

 

Making sure that your pet has a regular health check is vital to maintaining their wellbeing in old age. We recommend that your pet sees their vet at least once a year (when they have their annual vaccination booster) and more frequently if you have any concerns.

Helping Senior Pets
  • What steps can I take to help my elderly pet?
  • What should I be looking out for as my pet gets older?

What steps can I take to help my elderly pet?

Regular health checks with your vet are increasingly important as your pet gets older, so make sure they have one at least once a year.

Routine care also becomes more important, so keeping on top of things like your pet's grooming, dental care, worming, flea control and exercise (albeit more sedately) will help keep your pet in top condition.

What should I be looking out for as my pet gets older?

Some of the most common problems to keep an eye out for with older pets include problems chewing food and swallowing food, reduced hearing or eyesight and mobility issues, as joints become increasingly worn.

See the page above for a full list of health issues to be aware of with your older pet.

Back To Pet Advice