Caring for your senior pet means more than treating problems as they arise. By knowing about some of the common diseases of older pets, and understanding the importance of early detection, you and your pet can enjoy a longer, healthier relationship.

Cats and dogs age faster than humans. The old adage of one dog (or cat) year equals seven human years is a close estimate, but it may vary from this depending on breed and size of dog (large dogs age faster). Because pets are unable to tell us when something is wrong, it is necessary to pay very close attention to their behavior.  We also highly recommend veterinary exams twice a year, and yearly screening tests in older animals. These tests allow us to discover problems early on and begin treatment right away.  This can improve the quality of life for your pet, as well as extending life expectancy.

Common problems of older animals:

1)    Dental disease-infection of the teeth and gums can decrease a pet’s life expectancy by several years. This painful problem can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream and go to the heart, liver or kidneys. Tooth brushing and professional cleanings help prevent this.

2)    Obesity-this problem increases the chances of developing diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and more. We can design a weight loss program that is safe and effective.

3)    Kidney disease-this is one of the leading causes of death in older cats.  Early detection allows us to put the pet on a special diet, and home fluid therapy may be given if needed.

4)    Heart disease-A common problem in older dogs. Early detection (using physical exam, xrays and ecg) allows us to put the pet on medication and a special diet to prolong its life.

5)    Thyroid problems-Dogs tend to get hypothyroid, while cats can become hyperthyroid.  Either condition is detectable on bloodwork, and both are treatable.

6)    Lumps and bumps-older pets often have benign fatty tumors called lipomas.  These lumps, however, can look just like other types of skin tumors that are cancerous, and only looking at the cells under a microscope will tell the difference.

These are just a few of the problems that may affect older pets.  This is why we recommend that all pets 9 years of age and older (5years and over in large breed dogs) have veterinary exams twice a year, screening bloodwork and urinalysis once a year, and xrays every other year. It is our goal at Wiseman Animal Hospital to do all we can to keep your senior pet happy and healthy.

SENIOR CARE CHECKLIST

If you checked “yes” to any of these signs, your pet may need special care.  Talk to your veterinarian.              

                                                                                         Yes           No

Difficulty climbing stairs                                                     ____         ____

Difficulty jumping up                                                         ____         ____

Increased stiffness or limping                                             ____         ____

Loss of housetraining: house soiling                                   ____         ____

Changes in litter box habits/

Inappropriate elimination (cats)                                          ____         ____

Increased thirst                                                                  ____         ____

Increased urination                                                            ____         ____

Changes in activity level                                                     ____         ____

Excessive panting or changes in

      Breathing patterns                                                        ____         ____

Circling/repetitive movements                                            ____         ____

Confusion or disorientation                                                ____         ____

Excessive barking/meowing                                               ____         ____

Less interaction with family members/hiding                       ____         ____

Decreased responsiveness                                                 ____         ____

Tremors or shaking                                                           ____         ____

Skin and haircoat changes                                                  ____         ____ 

Excessive scratching                                                         ____         ____

Changes in sleeping patterns/location                                 ____         ____

Less enthusiastic greeting or behavior                                 ____         ____

Altered appetite                                                                 ____         ____

Weight change                                                                  ____         ____

Other                                                                                ____         ____