Aging pets need more attention and special care. At Elmwood Veterinary Hospital we are very keen on providing senior pets with the care they need. Our team is ready to work with pet owners to cater to the needs of their loyal companions. Getting older doesn’t always mean that your pet’s quality of life diminishes, with proper care and regular veterinary exams your pet can continue to live a long and happy life.
At what age is my pet considered to be a senior?
Bigger breed dogs are seniors at 5- or 6-years-old. Smaller breeds or medium-sized breeds are seniors between 8- or 10-years-old. Cats, on the other hand, are considered seniors at 8-years-old. Your pet can fall into various levels of seniority and so it is best to speak with one of our veterinarians to determine what stage your loyal companion is in.
My pet has difficulty hearing me sometimes. Is this a sign that they may be considered a senior?
Yes! Just like in humans, deteriorating hearing and eyesight are signs that your pet is getting older. The signs do not show up all at once, but rather over time. As your furry friend’s guardian, you should look out for changes and relay them to your veterinarian. Some other signs you should look out for are:
- Greying around chest, muzzle and on top of the head
- Lumps
- Increase/ decrease in eating, drinking and urinating
If you notice any of these signs, be sure to mention them at your pet’s veterinary exam or next appointment. To schedule an appointment call us at 506-858-9900.
What are some health issues that my senior pet may have?
In order to catch illnesses and prevent them from becoming serious we recommend a physical exam every 6 months. As our pets age, certain illness can progress quickly, so we would like to be able to catch them as early as we can. If your pet suffers from any aging health issues, our veterinarians do their best to treat your pet’s symptoms. Illnesses associated with senior pets could include:
1. Cancer
2. Arthritis
3. Diabetes
4. Liver and kidney disease
5. Heart disease
6. Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (Alzheimer’s disease in humans)
