Caring for Your Senior Pet

Like people, senior pets require special care to keep them in good health. As your pet ages, they are more prone to health problems that restrict their mobility and lifestyle. Changes to their diet, exercise regimen, or home life could improve your pet’s quality of life in their “golden years.” Whitemud Crossing Animal Hospital is happy to provide advise for how to provide care for your aging companion.

Pet Wellness Tips for Senior Pets

Here are a few ways to keep your senior dog or senior cat healthy as they age:

Diet: Older dogs and cats need a diet tailored for their aging needs to help provide strength and energy while avoiding excess weight gain. By changing your pet’s diet to age-appropriate foods, you can improve its long-term health.

Exercise: Senior pets need regular but gentle exercise daily to keep their muscles and joints in shape. If you have a senior dog, you may need to substitute vigorous playtimes in the park with short, leisurely walks to give your pup the exercise he or she needs. Hydrotherapy also provides a senior dog with opportunities for gentle exercise without stressing its body.

Mental stimulation: Mental stimulation is important for senior pets as a sharp mind can improve your pet's overall well-being. Look for engaging games and activities that can sharpen your senior cat or dog’s mind without taxing its body.

Pet-proof your home: Many senior pets suffer from mobility problems, making it difficult to climb stairs or get around. You can help by redesigning your living space to make it easier and safer for your pet.

Pet preventative care: Senior pets need more frequent checkups to monitor their delicate health. Your Edmonton veterinarian may also recommend additional diagnostics to catch problems early when they’re easier to treat. Early treatment gives senior pets a greater chance of recovering from an illness or health issue.

See Your Edmonton AB Veterinarian for Senior Pet Care

Need help keeping your senior dog or senior cat in optimal health? Contact Whitemud Crossing Animal Hospital in Edmonton AB at (780) 756-5070 for preventative pet care.