How to Care for Your Senior Pet
November is adopt a senior pet month! As pet parents, you should watch for signs of aging in your furry companion and make the necessary adjustments in order to ensure that your pet is receiving the best senior care available. Making small adaptations to your pet’s regular routine, home environment, and vet care can help improve their quality of life. Not only is it important to make these small adjustments to ensure that they are living comfortably, but it is also extremely important to give them extra cuddles, pets, and loving eye contact.
Here are some tips on how to care for your senior pet:
Keep your pet active
As pets age, it is important that they still get plenty of exercise. Many pet parents believe their pets naturally slow down as they get older, but that is not always the case. If a pet’s activity level gradually decreases over time, this could be a sign that something is wrong. If your senior pet is experiencing signs of pain visit your vet and determine the cause. Keeping your senior pet active can also help prevent weight gain and minimize the effects of arthritis.
Get their blood work checked
It’s important to visit your veterinarian on a regular basis when your pet reaches old age. It is suggested that pet parents receive a yearly blood work exam for their furry companions. A blood work exam is recommended to check your senior pet’s red and white blood cells, kidney functions, and liver functions to make sure they are healthy. This exam is also a great way to detect any diseases.
Try using a sling
If your senior pet has mobility problems, using a sling can be a great way to support your pet’s balance. Support slings are designed to help with walking, climbing stairs, going to the bathroom, and getting into the car. With a handle in the back, you can easily assist your pet and help them when they need to get on their feet.
Invest in a heated bed
If you want to go the extra mile, investing in a heating bed for your senior pet can really help if they are suffering from arthritis or joint problems. Getting a good night’s sleep can help your senior pet reduce pain, improve mobility, and improve their overall quality of life. If purchasing a heating bed seems like too much of an investment, placing a heating pad or mat into your pet’s bed will cause a similar effect.
Make small changes to their environment
Making small adjustments to your home environment can have a huge impact on your senior pet. For example, putting more carpet around your home will make it easier for your senior pet to get up and make it less likely that they will slip and fall. Pet parents also need to relocate where the food and water are situated in order to provide extra comfort for their pets. A great way to do this is by setting up multiple water bowls around the house so that your pet can easily get to it with ease.
Do you have a senior dog? Read more on which pet insurance is best for older dogs.