We can all agree that it is daunting to watch our furry friends turn grey and old before our eyes. In a flash, our once bouncy puppy or playful kitten has become a senior pet, slowing down, struggling to hear our voice and maybe even starting to develop a few extra lumps and bumps!
As our pets age, they can be prone to more health conditions and therefore require a lot more tender love and care. Our main priority here at Lynbrook Vet is to keep your pet comfortable and to ensure the continuation of their overall well-being and health as they reach seniorhood.
What is a senior pet?
- A dog is considered a senior when they are over 7 years of age
- A cat is considered a senior when they are over 10 years of age
What are common signs of ageing in dogs and cats?
- Changes in appetite
- Sudden weight loss or weight gain
- Decreased vision or hearing
- Difficultly getting up from rest, walking, running, playing and jumping
- Lack of energy and sleeping more often
- Behavioural changes including increased vocalisation, barking, whining, pacing, panting and disorientation
- Changes in hair coat and texture e.g. matted fur, thinning of coat, hair loss, changes in skin pigmentation, scabbing or flaking of the skin.
- Increased urination and water consumption
- Inappropriate toileting or lack of control over bowel motions and/or bladder
- Raised lumps and bumps on or underneath the skin
- Isolating themselves e.g. hiding under the bed, couch, in the wardrobe – this is particularly common in cats.
What are the most common senior pet health issues?
The most common issues we see arise in old cats and old dogs are:
- Osteoarthritis
- Renal failure or kidney dysfunction
- Hormonal disorders e.g. thyroid dysfunction, Cushings disease
- Liver disease
- Dementia
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Deafness and blindness
- Dental disease
- Skin lumps and bumps
- Cancer
What do we recommend for your senior pet?
At Lynbrook vet, we recommend performing routine health checks on our senior patients at least every 6-12 months. During these appointments we will perform a thorough and complete physical examination on your pet looking for signs of osteoarthritis, heart disease, lumps or growths around the body, dental disease and eye concerns such as cataract formation. Based on our examination, we may recommend a blood and urine test or even check your pet’s blood pressure to get a more accurate picture of their overall health status.
We will also take the time to advise you on any specific diet recommendations or exercise modifications for your pet, if required.
If you would like to book an appointment to discuss routine health monitoring, then do not hesitate to call the clinic and let us know, or book online here.
