Best Practices to Elevate Senior Pet Care

Every stage of your pet’s life is unique, and has its own set of age-specific guidelines that help them thrive. The approach to kitten or puppy care doesn’t have the same impact on older pets, and vice-versa. We tailor every pet’s care plan to meet the individual needs of their age, breed, lifestyle, and medical history. If you’ve known your pet since they were a puppy or kitten, you’ve likely adjusted your day-to-day routine to ensure that they are well provided for in their senior years. Senior pet care is a rewarding priority that can influence quality of life and longevity. 

Long-Lasting Effect

Your pet’s health history has an incredible bearing on their future wellness. Preventive care practices established early in life have a huge effect on their lifespan, but also plays a part in how comfortable they are as they age. We believe that an awareness of and adherence to senior pet care considerations can make all the difference. 

Happy and Healthy

Depending on your pet’s overall health, we may recommend increasing their yearly wellness exam to every six months. This typically occurs after the age of 6 or 7 years old, depending on breed. 

Since they age seven times faster than we do, pets benefit from early detection of common age-related diseases. When caught early, treatment can be more effective and less costly. If an illness or injury persists without veterinary attention, emergency care is a common outcome. 

The opportunity to see, test, and treat any age-related problems before they get out of hand can help ease any pain, and get your pet back to their routine faster. 

The Role of Diagnostics

Typically, routine blood work and other diagnostics, such as urinalysis, help us determine a pet’s true health. Combined with observations of appearance and behavior, we can zero-in on the best possible ways to support senior pet care. We compare present diagnostic results with previous values to understand any changes and refocus a course of appropriate, health-centered action. 

Let’s Talk About Teeth

The majority of senior pets have periodontal (gum) disease. At every wellness exam, we look at the teeth and gums. Because plaque and tartar are responsible for periodontal disease, we recommend yearly professional cleanings (under anesthesia) and X-rays to learn more about potential damage beneath the gum line. Left alone, periodontal disease can also affect the health of the heart, liver, and kidneys. 

Aches and Pains

A major component of senior pet care is the treatment of aches and pains caused by osteoarthritis. Symptoms can be aggravated by increased weight. If applicable, we may try to treat arthritis and obesity at the same time. 

At-home practices can involve ramps, pet steps, orthopedic bedding, and the reduction of drafts or slippery surfaces. We may prescribe pain medication, dietary changes, or supplementation to help relieve pain.  

Senior Pet Care, Always

Staying in front of age-related conditions elevates senior pet care, and our team is always here to help owners recognize the changing needs of pets as they age. Together, we can help a pet live the longest, healthiest, and happiest life possible. 

Contact Yorba Linda Pet Care Center to schedule an appointment for your senior pet. We are here for every stage of your pet’s life.