Senior Pet Care
How your pet's needs change.
Advances in veterinary medicine have made it possible for pets of all kinds to live long, healthy lives. However, when they become seniors, they require extra attention and medical care which is why it’s important to understand how their needs change as they age.
Generally speaking, cats and dogs are considered seniors at 11-years-old and 7-years-old, respectively. At this age, your elderly pet will need regular physical exams, vaccines, dental care, and lab work such as:
- Senior Wellness Panel 8- 12 Years An annual comprehensive internal organ screen (Chem 18), thyroid testing, and CBC red and white cell counts. Every 6 months - Complete Urinalysis - older dogs are prone to urinary incontinence, bladder stones, and urinary infections. Bring a first-morning urine sample to each annual exam.
- Geriatric Health Panel 13+ years A comprehensive internal organ screen (chem 18) including thyroid testing, electrolytes red and white cell counts, and a urinalysis. Chest and abdominal x-rays for cancer screening. EKG for heart disease.
Some conditions that typically affect senior pets include:
- Arthritis
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Dementia
- Thyroid imbalances
- Behavioral changes
- Mobility issues
- Kidney, heart, and liver disease
- Tumors and cancer
Luckily, many age-related health conditions can be prevented or managed via medication and/or treatment. Our goal is to keep your pet happy and healthy well into their golden years and we can do that by addressing their needs on an individual basis.
If you have questions about how often we should see your elderly pet or you’d like to schedule an appointment, please call us at (651) 456-5665.
