Elderly pets require extra special care. This article is going to explain how their needs differ from a younger pet’s needs.
Exercising Senior Pets
Younger pets can handle more exercise than senior pets. In fact, those youngsters probably need more physical activity to burn off all their energy.
But a senior pet’s body can’t hold up to intense exercise. In addition, older pets don’t have as much energy.
That doesn’t mean they should sit on the couch all day. Senior pets still need a regular exercise routine. Just be sure to match your pet’s routine to his or her capabilities.
Feeding Senior Pets
Most younger pets require more calories than older pets. Oftentimes, senior pets have slower metabolisms. You will need to reduce your aging pet’s calories in order to prevent obesity.
However, some elderly pets lose weight. Those pets require an increase in calories.
Health
The older your pet gets, the more likely your furry friend will develop health problems.
This can include:
- Heart disease
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Cancer
Take your senior pet to the veterinarian twice per year. Your veterinarian will examine your pet to make sure everything is working properly.
Don’t miss these appointments even if your pet appears to be fine. It’s better to detect a disease in its early stage, rather than finding out about it later.
Home Life
Younger pets typically don’t have trouble getting around but senior pets can. If your pet is struggling to get up the steps, provide a ramp.
Your pet might also have trouble navigating your home in other ways. If you notice this happening, you will need to determine how to accommodate your pet.
Senior pets require a little extra TLC, but we think you will agree that your faithful friend deserves it!
Listen to the Senior Pet Podcast to learn more about caring for your senior pet.