Aging is a normal aspect of our lives. Pets and felines, just like humans, experience mental and physical changes as they get older. Their muzzles become gray as they get older, and the quality of their coats declines, resulting in the loss of hair and white hairs on their skin. Eyes can turn hazy or blue, or even pearl-like.
Older dogs and cats develop fat and lose muscle. As they age, their caloric requirements tend to decline. A large part of this is due to their biological and a large part is due to their sleeping patterns and are less active. Many elderly pets do not have the fitness and play endurance they had in their younger years.
Health Problems in Old Pets
Age also raises the risk of your pet being afflicted with several health issues. Visiting your veterinarian regularly allows you to address any changes you’ve noticed in your pet and identify any problems before they become more serious. Five conditions are prevalent in older pets.
1. Heart Problems
Senior dogs and cats frequently have heart issues. Cardiomyopathy, a condition involving muscles of the heart, is one of the most common conditions that could affect cats. In dogs, congestive heart failure is a prevalent heart disease that can affect the ability of the heart to pump blood. Coughing, trouble breathing, weakness, and vomiting are a few of the signs of heart disease. Do not hesitate to call your doctor if you notice these symptoms.
You wouldn’t want to deal with these kinds of pet health issues in the future. The best way to avoid these issues is to have your pet undergo annual wellness examinations offered by reputable veterinary hospitals. To avail of such service, you can check this website https://www.michigananimalhospital.com/site/home.
2. Kidney Issues
The kidneys’ task is to flush out toxins from the body and keep it balanced. Toxins build up in the body when the kidneys fail, leading to kidney failure. This may be because of natural aging or kidney stones obstructing the urinary tract. Kidney stones have been connected to an increase in your pet’s water consumption and urination.
Contact your veterinary internist if you think your pet may be suffering from renal troubles. Early detection of renal illness can help your pet live a longer, healthier life.
3. Arthritis
In animals, osteoarthritis can be one of the leading causes of joint discomfort. A well-balanced diet and therapy may help alleviate the symptoms of arthritis and limit its development. Some signs include pain, limping, anxiety about stairs, difficulty getting up and walking, licking or chewing at the joint, and showing signs of discomfort upon being picked up. The best treatment to treat joint pain in your pet must be discussed with your vet if your pet displays symptoms of arthritis.
4. Lumps and Bumps
Senior animals could be at a greater risk of developing lumps and bumps, although they are not all cancerous. Pay attention to changes in weight, wounds that take a long time to heal, or changes in how you eat. It’s best to check for any new lumps immediately after you spot them.
If you spot any bumps on your pet’s body or if you have an urgent pet concern, contact the vet immediately or click here for emergency care services.
5. Dental Issues
The development of periodontal disease is prevented through good dental hygiene. It’s possible to detect a foul breath, increased drooling gum irritation, or loose teeth if your dog or cat has dental problems. This can also lead to weight loss, infection, and heart disease or renal damage. You can ensure that your pet’s gums and teeth remain healthy as they age by visiting your veterinarian for regular exams and educating them on good dental hygiene habits.