Geriatric Visits and Senior Pet Care
As pets progress through life, their healthcare needs change. Older pets have weaker immune systems and are much more susceptible to contracting contagious diseases. They are also at risk of developing chronic, age-related illnesses. Pets are considered seniors once they reach the age of seven. At this age, we recommend beginning bi-annual wellness exams to ensure the early detection and treatment of age-related illnesses.
Common Age-Related Diseases in Pets
Aging pets are at risk of developing the following health problems:
- Arthritis
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Glaucoma
- Heart, kidney, and liver disease
- High or low blood pressure
- Hormone and thyroid problems
- Infection
- Metabolic problems
- Tumors
Although senior pets are more prone to illness than their younger counterparts, they are just as likely to instinctively hide their pain and discomfort. It is important to keep a close eye on your pet’s habits and behaviors, looking for potential signs of illness. These might include:
- Limited mobility
- Decreased activity
- Appetite or weight changes
- Behavioral changes
- Incontinence
- Growths
- Poor hearing
- Loss of eyesight
What to Expect During Your Senior Pet's Appointment
Geriatric pet care encompasses four primary categories of treatment to maintain your pet’s quality of life:
- Health Screening – In addition to a complete physical examination, senior pets also receive routine diagnostic testing designed to evaluate organ function and detect early signs of disease.
- Pain Management – We use medications, cold laser therapy, and a variety of other treatments to help you manage your pet’s pain and the underlying problems that cause pain in old age.
- Mobility Preservation – We can provide a variety of treatments and therapies to help preserve your pet’s ability to stay active.
- Wellness Promotion – Using nutritional counseling and dietary supplements, we will help you promote your pet’s systemic wellness.
Schedule a Senior Pet Appointment Today
Geriatric veterinary care is specially designed to address an elderly cat or dog’s specific health needs. Our senior pet care focuses on maintaining your pet’s quality of life throughout the golden years, in addition to providing guidance and counseling to pet owners responsible for caring for senior pets.
We recommend senior pets visit our office every six months to ensure early diagnosis and prompt treatment of diseases and developing conditions. With most age-related diseases, early treatment is key to managing symptoms and limiting the disease’s progression. To schedule your senior cat or dog an appointment, contact our office today.
