One big difference though is that our dogs and cats can't tell us what hurts or what isn't working as good as it used to. Your veterinarian can be a great source in determining your pet's needs as he begins to age, but you are even better. Pay attention, really get to know your dog or cat and observe the changes for there are many things you can do to insure these later years will be truly golden for your pets.
What Not to Do
As animals age, they often can’t “hold it,” and need more frequent bathroom breaks. Other times they have trouble remembering to ask to go out. Don’t lose patience with your loving and loyal companion. Instead, add another litter box to make it more convenient for your aging cat to get to her “facility.” A shallow box can help an arthritic cat climb in and out more easily. Schedule extra outside breaks for your dog even if you have to come home at lunch or install a doggie door to a secured yard. Pick up water bowls two hours before bedtime and take pets out before you call it a night. Reduce clean-up by lining pet beds with plastic. Help your pet and help yourself by doing things that will make for less clean-up.
What To Do
All dogs and cats should have a special place of their own, but senior pets in particular should have a bed in a draft- free, damp-free location – something they can easily get out of but that cushions their aching joints.
Elevating food and water bowls may aid in digestion and prevent pets from gulping excess air. It also lessens the strain on older bones by reducing how far they bend.
A dog with (or without) hearing loss must be protected by being kept on-leash when out of the house or yard. As senses dim, your pet won’t hear approaching traffic, children or other animals coming near. When startled he may snap or bite out of fear. Be aware of changes. Teach everyone to gently stomp their feet to create a vibration your pet can feel and call out when approaching a hearing or vision impaired pet. Use hand signals when your voice can no longer be heard; flick kitchen lights to teach your deaf pet that it’s time for dinner. Blind pets rely on memory, so avoid re-arranging the furniture and install baby gates to prevent a tumble down the stairs.
Internal changes can be detected by your veterinarian, so don’t skip an exam! One year in your pet’s life equals seven human years, so if you miss a check-up two years in a row, that’s comparable to a human not going to the doctor for 14 years! Early detection means early intervention!
Think of other ways you can help. If arthritis is making leaps painful for Fluffy, place a foot stool or chair under her favorite windowsill. If Rover cannot be on the go with you as much as in the past, make time for belly rubs and do whatever he can do…short walks or just being together. Senior pets do best when they know they are loved and are still a treasured part of the family, so learn all you can about in a Senior Pet Care Class and just really get to know your pet and his habits so that you can more quickly observe when something has changed.
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