Senior Care for Pets
Senior pets need special care that caters to their aging bodies. Even though aging takes a toll on your pet, it doesn’t mean that their quality of life has to be poor. At Manzini Animal Hospital, we pride ourselves on creating a senior wellness program that keeps your loyal companion happy and healthy through their golden years.
When is my pet considered a senior?
Seniority may differ based on breeds in some pets. For example, bigger breeds of dogs are considered seniors from age 5 or 6, while smaller breed dogs are classified as seniors between 8 and 10-years-old. Meanwhile, cats are generally considered seniors from 8-years-old. Even if your pet falls into any of these ages they may fall into different seniority levels. To learn more about what seniority level your pet falls in, call us at 250.724.4444.
My pet is greying around the chest. Is this a sign that they may be considered a senior?
Yes! Greying around the chest, muzzle and on top of the head are signs that your pet is getting older. The signs don’t show up overnight, but with regular inspection of your pet you may notice some slight changes. You should always inform your veterinarian of any changes you notice. Other signs to look out for are:
What are common health issues in senior pets?
Seniors are more prone to developing illness which is why we strongly encourage routine veterinary exams to catch underlying issues and determine your pet’s baseline health levels. Once baseline health is established, we can compare test results to the ones we get during their senior years. Our hospital regularly treats senior pets for diabetes, hormone disorder, cancer, dementia and arthritis. Your pet has a better chance of fighting the disease if it is caught in the earlier stages so you should have them checked at least once every year.
