As your cat or dog gets older, changes happen. They may be more lethargic, less inclined to play, and even experience personality changes. When your pet ages, you need to be prepared to change your cat and dog care habits as well. Waipio Pet Clinic in Waipahu on the island of Oahu provides animal wellness treatments for pets of all ages.

These veterinarians have some helpful tips for keeping your furry friends healthy and happy as they grow older:

• Change Their Diet: Once your pet reaches a certain age, you should change from a general food to one specifically designed for senior pets. This age depends on your pet’s species and breed. One of the main reasons behind the diet change is that pets typically don’t require as many calories as they age, which means that you risk pet obesity if you don’t switch the food amount or type. In addition to calories, dog and cat food that is formulated for older animals typically contains different nutrients designed to combat the ailments of older pets, such as fatty acids like EPA or DHA, which studies have shown are good for treating arthritis.

• Remember Exercise: Your pet likely isn’t going to be as enthusiastic about playtime in its old age, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect exercise altogether. By going for a daily walk, even a brief one, you can help your dog fight obesity and maintain healthy muscles. Be careful not to overload your pet with a sudden change in exercise habits. Work your way slowly to a healthy routine, and consult with a vet before any drastic changes to cat or dog care.
• Watch For Warning Signs: As dogs and cats age, the risk of illness and disease increases. Periodically inspect your pet’s body for alarming lumps or growths, check their teeth for decay, and watch for general signs that your pet is uncomfortable. If your dog is hesitant to walk or steps gingerly when forced to walk, it’s a sure sign of joint issues such as arthritis.
• Schedule Regular Vet Visits: The first step to animal wellness is awareness of problems, which is why you should take them to a vet on a regular basis. While an annual visit might be sufficient for young dog care, the frequency of vet visits will likely change as your pet gets older and starts exhibiting more ailments. More than just prevention of new problems, periodic vet visits are vital for keeping your senior pet comfortable and pain-free.  

Show your senior dog or cat how much you love them by getting serious about animal wellness. Waipio Pet Clinic can help you assess your pet’s health and develop a senior cat or dog care plan that encompasses the best diet, exercise, and medicine to keep your pet healthy for years to come. To schedule a vet visit, call (808) 676-2205 or learn more about their services by visiting the website.