You love your animals and do your best to keep them healthy, but unfortunately, aging catches up with every living creature—including the healthiest dogs and cats. By knowing the signs of aging and taking your animals in for wellness testing, you can protect their happiness and comfort. Here are four commonly asked questions about aging pets. 

Your Geriatric Pet Questions Answered

When are animals considered old? 

Animals age more rapidly than humans, which can make it difficult to gauge how old your pet really feels. However, as a general rule of thumb, a cat that is 7 years old feels about 54, and a dog that is 7 years old can feel between 44 to 56 years old. Keep track of when your animal celebrates a birthday, and talk with your veterinarian about the wellness testing they need for their age. 

Wellness testing is recommended every 6 months for older pets, and consists of a physical exam, a series of blood tests, parasite screenings, and a urinalysis. These preventative exams are comfortable for your pet, and can help to detect illnesses in their earliest stages, making it possible to treat your animal proactively. 

What kinds of health problems are common in older animals?

Animals can experience many of the same health problems humans do when they age, including arthritis, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and even senility. The older your animal is, the more likely they are to struggle with health problems. 

What are the signs of problems?

The signs of an aging, ill pet can vary significantly from animal to animal, which is why wellness testing is so important. Older pets should be screened for symptoms like fatigue, confusion, and changes in aggression by a professional veterinarian. If you notice changes in your animal’s behavior, mention it to your vet right away. 

How can I help my animal to stay healthy? 

To keep your animal healthy well into their older years, focus on feeding them a healthy diet and encouraging them to exercise. Additionally, talk with your vet about the vaccinations and treatments that can prevent illness. 

Your animal’s needs will change over time, which is why it is so important to stay on top of their physical health. If you have noticed changes in your animal, turn to the team at Alexandria Pike Animal Hospital in Southgate, KY. In addition to offering wellness testing and preventative treatments, these experienced veterinary specialists can also help with emergency visits, boarding, and even dental care for your animals. Learn more by visiting them online, or give them a call at (859) 781-1800.