As pets age, their bonds with their owners only grow stronger and more affectionate. Along with your continued love and support, your companion will require special care tailored to their changing needs. Use the guide below to provide the best possible pet care for your senior cat or dog.

How to Care for an Elderly Pet

1. Adjust Their Diet

Senior dogs and cats require a high-quality diet formulated to match their age and lifestyle. If your pet is becoming heavy, talk to your veterinarian about putting them on a special diet. A reduced-calorie intake will help prevent health problems that follow obesity. Severe weight loss, on the other hand, is another problem altogether. A too-thin senior pet may need a nutritional supplement and extra calories to remain healthy.

2. Keep Them Active

Your elderly pet may prefer to laze around the house all day, but they need exercise. Daily workouts will help maintain their weight and keep their muscles and joints strong. Continue to take senior dogs out for walks and to play fetch, and keep cats running with interactive toys, but avoid overexerting them.

3. Stimulate Their Mind

Senior pets may exhibit signs of senility. Keep your pet’s mind sharp with regular stimulation and interactions. Puzzle toys with healthy treats hidden inside entertain and engage cats and dogs of all ages. Contrary to popular belief, old dogs can learn new tricks. Teach new commands to your pet to exercise their ability to listen, focus, and learn.

4. Assist With Mobility

Older pets can’t move the way they did when young. To accommodate their mobility needs and prevent injuries, move furniture and pet supplies as necessary. Clear paths to food and water dishes, litter boxes, and beds. If your companion loves sitting on a favorite sofa they can no longer climb onto, invest in a pet ramp.

5. See the Vet More Often

Health issues develop much more quickly in very young and old animals. Increase veterinary clinic visits to twice a year or more as needed. Frequent visits allow veterinarians to catch health concerns early and provide appropriate senior pet care and treatment your companion needs.

If your senior pet is due for a checkup, take them to see the compassionate team at Dothan Animal Hospital in Houston County, AL. Since 1943, this veterinary hospital has offered exceptional pet care and comprehensive health services to cats and dogs throughout the Tri-State area. Their veterinarians are committed to providing up-to-date information, helpful advice, and clear instructions to owners to ensure pets live longer and healthier lives. Visit their website for more information about their services. To schedule an appointment, call (334) 793-9779.