Geriatric care that evolves with your pet keeps them frisky for life
While aging itself is not a disease, Bloomfield Animal Hospital acknowledges this cycle of life in all we do, and our team in Lakewood, California, prioritizes geriatric care. Just as you have different needs with advancing age, the needs of your dog or cat also evolve over time. “End of life” does not mean a specific set of options or a procedure within a specified timeframe. Your pet and circumstances are unique and special. As such, the recommendations that we make are one of a kind. They all, though, are recommended with the comfort and well-being of your buddy at heart and center.
When is a pet considered to be “geriatric”?
Senior cats are generally 10 years or older. With dogs, it’s less straightforward. How dogs develop and reach certain milestones varies depending on factors such as their size and breed. Typically, those breeds that are bigger and weigh more age differently than small-breed, lower-weight dogs. Based on their age and size, your dog may be considered a senior:
- Between the ages of eight and nine years for small or “toy” breeds under 20 pounds
- Between the ages of eight and 10 years for mid-sized breeds up to 49 pounds
- At either eight or nine years for large-breed dogs up to 90 pounds
- At either six or seven years for giant-breed dogs weighing more than 90 pounds
How often should my senior pet visit you?
The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends that senior pets visit the vet at least once every six months for their “well” exams. All of our in-house wellness plans for adult dogs include a bi-annual comprehensive physical exam. These visits may go into greater depth as your pet ages, due partly to the age-related conditions that can arise. The interventions we suggest address these problems so your pet remains happier and healthier for longer.
What conditions is my older pet at risk of developing?
A few of the conditions that tend to develop over time include:
- Heart disease
- Kidney problems
- Urinary tract dysfunction
- Arthritis, especially among bigger dogs
- Liver disease
- Diabetes
- Senility, cognitive dysfunction, and behavioral changes
- Cancers
“Warning” signs associated with common heart, kidney, and urinary tract conditions include a lack of appetite, increased thirst, little to no urination, frequent “accidents” in the house, vomiting, coughing, poor exercise tolerance, lackluster coat, mouth sores, and respiratory issues. Some of these symptoms are also associated with cancer, the risk of which increases as your pet ages. There may also be lumps or sores that never seem to heal, and unexplained swelling or lameness.
A range of conditions can also present as behavioral changes; for instance, a formerly silent cat that suddenly “talks” all the time, or a highly social dog that suddenly retreats to a quiet corner and no longer desires to react with its fellow animal or human companions.
How can I manage conditions/symptoms in my older pet?
Due to our advanced geriatric care, many of these problems can be managed or even resolved.
For the utmost comfort of your pet with diagnosed illnesses or comorbidities, we may recommend:
- Diets and supplements prescribed to meet your buddy’s caloric and health needs – New dietary/nutritional support may be easier for an older pet with a pre-existing condition to digest.
- Exercise suggestions that stimulate their physical bodies and minds – Appropriate exercises can help keep your pet mentally active and mobile.
- Lifestyle and home modifications, such as products to help your pet safely navigate steps
- Over-the-counter products and anti-inflammatory drugs can ease pain caused by conditions like joint damage and arthritis.
Your pet’s quality of life depends on factors like pain, the ability to eat enough and stay hydrated, expressions of joy or interest, and mobility. Bloomfield Animal Hospital works with you to address all of those challenges to ensure your pet’s best health and overall well-being. If you have noticed a concerning change in your pet or are overdue for a wellness check, contact our Lakewood, CA team today at (562) 383-7788.
