For anyone with a pet, the senior years can be a unique time of companionship and special bonding with your furry friend. However, it’s also a time when careful consideration of your pet’s health is necessary. As your pet ages, its healthcare needs also change. Routine wellness checkups and specific assessments can help maintain good health and longevity.
Yet, as a pet owner, you might be pondering – what regular tests should your senior pet undergo?
What Should I Consider in My Senior Pet’s Wellness Exam?
Our pets need the same as we periodically go for a comprehensive medical checkup. As they age, they are susceptible to different health conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and dental diseases. Hence, understanding how to care for your senior pet and what to include in their wellness exam can save them from preventing common diseases associated with aging.
We will guide you on the elements of a comprehensive pet wellness exam to keep your aging companion sprightly and healthy.
Understand the Importance of Regular Blood Work
Observing your pet’s behavior is crucial, but it shouldn’t be the sole determinant of their health. Regular blood screenings can reveal your pet’s organ function and overall well-being. Veterinarians often recommend routine blood work to identify any changes early on. This practice allows for timely intervention and helps avoid unnecessary complications.
Pay Attention to Dental Health
Many pet owners overlook dental health until significant problems arise. Senior pets can develop dental diseases, leading to pain and discomfort, malnutrition, and systemic diseases. Regular dental checkups and cleaning should be integral to your pet’s wellness exam to maintain their oral health.
Monitor Body Weight
Unexpected weight loss or gain could be a symptom of underlying health problems in aged pets. A regular checkup weigh-in can help monitor your pet’s dietary consumption and address obesity-related health problems. Consulting with your vet can also help create an appropriate diet plan for your pet.
Prioritize Vision and Hearing Checks
With age, pets may experience diminished vision and hearing capabilities. Regular sensory health assessments can help detect issues before they become problematic. Doing this will make you well-informed and better prepared to make necessary adjustments to your pet’s home environment and care regimen.
Don’t Neglect Heart and Lung Exams
With senior age, pets become more vulnerable to heart and lung diseases. Regular examinations of these essential organs allow prompt detection and effective intervention. An early diagnosis can significantly enhance the quality and length of your pet’s life.
Consider the Right Time for Pet Geriatric Care
Identifying when to transition into specialized geriatric care can greatly impact your pet’s health and well-being. Generally, pets are considered seniors between the ages of 6 and 9, depending on breed and size. A veterinary geriatric care plan includes a thorough assessment of your pets’ physical and mental health, nutritional counseling, and a customized care plan.
Final Thoughts
Caring for a senior pet can initially seem overwhelming, but the bond it forms is truly priceless. Regular wellness exams, pertinent tests, and timely vet visits are the cornerstone of a healthy life for your senior pet. Consult your trusted veterinarian to provide the best care for your loved companion when in doubt. After all, our ultimate goal is to guarantee that your beloved pet lives a comfortable, healthy, and fulfilling life.