Taking charge of your pet’s aging process enables you to give them the best possible quality of life. At Hôpital vétérinaire Taschereau, our team will offer guidance about caring for your faithful companion according to the various stages of their life.
At what age is my pet considered a senior?
Breed, size, genetics and lifestyle are all factors that influence how your animal ages. When cats turn nine, they are considered to be entering the mature phase of life. Dogs are considered seniors at seven years old. Cats generally have a longer life expectancy than dogs. They can sometimes even live to be 20 years old.
How often should I take my senior pet to the veterinarian?
We suggest seeing your veterinarian once or twice a year. In addition to the basic check-up, we do blood and urine tests to get a better picture of your pet’s health. Your daily observations related to your pet’s diet, weight, mobility, skin, fur and needs will help us do a better examination and prevent certain health problems.
Should I give special food according to the age of my pet?
It is important to give your pet food that is adapted to their age and lifestyle. With aging and less movement come different caloric needs. Your pet also needs different vitamins, which can be found in well-balanced food. Your veterinarian will be pleased to share dietary recommendations with you.
What are some common health problems for a senior cat?
For senior cats, osteoarthritis, diabetes, heart problems, kidney diseases, periodontal diseases, cataracts, cancer, obesity and hyperthyroidism are the most commonly treated problems.
What are common health problems for a senior dog?
For senior dogs, osteoarthritis, diabetes, heart problems, kidney diseases, periodontal diseases, cataracts, cognitive dysfunction, cancer, obesity and hyperthyroidism are the most commonly treated problems.
My cat is urinating outside the litterbox. Is this a behavioural problem?
This behaviour is often related to a health problem. Cats suffer in silence from stiff joints, and the need to go up and down stairs to get to their litterbox may explain this unwelcome behaviour. You should be able to solve the problem by placing the litter on the level of the house where your cat spends most of their time. But if you notice that your cat is drinking more often than usual or if there is a lot of urine in the litter, it may be a sign of another health problem. In that case, consult your veterinarian as soon as possible.