Opening your heart to an old, new friend is a challenging yet fulfilling experience. Looking after a senior pet you just met can be a slow and tender process. It would be best to keep things in mind as you introduce yourself and your household (other pets included) to your new senior member of the family. Let’s look at how to care for your senior pet and the conditions you might need to pay attention to.
Giving Your Senior Pet a Warm Welcome
It takes preparation to properly take care of your senior pet. Although they will adjust independently and at their own pace, you need to set out the plan to support the senior pet living in your house. Before bringing the cuddly buddy home, make sure you readied the following.
A Senior-Friendly Space
A quiet space to be alone, a comfy bed, and a water dish within reach are some of the things that should be ready for your new pet’s homecoming. Ensure that the floors are not too slippery and that the bathroom area is easily available. Also, ensure no obstacles are present to prevent mishaps or physical fatigue.
Introduction to Other Pets
Pets are territorial. Cats and dogs might both exhibit aggressiveness when there is someone new. Your senior pet will not appreciate the unwanted tension, so plan how you can gently introduce them to your tribe.
Senior Diet
Nutritional needs change at certain ages. Talk to a veterinarian first to get recommendations and guidance on pet diets. Diets are not one-kind-fits-all; you can discover more about your pet’s needs as the days progress.
Grooming Assistance
As dogs and cats get older, their fur changes. It loses density and gloss, which can cause matting and other problems. Your senior pet feline might no longer be as flexible to groom itself. Be ready for brushing sessions during cuddle time.
Regular Exercise
Although they are not as bouncy as they used to be, they still need to move. Schedule short daily walks, or you can prepare an area where they can move. Their joints might not be cooperative as before, but they still need physical and psychological stimulation daily.
Common Medical Conditions to Expect
Degenerative issues will come. Do not be surprised when visits to the veterinarian get more frequent. The best way to keep their health is the bi-annual health check, but be ready to go when other issues happen.
Eye Issues
Glaucoma, cataracts, or complications of diabetes are most common in senior pets. If you notice them bumping, losing balance, or having eye discharge, it might be time to see the veterinarian. Eye issues worsen rapidly, so do not let them go untreated. Veterinary ophthalmology is being offered in vet hospitals so you can get your pet the help it needs.
Hearing Problems
When your pet shows signs of anxiety or disobedience, the odds are that hearing is already impacted. Although hearing problems are irreversible, you can start teaching hand signs to make it possible for communication.
Skin Diseases
Skin gets thinner as animals get older. Also, as the body’s immune system gets weaker, pets may be unable to ward off infections. When you discover something irregular on your pet’s skin, see the veterinarian immediately to manage the situation. Learn more about common skin problems to be able to address issues immediately.
Oral Diseases
This is common in senior pets, so be watchful for plaque buildup, gingivitis, and tooth decay. These can cause lots of problems, including weight loss and bacterial infections. Go to a reliable vet hospital and check their dental services to ensure your pet’s oral health is taken care of.
Arthritis or Joint Problems
Lack of movement or flexibility problems are caused by arthritis or joint pains. Ask the veterinarian about non-invasive treatments for pain, such as acupuncture and cold laser therapy, to let them enjoy their remaining years pain-free.