An Essential Guide to Make Life Easier For Your Aging Pet

Maintaining good health becomes a little more complicated as your pet ages. It is much easier to tend to a puppy’s minor health problems than an aged pet’s. Just like humans, pets experience declines in their physical capabilities as they grow older, making it more difficult to care for them as they age properly. Such challenges include mobility, sight, hearing, and cognitive function, which can impact a pet’s quality of life and overall health.  

For a pet who is elderly or has one of these conditions, there are special considerations to take into account. However, don’t panic. There are ways to make the senior years comfortable and enjoyable for your furry friend. 

While every pet is different, the main thing you should be concerned with is their comfort and happiness.

Today, let's explore the most important things you should know about caring for an aging pet. Here is your simple but essential guide:

What are the Basic Needs of an Older Pet

You may notice that as your pet ages, they may not have the same enthusiasm for food as they did when they were younger. This is because their metabolism slowly decreases, making it harder for them to digest their food. Also, their usual dietary habits may change as your pet ages, including feeding less and more frequently. Of course, as always, it is essential to check with your veterinarian to determine their nutritional needs at any stage of their life.

Nutritious Food

As the metabolism slows down, it is harder for your pet to digest their food. To properly digest their food, they need high-quality food. High-quality food helps ensure your pet receives all the nutrients they need to promote their health and well-being. The main ingredients of high-quality food are protein, fats, carbohydrates, and fiber.

Aging can affect your pet's digestive system, leading to uncomfortable or potentially dangerous situations. An older pet may experience changes in the way they digest their food. These changes may lead to digestive issues such as vomiting and diarrhea. Also, as your pet ages, it is more important than ever to consult with your veterinarian regarding their diet. As your pet ages, the frequency of meals should increase, but the amount of food per meal should be reduced.

A Place to Sleep

As your pet grows older, it may become more difficult for them to get around physically. This can be frustrating, but you should do your best to keep them active and happy. A place to sleep is crucial for your pet to feel comfortable. Keeping your pet in their favorite spot, as long as it is safe and cozy, will help to keep them active and happy. Being familiar with their favorite spot will also help keep them comfortable.

Doing this may seem small, but if you notice that your pet is no longer using a favorite spot, get in touch with your veterinarian. There may be an underlying medical reason for choosing not to use their spot.

Exercise

While your pet ages, they should not be ignored. They should be loved and cared for as they did when they were younger. Pets need to be walked, and cats must be played with to help them stay active. And just like humans, exercising is good for your pet’s physical and mental health. It can help reduce stress, which many pets have as they age. And it can improve your pet's overall health and quality of life.

Grooming

Grooming can be another important part of helping your older pet age comfortably. As they age, they may experience changes in their fur or skin. If you notice these changes, don’t be alarmed. These changes are normal, and you can help by grooming them to make your pet comfortable.

Simple Toys and Treats

A simple way to make your pet feel loved and special is to play with them and give them treats! Playing with your pet, and giving them treats, helps to release the happy chemicals in your pet. It can be a very simple way to make your pet's day. You must remember, however, to avoid hard treats. Your pet will not be able to bite into them, which can lead to a choking hazard.

You can purchase many toys to help keep your pet active and happy. If your pet is a kitten or cat, there are other toys that you can purchase to keep them engaged and active. For example, a feather on a wand can be an excellent toy for your cat, or a laser pointer can keep your cat or dog engaged.

A Happy Environment

The most important thing you can do to help your older pet is to create a happy, comfortable environment. This can be done by allowing your pet to maintain their independence, giving them the proper attention, and helping them to remain active. Your pet should never be ignored as they age. They are still your best friend, and they need your love and attention.

Simple Tips to Ensure Your Pet is Happy and Comfortable

Regulate Temperature

A comfortable temperature is essential for your senior pet’s health and well-being. As they age, they may be more susceptible to cool or hot temperatures, or they may be less active. If you notice your pet has become lethargic and won’t move to another area, adjust their room temperature accordingly.

Spend Extra Time with Them

Your pet’s quality of life will greatly benefit from spending more time with you. They may not be up to running around with you as they age, but spending time with them will help them feel important. Being around you that extra bit can provide an increased sense of security and comfort that will make them happy.

Keep Them Active

Your pet should remain active as they age. If they are less active, they may begin to experience joint issues. These joint issues may make it difficult for them to move around and feel comfortable. As your pet ages, it is crucial to consider their activity levels. If they are not up to running around or playing, consider a pet walker or a pet sitter.

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The Bottom Line

As your pet ages, maintaining their comfort and happiness is on you. You can do this by making simple changes in their lifestyle and keeping them active. The most important thing to remember is that they are still your best friend. They need your love, attention, and care. Follow the simple tips in this article to help you and your pet age gracefully.

If you’re still figuring your way around paw care, we’d like to help you. EarthWise Pet Fremont is a grooming wellness spa and local pet store in Washington.  You can count on us to take good care of them. Our goal is to keep them as comfortable as possible, so let us know if there’s anything extra we can do to help!