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Health Changes You May Notice in Your Senior Pet (and What to Do About Them)

Are you noticing that your medical care needs are changing as you get older? Well, the same goes for your pet as they age! Whether you have a dog or a cat, you’ll need to start paying closer attention to their health and adjusting their care routine as they get older. Here’s how your pet’s veterinary care needs change as they get older and how you can adjust to ensure your pet stays healthy.

Lower Activity Levels

One thing you may notice as your pet gets older is that they start to slow down. This decrease in activity levels can be due to a number of factors, including pain from arthritis or other age-related conditions. This is why it’s important to keep an eye on your pet’s activity levels and talk to your veterinarian if you notice any changes that seem concerning.

Your veterinarian can help you create a treatment plan to keep your pet comfortable and help them maintain their quality of life. This may include things like pain medication, supplements, changes in diet, or exercise modifications.

Different Nutritional Needs

Just like people, as pets age, their nutritional needs change. Older pets are more likely to be overweight or obese, so it’s important to feed them a diet that is lower in calories and fat. You may also need to adjust the amount of protein in their diet as they start to experience muscle loss.

Your veterinarian can help you create a nutritional plan that is right for your pet’s individual needs. They can also recommend specific pet foods that are formulated for older pets, which will be easier for them to digest and absorb.

If you have any concerns about your pet’s health as they age, be sure to contact your veterinarian to schedule a check-up. They can conduct a thorough medical examination and help you devise a care plan to keep your pet feeling their best for years to come.