You want your pet to enjoy a long, healthy life by your side. Part of making that happen is ensuring they receive high-quality veterinary care throughout their lives. But did you know that your pet’s veterinary care needs will change as they age? Here’s what you need to know..
Dietary Needs
As your pet enters their senior years, they may start to experience changes in their appetite. They may become more or less hungry than usual, and their food preferences may change. It’s important to talk to your veterinarian about any changes in your pet’s eating habits, as these can be indicative of underlying health problems. Your veterinarian can recommend a diet that’s tailored to your pet’s changing needs, which may include more or fewer calories and specific nutrients.
Activity and Exercise
As your pet ages, they may become less active and lose interest in exercise. This is normal, but it’s important to make sure your pet is still getting some form of exercise to maintain their health. Your veterinarian can recommend an activity and exercise plan that’s appropriate for your pet’s age and health condition.
Veterinary Checkups
It’s important to take your pet to the veterinarian for regular checkups, even if they seem healthy. That’s because many health problems can develop without obvious symptoms in the early stages. Senior pets may need to see the veterinarian more often than younger ones. Your veterinarian will let you know how often your pet should come in for checkups and wellness visits.
Dental Care
Dental care is important for pets of all ages, but it becomes even more important as they get older. That’s because older pets are more likely to develop dental problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Be sure to brush your pet’s teeth regularly and take them to the veterinarian for annual dental checkups.
To ensure your pet enjoys a long, healthy life, it’s important to keep up with their changing veterinary care needs. If you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health, please don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian.
