The Web Pet Doctor
better information. better care
The definition of a senior pet is 7-8 years old for large breed dogs, 8-9 years
old for small breed dogs, and over 10 years old for cats. Generally, large breed
dogs live approximately 12-13 years, but can live to be 17. Small breeds live
slightly longer. Cats can live 20 years in some instances. A good, balanced diet
coupled with superior veterinary care can ensure your pet lives a long, healthy
life. Use the following guidelines along with your veterinarian's
recommendations-your pet will thank you!!
Medication Finder
Click here to get information
on commonly used
medication for your pet
Ever wondered if you could
use aspirin? Common
over-the-counter medicines
that can be used safely.
Have a minimum data base (blood work and urinalysis)
performed at your veterinarian's office every 6-12 months.
This is extremely important, as most animals hide illness until it
has become advanced. Doctors can catch disease in the early
stages and potentially treat.
Start your pet on a joint supplement. Any product that contains
glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are good choices. Some
animals will also need an antiinflammatory to help with arthritis
pain. It is best to start supplement BEFORE your pet is
showing signs. If your pet has already shown signs of arthritis
(slowing down, not jumping up, not greeting you), then you
may not have as great of results with the supplements. It can
take up to 6 weeks before the full benefits of joint supplement
are seen.
Every senior pet needs a senior diet. There are a lot of diets
on the market and you need to be choosy . For example, the
diet will be prescribed by your veterinarian if your pet has
diabetes, is overweight, or has intestinal disease. Any
manufacturer can state that their diet is a "senior" diet, so ask
your vet any recommendation he or she may have.
Discuss any abnormal behavior with your veterinarian, no
matter how minor it may seem. Increased drinking/urinating,
panting, chewing, limping, or lethargy can signal problems with
your pet.
Be sure to watch your pet's haircoat. As they age, they are not
as clean as they used to be, especially cats. Tell your vet if
your cat has stopped grooming or is becoming matted.
Every pet needs to have their teeth cleaned at least annually.
Humans are encouraged to have dental prophylaxis every 6
months, and we brush our teeth twice daily! Dental decay and
tooth abscesses are painful and unfortunately common.
Your pet may need thoracic and abdominal radiographs
performed every 6-12 months, along with an ECG and blood
pressure measurement. This can screen for arthritis, heart
disease, abdominal masses and cancer.