Ageing is an inevitable process. Just like humans, pets suffer from multiple problems that arise with increasing age. For us, ageing is a slow and gradual process. However, this is not the case with pets. For them, it’s a lot quicker! Let's take a look at seven simple ways to care for your ageing pet.
Certain physical and behavioural changes are linked with ageing.
The major signs that your pet is likely to show include restricted mobility, arthritis, deterioration in hearing, reduced sight, and cognitive decline.
They also become more vulnerable to diseases such as kidney and liver problems, heart problems, and obesity. These types of challenges can be made easier by incorporating certain strategies into their care routine.
Here are some ways to care for your ageing pet that will help to keep your old pet be healthy and happy:
1. Maintain a Healthy Diet
Dietary changes can help improve the quality of senior pets' lives. A well-balanced and healthy diet can decrease the chances of getting food-related health issues. There are many foods that assist with promoting longevity in pets. You can ask for an age-appropriate diet for your pet by consulting an animal naturopath or holistic Vet.
A balanced diet plan should include more fibre, more fresh raw food, and fewer carbohydrates and processed food. A diet high in fibre helps digestion while increased carbohydrates can lead to obesity and inflammation.
2. All-natural Supplements
All-natural supplements are a must in an ageing pet’s diet. Such as naturally occurring glucosamine for joints, chondroitin sulfate for cartilage health, omega 3, 6, and 9 found in hemp seeds and oil, and probiotics.
See PetWell’s all-Natural MOBILITY and THRIVE supplements that contain these beneficial ingredients and much more.
3. Oral Care
Keeping oral hygiene is important and should be part of the care routine of your pet from a very young age. However, it is usually neglected, and dogs, in particular, end up having fewer teeth as they age.
Regular brushing of your pet's teeth can help prevent periodontal diseases which make chewing difficult. If your dog does not enjoy brushing, giving them toys designed to clean their teeth is a great option.
Lack of cleaning can result in bad breath. Also, an infection of the gums could leak into the bloodstream making it fatal for your pet. Using professional help for cleaning teeth once a year is highly recommended.
4. Exercise Your Pet
Performing a physical activity is a tough task for older pets – more so dogs, due to low energy levels. Physical activity is crucial to maintain their ideal weight and to keep them physically fit. Taking them on small walks or going on adventures can keep them active and happy.
5. Well-being Exams with the Vet
It’s important to visit the Vet with your pet frequently for regular well-being checkups. Older pets are vulnerable to diseases like arthritis, cancer, organ failure, and diabetes. They should have regular blood tests, dental examinations, and hearing, and sight examinations.
With age, a weakened immune system makes them predisposed to serious ailments. Visiting the vet results in early detection and treatment of any disease which increases the chances of recovery. It is recommended to visit the vet twice a year.
6. Joint Pain and Arthritis
The chances of your pet, especially dogs, forming issues with joints and arthritis is highly likely.
Over time, your pet's joints deteriorate and cartilage reduces, causing friction between bones as they move. This can result in inflammation and arthritis and causes serious pain and discomfort for your fur baby.
You can help them by feeding your pet foods rich in anti-inflammatory properties such as blueberries cruciferous vegetables, fish, coconut, boswellia and turmeric just to mention a few
PetWell’s MOBILITY is a great way to supplement your pet's diet ensuring they are gaining all the benefits of anti-inflammatory ingredients.
7. Create a Stress-free Space
Ageing pets can experience high levels of anxiety. This can be due to their cognitive decline - causing them memory loss and confusion.
Reduced hearing and sight will also cause them a great deal of stress. The good news is they see the world through their nose, so they can still navigate their way around the home.
It’s important to ensure, they have a safe zone in the house. Somewhere clear of obstacles to avoid them hurting themselves. It’s also a good idea to have that space tucked in a corner. This avoids startling your pet when people are approaching from behind.
You may consider adding a calming supplement to your pet’s diet. PetWell’s CALM supplement has naturally occurring ingredients to assist with not only calming your pet but also replenishing the vitamins and minerals required to keep their immune system healthy.
Spend Quality Time With Your Fur Baby
Seeing your pet age can be difficult especially when you can see the physical signs of the decline. It can be stressful for you and your pet. The best thing you can do is ensure you spend quality time with them in a calm and safe environment.
Time spent with you will ease your pet’s anxiety, placing them in a state of love and appreciation. In addition, if they become hard of hearing and or seeing, having you near them will make them feel safe and secure.
We hope these seven ways to care for ageing pets have helped you with your beloved fur baby. Read more for Tips to Keep Your dog Healthy
Disclaimer: The entire contents of this email and website are not to be taken as medical advice. The team at Pet Squad Pty Ltd trading as PetWell encourages you to make your own pet healthcare decisions based on your research and in partnership with a qualified pet healthcare professional.
