Senior Pet Care: Promoting Health in Their Golden Years
Senior pets require additional attention and TLC to keep them pain-free, active, and enjoying a full life. The Pet Hospital of Madison will work with you to provide the high-quality care your senior pet needs.
Excellent Care for Your Old Friend
As is the case with humans, more health issues arise in elderly dogs and cats. Because pets also hide their pain and illness as a defense mechanism, recognizing illness and disease early is a challenge.
We recommend your pet be seen for physical exams twice a year as seniors to better track changes in their condition. We may recommend additional lab work so our veterinarians can catch subtle changes in health and help you provide ongoing support to avoid larger issues. Catching and treating diseases early results in better recovery and is typically much less expensive.
Conditions Frequently Seen in Senior Dogs and Cats Include:
- Arthritis and other joint problems
- Skin conditions
- Kidney disease
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Thyroid and adrenal issues
Arthritis in Senior Pets
According to the Arthritis Foundation, one in every five dogs in the United States is affected by arthritis. In aging pets, arthritis is one of the most common sources of chronic pain treated by veterinarians. Your veterinarian at The Pet Hospital of Madison will create a treatment plan to address areas of concern specific to your dog or cat. These may include:
- Weight Loss—Shedding some weight is often a first step in helping ease your pet’s arthritis issues.
- Nutrition Support—Glucosamine and other nutritional supplements in conjunction with other medication regimens.
- Medication—Analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications are used for pain relief and the restoration of mobility.
Through proper treatment, many pet owners report that the pet resumes activities and begins to behave as he or she did when young.
Support Your Pet Through Their Golden Years
Age targeted care can help your dog or cat live a longer, more comfortable life. Call us at (256) 232-2289 to book their next senior care appointment.
