Pets are living longer than ever before because of advancements in the field of veterinary medicine and the appropriate senior pet care. However, as pets grow older, they become more prone to a wider range of health problems. Aging pets have unique medical demands, similar to their human counterparts.

A senior pet’s health plan must be developed in close cooperation between the owner and veterinarian. So let’s talk about the many veterinarian care options for an aging pet.

What Veterinary Services Does a Senior Pet Need?

Certain requirements for senior pets don’t apply to younger dogs and cats. As your pet grows older, you’ll need to change the way you care for it to keep your pet in good shape as it ages.

Here are some of the most common geriatric cat and dog care services your veterinarian will provide to senior pets:

Senior Health Examinations

One of the most vital acts pet owners can do to keep their senior pets healthy is to take them in for regular pet wellness exams in Carlsbad, CA. These checkups are crucial for dogs and cats as they reach their senior years. In order to uncover issues like organ failure and osteoarthritis early on, routine vet visits are an essential part of senior care. In addition, healthy senior dogs and cats must undergo a complete physical examination and laboratory tests every six months.

Laboratory Testing

To evaluate your pet’s health, veterinarians rely on laboratory findings. Lab work is helpful for establishing normal baseline levels when your pet is healthy. If your pet becomes ill, the veterinarian will tell whether or not the current test readings are abnormal by comparing them to the baseline levels.

Changes in these laboratory readings, even in a healthy animal, may show the presence of an underlying disease. In middle age, dogs and cats need to have laboratory testing at least once a year. Tests at the lab should be performed on older pets at least once every six months.

Parasite Prevention and Vaccination

Your dog or cat will undoubtedly spend less time exploring the outdoors as it ages. This will reduce their exposure to harmful parasites and contagious diseases. But that doesn’t mean you can relax just yet; an aging body’s immune system in pets indicates it will have a much harder time fighting off infections and recuperating from health problems. 

So ensure to stay up to date with your vet’s recommendations for parasite prevention and vaccinations, specifically for ticks, fleas, and heartworms. Additionally, inquire about the veterinary pharmacy products offered by your vet for health-enhancing prescription medications and vitamins for your senior pet.

Nutritional Diet

Many senior pets can benefit from eating food made specifically for their needs. Reduced physical activity and excessive feeding can lead to weight problems, which increases the risk of health complications like heart disease in older pets. If your senior pet needs a special type of food, you can speak with your vet for assistance.

Conclusion

Caring for an aging pet comes with new responsibilities and requires pet owners to adjust their approach to pet care. Senior pets have different medical requirements that need to be addressed to preserve their health and well-being. With proper veterinarian care, regular examinations, lab testing, parasite prevention, vaccination, and a nutritious diet, pet owners can help their aging pets live healthy and happy life.