Our dogs and cats need more attention as they get older to stay healthy and happy. Like people, senior dogs and cats go through a variety of physical changes that require extra care. We can help our pets live peacefully into old age by being aware of these changes and offering the appropriate care.
Here are a few quick yet powerful ideas to maintain the happiness and health of your senior pets through senior pet care routines and the right nutrition, including senior dog food supplements.
Keep your senior pet healthy with these tips
Regular vet checkups
For ageing pets, one of the best things is visiting a veterinarian for regular checkups. This is because, as they grow older, they are likely to get sick more. Among the common health issues are arthritis, dental problems, and heart disease. The checkups will help detect such conditions early.
Vets often recommend that senior pet care include a check-up every six months. Your vet may recommend senior dog supplements, blood work, dental exams, and dietary changes that support your pet’s health as they age.
Nutritional support
As your pets get older, their dietary needs change. When they reach their senior years, many pets need specially formulated diets that help improve joint health, aid digestion, and provide a cat immune support supplement for immune function. You should typically find senior dog food supplements with high-quality ingredients and natural sources of vitamins and minerals.
Choose foods that have Omega-3 and antioxidants which help improve mobility, skin health, and cognitive function. However, consult your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet.
Gentle exercise
Although senior pets are not as active as they once were, regular physical activity and the right senior dog food supplements are very important to keep the pet's weight in check and avoid stiffness in the joints. For dogs, short and gentle walks and for cats play sessions help in developing healthy joints and general mobility.
Interactive toys or food puzzles can also keep your cat or dog engaged and encourage them to move around. This helps manage weight and minimise the risk of arthritis.
Joint health
Ageing pets are likely to experience joint problems, especially large dog breeds and some cats. Supplements with glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids contribute to supporting healthy joints, decreasing stiffness, and increasing mobility.
Ensure any joint supplements for dogs and senior cat supplements are veterinarian-recommended and compliant with Australian pet food regulations and avoid unproven claims.
Dental care
Dental problems can cause pain, infection, and eating difficulties for ageing pets. Therefore, brush regularly or offer dental chews for good oral health.
If brushing isn’t feasible, ask your vet about professional dental cleanings. This helps prevent gum disease and ensures your pet’s mouth stays healthy.
Comfort at home
As pets get older, they may need some changes in their living environment. See to it that their bed is comfortable and provides joint support. Pet ramps or steps can assist your dog or cat in reaching furniture if they have difficulty jumping. For cats, switch to low-entry litter boxes so they can easily access them.
It is also important to keep their environment familiar and free of stress. Avoid loud noise and keep a consistent routine to help your pet feel secure. Also, make sure to give them the right vitamins for cat and dog.
Weight management
Additional weight can stress an ageing pet’s joints and make conditions like arthritis worse. Moreover, senior pets generally require fewer calories, so watch for overfeeding. Consult your veterinarian about special senior diets that help manage weight.
Cutting back on treats and using healthier low-calorie senior dog treats and cat treats can also aid in maintaining your pet at a healthy weight.
Mental stimulation
It's important to keep your ageing pet's mind engaged. They can be given puzzle toys, treat-dispensing games, or teach them some new tricks. This keeps your pet interested and is an excellent way to maintain normal cognitive processes. It also lowers the chance of age-related cognitive decline.
Using interactive feeders or switching up their toys can entertain and cognitively challenge cats. Treat-based activities like hide-and-seek or training exercises are excellent choices for dogs.
Make the most of your pet’s senior years!
With regular vet visits, the right vitamins for elderly dogs and cats, gentle exercise, yummy and healthy treats from the Wonderfur Company, and mental stimulation, you can contribute to enhancing the quality of life for your ageing cat or dog. Keep in mind each pet is different. So consult your veterinarian before making any major changes to your routine or introducing new supplements.
By following these simple tips, you can help your beloved pet age gracefully. They'll be healthy in their golden years.
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