All pets age, and as they do, they start to require special care. In this article, we’ll be going over senior pet care tips, and how you can care for them as they age. As your pets age, they have less energy, are prone to weight gain, and their kidneys or livers will start to deteriorate. From special diets, to catered exercises, we’ll explore how you can make life more comfortable and happier for your four-legged senior friends!

Diets For Senior Pets

Senior pets require specially catered diets as they age. For example, their protein intake should be reduced, as it can start to affect their deteriorating kidney function. They would also require less calories in their diets as they are prone to obesity when they get older. You can start switching your dog’s diet from 8 years old onward. For dogs, we recommend dry foods like Orijen Senior or Arden Grange Senior. We also recommend wet foods like Lily’s Kitchen Senior Recipe. For cats, we recommend Royal Canin Ageing 12+ or Lily’s Kitchen Senior Recipe. There is also wet food for senior cats available like Lily’s Chicken Pate for Mature Cats. 

Age Appropriate Exercise

As your pet gets older, their bones and joints tend to be more sensitive and since they are prone to weight gain and obesity, they’ll need exercise that is specially catered to their needs. Firstly, you’ll need to consult with your local vet as to how much physical activity your pet can handle. For dogs, take them on slow walks, pay attention to their energy levels and make sure to walk them early in the mornings before the sun rises, and after the sun sets to avoid overheating. You can also invest in interactive toys like the All For Paws Foldable Treat Mat or the PetGeek Rolling Treat Ball to get exercise indoors. For cats, the All For Paws Flutter Bug is ideal for interactive exercise, as well as wand and teaser toys that your cat can hunt and chase.  

Maintaining Dental Health

A vital step for senior pet care is maintaining your pets dental health. There are a number of ways you can help keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy. Ideally, you should brush your pet’s teeth between 2 - 3 times a week, using either Oxyfresh or Beaphar Tooth Gel with a toothbrush or finger brush. You could also use finger pads and wipes to clean your pet’s teeth. If your pet hates having their teeth brushed, you could use the Oxyfresh Water Additive, which has no taste or smell and could be added to their water. Another method of maintaining dental health is by chewing. Dental treats are an excellent method of cleaning your dog or cat’s teeth as they chew. You could also consider chew toys for dogs or dental mesh toys for cats. 

Make Sure They’re Comfortable

Older pets tend to develop arthritis as they age, and their bones and joints require a soft and comfortable sleeping area. You could set up a crate area for your pet, with a soft mattress like the MidWest QuiteTime Fleece Bed for them to sleep comfortably and safely. You could also invest in a soft bed to keep in a quiet corner like the MidWest QuiteTime Tulip Bed, which is available in different sizes to suit each pet breed. 

Another way that you can aid in their comfort is ensuring that they’re receiving the right supplements. Consider using Zeal Hoki Fish Oil to help boost their immune system and keep their brain and heart healthy. You could also use Yumove to help aid their bones and joints and promote better flexibility. This is especially helpful when your pet exercises or engages in physical therapy. We have a number of additional vitamins and supplements to help your pet maintain a healthy lifestyle, which will in turn help them feel more comfortable during their later life stages.

Schedule Regular Checkups

An important part of maintaining your senior pet’s health is taking them for regular checkups with your local vet. Your vet will be able to monitor their health, perform necessary tests to check that their organs are functioning correctly, and prescribe any medications that they may require. Your veterinarian will also be able to give you any additional information and advice for helping them stay happy and healthy. 

Schedule Regular Groomings

A clean pet is a happy pet! Older pets may struggle to groom themselves due to joint and arthritic constraints. Thankfully, we have a team of expert groomers who are experienced with handling senior pets with care. They will be able to help your pet maintain their coats and ensure your pet feels comfortable during summer seasons, and is clean year-round. Be sure to check out our grooming packages and schedule a regular “spa treatment” for your senior fur-babies. 

Spend Lots Of Time With Them!

We are certain that your pets feel their happiest when they are with their families! The best way to care for your senior pet is to give them as much love and attention as possible, with tons of cuddles! Dedicate time during your day towards playing with your pet, and cherish each moment you spend together. Your pet will feel much more comfortable, at ease and happier with you by their side!