Old age is not a disease, but it does change what your pet needs.
Watch for
Slowing on walks, difficulty with stairs or jumping, stiffness after rest, weight change, drinking more, confusion or night waking, lumps.
Adjust the home
Non-slip runners on hard floors, raised bowls if needed, a supportive orthopaedic bed, a litter tray with a low entry, and ramps for the car or sofa.
Exercise
More frequent, shorter, flatter walks. Sniffing and gentle mental work keep older brains sharp.
Vet care
Six-monthly checks, with blood pressure and blood tests. Arthritis pain is under-treated in both dogs and cats, and cats in particular rarely limp; they just stop jumping.
#senior#health
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