Senior Pet Care in Buffalo - Why it Matters
Senior pets have different needs than younger pets and require more specialized care. As they age, they may develop health issues such as arthritis, dental problems, and vision or hearing loss. Regular check-ups and preventative care can help catch these issues early and improve your pet's quality of life. Senior pet care is also important for maintaining their mental and emotional well-being. Older pets may become more anxious or depressed, and it is important to provide them with the love and attention they need.
When is My Dog or Cat Considered a Senior?
The age at which a pet is considered a senior can vary depending on their breed and size. Generally, dogs and cats are considered seniors when they reach 7-9 years old. However, larger breeds tend to age faster and may be considered seniors at a younger age. It is important to consult with our veterinarians to determine when your pet is considered a senior.
Signs of Aging in Pets
As your pet ages, you may notice changes in their behavior and appearance. Some common signs of aging in pets include:
- Decreased activity and energy levels
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Difficulty getting up or walking
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Changes in vision or hearing
- Dental problems
- Changes in coat and skin
- Increased thirst and urination
If you notice any of these signs in your pet, it is important to request an appointment with our Buffalo, NY veterinarians for proper care and treatment.
Senior Pet Care Screenings in Buffalo
When your pet reaches their golden years, it's crucial to give them thorough checkups to keep them healthy and happy. Here's what these checkups usually involve:
- Full Body Check: Our vets carefully examine your pet from head to tail, checking for any lumps, bumps, or signs of discomfort.
- Eye Checks: Seniors are more prone to eye problems like cataracts and glaucoma, so we do detailed eye exams to catch issues early and protect their vision.
- Dental Checkups: Dental health is super important, especially for older pets. We look for gum disease, tooth loss, and oral tumors to keep their mouths healthy.
- Blood Tests: These give us a peek into your pet's internal health, checking how well their organs are working. They're vital for catching diseases like diabetes or thyroid issues early.
- Thyroid Tests: Cats, especially, can have thyroid problems as they age. We check their thyroid hormone levels to spot any issues.
- Urine Tests: This simple test can reveal a lot about your pet's urinary tract health and help catch infections or stones early on, before they cause major problems. Regular checkups like these can catch hidden issues and keep your senior pet feeling their best for longer.
Arthritis in Senior Pets
Arthritis, or osteoarthritis, signifies the breakdown of cartilage, the protective tissue amid joints. As cartilage diminishes, it prompts painful bone friction. Though pets can experience arthritis at any stage, it's notably common among seniors, owing to years of joint wear and tear.
What Causes Arthritis in Senior Pets?
Various elements contribute to arthritis onset in senior pets:
- Age: Aging leads to natural wear and tear on joints.
- Breed: Certain breeds, like German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers, possess genetic predispositions to joint ailments.
- Weight: Overweight pets experience heightened joint stress, accelerating arthritis progression.
- Activity: Imbalanced physical exertion - be it excessive or insufficient - can impact joint health adversely.
- Past Injuries: Pets with prior joint traumas or surgeries face increased arthritis risks.
- Genetics: Some inherit a susceptibility to joint issues from their lineage.
Signs of arthritis in pets include:
- Difficulty getting up or walking
- Stiffness
- Reluctance to play or exercise
- Difficulty jumping, or climbing stairs
If your pet is diagnosed with arthritis, there are several therapies available to help manage their pain and improve their mobility.
Managing Arthritis in Senior Pets
Although there is no cure for arthritis, there are effective management strategies to alleviate symptoms and slow down its progress:
- Work with our Buffalo veterinary experts to develop a personalized treatment regimen.
- Ensure your pet maintains an ideal weight.
- Offer cozy bedding for comfort.
- Adapt your home environment to accommodate your senior pet's needs.
- Explore alternative therapies for added relief.
- Discuss options like osteoarthritis injections - such as Solensia for Cats and Librela for Dogs to alleviate pain in pets grappling with osteoarthritis. This service is available at our affiliate locations, North Buffalo Animal Hospital and Ellicott Street Animal Hospital.
Therapies for Senior Pet Pain Management in Buffalo
There are several therapies available for senior pets with arthritis or other age-related conditions. These include:
- Medications: Our veterinarians may prescribe pain medication or anti-inflammatory drugs to help manage your pet's pain.
- Supplements: Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements can help improve joint health and reduce inflammation.
- Acupuncture: This ancient Chinese therapy can help relieve pain and improve mobility in senior pets. This service is available at our affiliate location, Ellicott Street Animal Hospital.
- Laser therapy: This non-invasive therapy uses light to stimulate healing and reduce pain. This service is available at our affiliate locations, North Buffalo Animal Hospital and Ellicott Street Animal Hospital.
Tips for Caring for Your Senior Pet
- Regular Vet Checkups: Keep up with vet appointments to catch any issues early. Bi-annual visits are best for seniors.
- Diet and Exercise: Work with our Buffalo vets to adjust their diet and create a suitable exercise plan that fits their mobility level.
- Cozy Environment: Make their space comfy and safe with orthopedic bedding, ramps, and easy access to essentials like food and water.
- Mental Stimulation: Keep their minds sharp with toys, training, and interaction to combat cognitive decline.
Find a Senior Pet Vet Near Buffalo, NY
Finding a senior pet vet near you in Buffalo, Erie County, is easy with our online request-an-appointment feature. Both new and existing clients seeking care for their senior pet may request an appointment at our Buffalo vet clinic.
