Care of Aging Pets
Changes In Older Kitties and Pups
Gretchen Heuring | ElderThink | 8.26.10
We change some as we grow older and so do our pets. There are ways to improve their quality of life and there might be some lessons here for us humans too.
Problems of Old Dogs
The most common physical problem with old dogs is pain in the joints. A ramp for climbing up or down (vehicles or furniture) will make his life easier. A firm orthopedic foam bed will help reduce the pressure on his joints and make getting up in the morning a lot better. Elevation of his food and water bowls can help too as arthritis in the shoulders and neck is fairly common. Nutrition supplements can make him more comfortable too. Look for Glucosomine HCI and Chondroitin Sulfate. Don't forget to give him lots of extra love. You can be sure he will love you right back.
Lots more about conditions, symptoms and behavior of dogs on WebMD.
Problems of Old Cats
With elderly cats, a common problem is eliminating outside the litter box or spraying. Tests for infection or disease are important in an older cat so be sure to take the kitty to the vet right away. A couple of other things to try are a different kind of litter box, or a different location for the litter box. Sometimes the cause can be stress because of a move or change in the family, and she just needs lots of reassurance from you. She is probably quite embarrassed by her behavior. After all, she is the Queen!
More about conditions, symptoms and behavior of cats on WebMD.
