Senior pets are known to be some of the most dedicated and loyal companions out there. After all those years they’ve spent giving us happiness and love, it’s only right we do the same in return. Even well into their later years, they still have so much to give! We’ve put together a list of tips to help you keep your senior pets happy throughout their golden years.
#1: Teach your old dog (or cat) new tricks.
Senior pets can suffer from declining cognitive function just like people, except they don’t tackle the daily crossword puzzle to keep their minds sharp. Treat your pet’s brain as another muscle that needs daily exercise to prevent wasting. Incorporate the following activities into your routine to add a stimulating mental nudge to your senior pet’s day:
- Serve meals by using food puzzles or by hiding food throughout your home for your pet to seek out.
- Learn new tricks and skills by using lure or clicker training to help encourage your pet to think for itself.
- Rotate toys to ensure each one is fresh and fun to entice your pet to play.
- Change your walking routine—hike a different trail, walk around the block in a new neighborhood, or check out a different dog park.
#2: Ease achy joints.
By combining the first two tips, you’re already on your way to alleviating osteoarthritis pain. Routine exercise maintains your pet’s muscle mass and promotes healthy joints, while proper nutrition ensures your pet remains lean and nourished. To further ease your pet’s achy joints, invest in high-quality orthopedic beds that are easily accessible. While fluffy beds may look appealing, they lack support, essentially leaving your pet to sleep on the hard floor. Add extra comfort with a heating pad designed to soothe away aches and pains.
#3: Whet your pet’s appetite.
As pets age, they tend to become pickier about their food. Feeding a canned food and warming it in the microwave for a few seconds may entice your pet to eat.
In addition to finding a diet your pet enjoys, it’s important to ensure they remain at a healthy weight by feeding them food with the proper levels of calories, protein, fat, carbs, vitamins, and minerals. Senior dogs require fewer calories than their adult counterparts to remain healthy, while senior cats often require more. If your pet is suffering from a chronic disease, they may benefit from a prescription diet formulated to help manage their condition. Before changing your pet’s diet plan, speak with us about the healthiest choice available.
Your elderly pets deserve the world and more. Schedule a routine wellness exam for your fur baby for more tips on giving them a comfortable and enjoyable experience.