Senior Pet Care

As our furry friends age, it's expected that the way in which we care for them will too. At Southwest Veterinary Hospital, PC located in Littleton, CO, we understand how much your pet means to you. As experts in pet care, we partner with you and your family to help provide the appropriate care and quality of life for your pet.

While we can't restore the playfulness and activity level of their younger days, we can pledge to use different techniques and treatments to help keep them as happy and healthy as possible. Here is information regarding senior pets and their care.

When Do Pets Reach Senior Status?

Cats may be considered senior after turning 10. For dogs, it may differ according to size.

What Are Special Care Considerations For A Senior Pet?

Here are some things to consider when caring for your senior pet:

Increased Vet Visits: It may be recommended at least twice a year to check for age related disease, dental issues, and blood tests.

Dietary Changes: Aging pets may need easy-to-digest and chewable food. Also, be sure to not feed them too much human food or they may become obese.

Parasite Control and Vaccinations: As they age, pets' immune system will weaken and they will be less able to fight off disease and intestinal parasites.

Maintain Mobility - it's important that your pet stays active and gets daily exercise. Though some pets will be limited as to how much exercise they can tolerate based on age and individual condition, it is important to discuss a plan with your vet to keep your senior pet as active as possible.

Mental Health: Older pets, like humans, need cognitive stimulation to keep their brains active.

Aging pets are also prone to arthritis, cancer, kidney, liver, and heart disease, as well as diabetes. It's important to watch for signs of these conditions and inform a veterinarian on our team if you see them.

Be Aware of Their Exercise Restrictions

Although it is important to keep your senior pet active, his age may restrict him from performing certain exercises. He may not walk as fast as he used to or as far as he used. He may also not be able to jump up to get into the car like he used to be able to either. Also be aware of the weather as it may be a lot easier for an older pet to overheat.

Get Senior Pet Care from a Veterinarian Near You at Our Animal Hospital

If you're in the Littleton, CO, area and are looking for an animal hospital near you for your senior pet, we at Southwest Veterinary Hospital, PC are here to help. Our caring staff is here to answer any questions you have, so give us a call. Call us at (303) 794-2697 for senior pet care from a veterinarian near you at our animal hospital.