Did you know pets aged 7 and older are considered senior pets? Senior pets are more likely to develop serious illness or disease, which is why at Potomac Animal Wellness Services, we recommend senior pets are brought in at least twice a year for a wellness appointment. Our team works with pet owners to ensure your senior dog or cat is happy and healthy for years to come!
Need to schedule a wellness appointment for your senior pet? Contact Potomac Animal Wellness Services today!
Dog Years vs. Human Years
7 dog years = 44-56 years
10 dog years = 56-78 years
15 dog years = 76-115 years
20 dog years = 96-120 years
Cat Years vs. Human Years
7 cat years = 54 years
10 cat years = 63 years
15 cat years = 78 years
20 cat years = 97 years
Senior Wellness Care
As pets age, it is vital to stay up to date with any changes in their health. Seeing your senior pet at least twice a year allows our team to track any changes in their health, provide vaccinations, and perform lab testing to detect illness or disease before it becomes a problem. Early detection can make a huge difference in the efficacy of treatment, especially when related to health issues such as:
- Arthritis
- Diabetes
- Liver disease
- Heart disease
- Certain types of cancer
Maintaining Your Senior Pet’s Health
As a pet owner, you play an important role in your pet’s care. In addition to bringing them to PAWS for regular appointments, there are ways to improve your senior cat or dog’s daily wellness, too.
PROVIDE MOBILITY AIDS
Your pet may not get around as easily as they used to, and it may be necessary to place rugs along slippery floors to improve traction or position a ramp near a bed or couch to assist your companion in reaching their favorite spot.
OFFER PLENTY OF EXERCISE
Taking your pet for a walk or playing with them in your backyard are excellent ways to provide regular exercise. Just like people, dogs and cats greatly benefit from exercise as it can increase mobility, better their mood, and prevent them from gaining weight.
ENSURE COMFORTABLE BEDDING
Have you considered purchasing a comfy bed for your pet? A soft, supportive bed can create a cozy place for your pet to relax.
FEED A HEALTHY, BALANCED DIET
We recommend feeding your pet a diet formulated for their age range. This can help improve their digestion and ensure healthy caloric consumption.
KEEP A CLOSE EYE ON YOUR PET
A change to your pet’s habits may signify a change in their health as well. If your pet’s eating, drinking, sleeping and bathroom habits have changed, please let your veterinarian know.
