Your pet is now in their golden years.
Senior pets require care and attention targeted to their age in order to help them maintain a high quality of life. At easyvet Madison, we support pet owners in the Madison, AL area with comprehensive senior pet care so that their cat or dog can spend as much quality time with you as possible.
What Makes a Pet a Senior?
Age alone does not define a senior pet—changes in their body, metabolism, and overall health play a significant role. Generally, dogs and cats are considered seniors around 7-10 years of age, though this varies by breed and size. Large breed dogs tend to age faster, while smaller breeds and cats may show signs of aging later.
As pets grow older, they may experience a decline in mobility, energy levels, and organ function. You might notice graying fur, reduced vision or hearing, weight changes, or increased stiffness. These are all natural parts of aging, but with proactive care, we can manage these changes and keep your pet feeling their best.
Your pet should have a routine of wellness visits and lab work.
Regular veterinary visits become even more important as pets enter their senior years. We recommend biannual wellness exams to closely monitor their health for developing health issues. Since cats and dogs age more rapidly than humans, six months can bring significant changes.
Annual lab testing is also a key component of senior pet care. Blood tests, urinalysis, and other screenings can be used to evaluate kidney function, liver function, and thyroid health as well as detect early signs of chronic conditions. Early diagnosis and intervention can lead to better management and improved outcomes for your pet.
Management for Health Conditions in Senior Cats and Dogs
Aging pets are more prone to developing chronic health conditions, but with the right care, these issues can be managed effectively. Our team works with pet owners to develop personalized care plans for conditions such as:
- Arthritis: Joint pain and stiffness can limit mobility, but treatments like supplements, medications, and weight management can help.
- Chronic Kidney or Liver Disease: Monitoring and diet adjustments can slow disease progression and improve quality of life.
- Thyroid Disease: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are common in older pets and can be managed with medication.
- Diabetes: Insulin therapy, diet control, and regular monitoring contribute to diabetic pets living healthy lives.
- Heart Disease: Early detection and appropriate medications can improve heart function and prevent complications.
- Endocrine Disorders: Conditions like Cushing’s or Addison’s disease require ongoing management but can be treated.
What to Do When Your Senior Pet Develops a Health Concern
Senior pets may experience unexpected changes in their health, such as suddenly starting to urinate in the house or refusing to eat. If you are concerned that your cat or dog may be experiencing a health issue or illness, turn to a veterinarian for experienced care.
Our team at easyvet Madison offers sick care services to diagnose, treat, and manage illnesses and health concerns. We also provide quality-of-life exams to help pet owners assess their senior pet’s overall wellness and whether to consider hospice care. If you have concerns about pain management, changes in behavior, or end-of-life decisions, our compassionate team will support you in making the right choices for your beloved pet.
Bring more happy years with senior pet care in Madison, AL.
Caring for a senior pet comes with unique challenges, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Our veterinary team has expert guidance and compassionate care for your aging pet’s needs. Schedule a senior pet wellness exam at easyvet Madison today! If you are looking for a same-day appointment or walk-in, give us a call.
easyvet Madison provides senior pet care for cats and dogs in Madison, Huntsville, Lake Forest, Redstone Arsenal, Capshaw, Athens, and neighboring Alabama areas.
