Have you noticed that your pet is slower than usual? Pets grow old, and they start to show signs of aging, just like humans. You start to notice gray fur on your pets. They start responding less because they are hard of hearing. You notice that your pet is not as jumpy as before. They develop a myriad of health conditions that attack them at their old age. At this time, you should be compassionate and adapt your pet into senior life. Here are some insights on how to care for your senior pet.
 

Watch Their Diet

Senior pets eat less since they are not as active as before. Feed them a balanced diet and keep them hydrated at all times. Foods loaded with carbs and high protein content may not be suitable at this time. They lead to weight gain, which contributes to more health problems. Consult with your vet to get proper advice on their nutrition.
 

Keep Exercising

When pets grow older, they slow down. They no longer chase their friends and jump all over the place. They may suffer from arthritis and other conditions that discourage them from having an active life. Exercise is still important at this stage, though. Custom-make an exercise plan that is suitable for them. It is good for their circulation and general mood, and it keeps them going. Combine exercise activities with belly rubs, brushing, and cuddles to improve their general mood.
 

Increase Your Visits to the Vet

When your pet is a senior, they may have many things going on that you may not notice. Increase your scheduled visits to the vet. The vet can keep a tab on what is going on at their stage and advice you on how to keep them comfortable. Regular medical exams also help to catch some conditions before they take a toll on your pet.
 

Make Your Home Senior Pet Friendly

Your pet may not be able to get everywhere in your home like before. Move their sleeping area downstairs. Put their food and water in a spot that is easy to reach. You can get an orthopedic bed for them to keep them comfortable. Keep them warm with blankets and jackets during cold weather.
 

Groom and Vaccinate

Protect your pet from opportunistic parasites by keeping them clean. Maintain good oral health as well as proper cleaning and grooming. Vaccinate them against potential life-threatening conditions. Quarantine them at home if you hear news of disease outbreaks. Consult your vet on how to keep them away from parasites and diseases.
 

Know When to Throw In the Towel

Most people want their pet best friends to live forever. However, it reaches a point, and you have to prioritize the quality of life. If your pet has lost vision, hearing, cannot feed well, and suffers from different conditions, it is time to let them rest. Look for signs of cognitive dysfunction. If the pet is confused, incontinent, does not feed, and seems lethargic, it’s time to consult with your vet on the next humane move.
 

To know more about senior pets, visit Port Royal Veterinary Hospital at our offices in Port Royal, South Carolina. You can also call 843-379-7387 to book an appointment today.