Senior Pets Decoded - PawNation

By Sara Tan Mar 28th 2012

• Just like puppies and kittens, your senior pets need your utmost attention and tons of tender loving care. These are your pets' golden years and you owe it to them to ensure they age as comfortably and gracefully as they possibly can, but as all owners know, it's not easy when our pets begin to age.

  There are lots of questions when it comes to a senior animal's behavior and health. We've taken owners' most common concerns for their aging animals and have done our best decoding. Here are the answers:?

• Can you really not teach an old dog new tricks?

  The old adage holds absolutely no truth. Older dogs can learn new tricks, and are arguably better at it. Older dogs are able to focus more and are more mellow, making it easier for them to be able to follow what you are trying to teach them.

  Not only can they learn new tricks, it is also vital to an older dog's health to keep its brain stimulated. Teaching your pet something new will help it in the long run. While it may take your elderly dog a bit longer to learn something, it doesn't mean they can't understand you. Be patient. (The Dog Training Secret)

• Older dogs don't need as much exercise as puppies do, right?

  On the contrary. In order to maintain your older dog's health and happiness, it is important to maintain their exercise. Elderly dogs should exercise every single day, but require shorter and less intense workouts than when they were younger.

  Just like humans, the more exercise your dog's muscles and joints get, the more active and less injured it will be later in their life. Exercise is crucial, but remember that it is also important to help your dog stretch its legs and muscles out. (eHow.com)?

• My older cat is eating, but keeps losing weight. I don't know what to do.

  The most common disease when it comes to senior cat weight loss is hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is a disease that increases the metabolism in your cat's body. Other symptoms of this disease are depression and weakness. While this may not be the case for your cat, aging cats are at higher risk of hyperthyroidism.

  Although you think your cat may be eating regularly, weight loss is not healthy. It is always important to bring your cat to the vet when you notice unusual patterns in your cat such as this, especially in an older animal. (PetMD)?

• My senior dog has started to drink a lot of water. Are older dogs just thirstier?

  Excessive drinking in any pet, at any age is abnormal and can be a sign of a much larger problem. If your dog is drinking more than usual, it could be a sign that he is developing diabetes, kidney disease or cancer.

  But don't panic. Having a thirsty dog is totally normal, but you should keep a close eye on him if you suspect an increased intake.? Illness isn't always the case, but any immoderate behavior in your dog should always be brought to the attention of a vet.

  (PetMeds)

• My elderly cat keeps meowing and I don't know why.

  Meowing is a common behavior in elderly cats, but if it starts to become extreme, there could be something wrong. Since most cats meow as a sign that they want your attention or that they are in pain, meowing could signal discomfort or sickness.

  If your cat is being more vocal than usual, bring her to the vet immediately as it could be a symptom of a more serious disease. However, as previously stated, lots of meows are normal for older cats. Similar to humans, changes in your cat's aging brain could result in personality alterations such as excessive meowing or increased aggression. (ASPCA)?

• Now that my dog is older, how often should I bring it to the vet?

  One of the most important responsibilities a pet parent has is scheduling regular check-ups with your vet. When your pets begin to age,vet visits are even more vital to their well-being. Lots of things can happen during the later years of your dog's life, so be sure to schedule at least two examinations a year.

  Most veterinarians encourage a full physical exam each time, which includes X-rays and blood screens. Always note any unusual behaviors in your dog and bring those to your vet's attention. (AARP)

• My senior dog hates sleeping in his bed that he used to love. Why has he all of a sudden abandoned it?

  For aging canines, always think in terms of comfort. Perhaps your dog's old bed isn't as cushiony as it used to be. His old joints may need some extra loving, so replace his old bed with something softer, or add another fluffy blanket on top to make it cozier.

  Senior pooches not only want their beds to be soft, they also want them to be toasty too. There are even orthopedic dogs beds you can purchase that have extra padding and heat elements for your older dog's every need. (Dummies)?

• When are cats considered to be "senior?"

  Each cat is special and unique in his or her own way, and that also applies to aging. Just like humans, factors such as genetics, weight and size matter. Some cats may be healthier and age less quickly than others. However, according to the American Association of Feline Practitioners, most cats reach senior status between the ages of 11 and 14 years of age. (AAFP)

Source: http://www.pawnation.com/2012/03/28/senior-pets-decoded/

giants patriots yolo steelers vs ravens jack dempsey lake malawi warren jeffs phaedra parks