Signs of Aging
1. Decreased Energy- Does your pet have the energy that they use to? Like us, our pets develop arthritis and this painful condition will cause them to slow down. You may also see reluctance to go up/down stairs, getting on/off furniture and bed and be slow to rise from laying down. In advanced stages, you may see restlessness, disassociation with the family and even snapping when touched
2. Eating Habits- Have you noticed your pet becoming fussy with food or not eating as much? These are common signs of dental disease. Tartar accumulation on the teeth can cause gum recession which leads to loose and painful teeth. Animals are very well trained to hide pain and know they need to eat to survive. By the time that they have stopped eating, their mouth is very painful.
If your pet is affected by arthritis, they may find it difficult to reach down to the food bowl which can also contribute to a decreased appetite.
3. Drinking Habits- Have you noticed your pet drinking more water? Increased drinking can be associated with a variety of diseases. Early detection can help prolong your pets life. We can pick up on these diseases even earlier, before signs start, by doing regular blood screening.
4. Grooming- Are you finding that your cat isn't grooming as much and the fur is becoming matted? Cats don't get tired of grooming, you cat could be too painful to groom. The pain could be caused by arthritis and/or dental disease.
5. Litterbox Habits- Is your cat going outside the litterbox? Consider its location- does your cat have to go down stairs to the basement or have to climb over the large side of the box? Think of your cat as an aging grandparent that is doing renovations to move the bedroom and bathroom to the main floor. Consider moving the litterbox to the main floor and choose a box that has lower sides.
Your pet gave you much joy in their earlier years, let us help you give them joy in their golden years. There is no better feeling than helping an old friend
