Senior Care

Senior status can vary due to species and breed; dogs are considered seniors from ages 7-10, and cats may be considered seniors from 8-10. When your pet reaches a certain age, they go through many changes. To help pet owners care for their senior pets, our veterinarians recommend regular wellness checkups. You can have peace of mind knowing that our team is experienced with treating senior pets and creating healthy lifestyles for them.

Why is it important for senior pets to have regular veterinary visits?

As your pet ages, their health status can be easily compromised, and a minor issue can quickly become a big problem. This is why we encourage at least two yearly veterinary exams for senior pets. During these exams, our team can detect illnesses and provide immediate treatment. These checkups are also used to adjust your pet’s treatment and home care to suit their current health status. Catching problems early on will help us increase the longevity and quality of your pet’s life. Veterinary visits are strongly recommended as your senior pet can develop various health problems in their golden years. Senior pets are prone to:

• Diabetes
• Cancer
• Hormone disorder
• Heart disease
• Kidney and liver disease
• Cognitive dysfunction (Alzheimer’s disease)

What are signs my pet is aging?

The following are physical and mental changes that senior pets will experience:

1. Confusion
2. Less energy
3. Hearing or vision loss
4. Weight gain or loss
5. Thinning hair or coat
6. Greying around the face
7. Eating/drinking more or less
8. Urinating around the house

Some of these symptoms can occur due to health conditions, and our veterinarians can examine your pet and provide an accurate diagnosis. If these issues are due to your pet aging, it’s the perfect time to address them before they worsen. To schedule an appointment for your pet, please call us at 416-690-0625.

How can I care for my senior pet?

Senior pets are more delicate, so they need more attention. With the help of a veterinarian, your senior pet can maintain a healthy life for many more years. Our hospital has a senior wellness program geared towards keeping your loyal companion thriving in their golden years. This program includes frequent diagnostic testing, specialized diets, medical treatment, and providing recommendations for at-home care. Here are some guidelines for caring for your senior pet:

• Make your home more senior-friendly. Some pet owners install ramps or non-slip carpets that make it easier for their pets to move around.
• Moderate their exercise routine. Getting older means your pet will have less energy, so we recommend low-impact exercises to keep them active.