Most people don't realize their dogs and cats are considered to be of senior age when they reach seven years old.
It is important to realize there are many diseases associated with old age that can be prevented, delayed or successfully treated if you recognize the early warning signs.
The most common problems vets see senior pets coming in for include obesity, arthritis, tooth and gum disease, tumours, impaired senses, kidney disease, heart disease, liver disease and behavioural changes.
It is recommended that early detection can help in disease prevention and can minimize suffering.
Most diseases can go unnoticed in the early stages so regular blood and urine testing is a vital part of your senior pet's preventative healthcare routine.
You know your pet better than anyone else so watch out for the following changes before they become serious.
1.Interacting less often with the family (including increased aggression)
2.having difficulty jumping, climbing stairs, getting up in the morning
3.drinking more often
4.urinating more often
5.changes in eating patterns
6.changes in sleeping patterns
7.losing house training habits
8.becoming confused or disoriented
9.changes in haircoat, skin or new lumps and bumps
10.scratching more often
11.bad breath or swollen gums
Just like us humans become less active with age, so do our pets, and just like we focus on changing our dietary requirements so should we look at changing our pet's diet too.
Feeding the correct diet can greatly enhance the quality and length of our senior pet's life.
If you include regular gentle exercise in your pet's routine and you will be making a considerable difference in your senior pet's life.
I hope this article will help someone notice the early warning signs of a health problem with their best friend and extend their life by taking action.