As our beloved pets enter their golden years, their healthcare needs evolve. At Four Paws Veterinary Clinic in Missoula, MT, we cherish the special bond you share with your senior dog or cat. We're committed to ensuring their later years are filled with the same joy and comfort they brought into your life. Understanding what these years may bring is essential for preparing to give them the care they deserve.
Is your senior dog or cat due for a visit? Call (406) 542-3838 or schedule online to set up an appointment!
Caring for Your Senior Pet
As dogs and cats age, their healthcare requirements change. It's not just about more naps in the sunshine or shorter walks. Senior dogs and cats need tailored nutrition, more frequent exams, and special attention to their comfort and mobility.
Here's how we can support your senior pet's health and happiness:
Semi-Annual Wellness Exams
Just like us, as pets age, they may encounter health challenges. Bi-annual visits help us catch and manage these issues early, keeping your pet happier and healthier for longer.
Senior Lab Work
Monitoring your pet's health through regular lab tests can reveal problems like kidney, heart, or liver disease before symptoms appear.
Nutritional Counseling
Senior dogs and cats also have different dietary needs. We can offer in-depth guidance on feeding your pet to maintain optimal weight and support their aging body.
Pain Management
Arthritis and other conditions can cause significant discomfort in dogs and cats. Our team can examine your pet and offer optimal solutions to keep them comfortable.
Cancer Care
Cancer is unfortunately common in older dogs and cats, but we have treatment options available. Dr. Prince and our team can provide chemotherapy, surgical intervention, and other services to treat lymphoma, osteosarcoma, and other types of cancer.
Common Conditions in Senior Dogs and Cats
Cats and dogs can experience a variety of health changes and conditions as they age, similar to humans. Here are some common conditions to be aware of:
- Arthritis and reduced mobility
- Dental disease
- Kidney, heart, or liver disease
- Diabetes
- Obesity or weight loss
- Vision and hearing loss
- Cancer
- GI and endocrine disorders
- Neurologic problems
How You Can Help Your Senior Pet
There's a lot you can do at home to make your senior pet's life better. Here are some tips:
- Regular Exercise: Keep your pet moving to maintain healthy joints and muscles. Adjust activities to suit their pace and abilities.
- Balanced Diet: Feed your dog or cat a diet suited for senior pets, with the right balance of nutrients.
- Comfortable Resting Areas: Ensure your pet always has a cozy, easily accessible place to rest.
- Routine Health Checks: Stick to your veterinarian’s recommended schedule for wellness exams and lab work.
At Four Paws Veterinary Clinic, we put pets and people first. We're here to support you and your senior pet every step of the way, ensuring they receive the love and care they need as they age. Together, we can make their senior years just as happy and fulfilling as their youthful ones.