Senior Pet Car Near Me

When is my Pet Considered a Senior?

As our beloved pets get older, they may begin to slow down and certain behaviours may change but they can remain their characteristic selves. A dog or cat aged 7 and above is considered a senior pet and they are more likely to develop certain conditions around this age. Our senior pets don’t always show us when they’re in pain though or when they’re uncomfortable or in need of extra attention. Regular health check-ups are recommended for your pets in these later years to spot signs of certain age-related conditions. Woodward is your ‘senior pet care near me’ specialist. We will ensure your pet’s needs are met and that we can do all we can to improve their quality of life.

Age-Related Conditions Seen in Senior Pets

Arthritis

As our pets age, their joints feel the effects of all those happy walks and playful moments. This wear and tear can lead to inflammation, making movement uncomfortable and stiff. Osteoarthritis, or simply arthritis, often affects the hips, elbows, and knees but can develop in any joint.

Here's how to recognise signs of arthritis in your pet:

• Reduced enthusiasm for walks: They might seem less interested in their usual walks or tire more easily.
• Playing it safe: They may be hesitant to jump, climb stairs, or engage in playful activities they used to enjoy.
• Limping or favouring a leg: This can be a sign of pain in a particular joint.
• Losing muscle mass: Muscles around sore joints may weaken over time.
• Excessive licking or chewing: They might lick or chew at areas where the joints are painful.
• Stiffness in their gait: You might notice a stiff walking motion, especially after waking up or exercising

 

Heart Disease

Mitral valve disease (MVD), the most common heart disease in dogs, affects the valve between the left heart chambers. It worsens over time, but some dogs show no symptoms. A vet can detect a heart murmur during routine exams. Being aware of the symptoms is important:

Signs:

• Coughing (worse at night)
• Lower activity levels
• Faster breathing
• Weight loss
• Fainting

Feline Cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy is a general term for heart muscle disease in cats. Different types affect function in various ways. Symptoms can be subtle, so regular checkups are crucial.

Signs:

• Difficulty breathing
• Cold limbs
• Fainting (uncommon)

Your vet may detect:

• Heart murmur
• Abnormal heart rhythm
• Faster/slower heart rate

If you are ever concerned your pet is showing signs of heart disease, book an appointment with our vets at Woodward and they can assess your senior pet.

 

Kidney Disease in Cats

Kidneys are vital organs, removing toxins, balancing fluids, and regulating blood pressure in your Newmarket pet. When they malfunction, it's called kidney failure (renal disease). Age is a risk factor, but symptoms and severity vary. Seek senior pet care near me if you spot the following signs of kidney disease.

Look for:

• Increased thirst and urination
• Diarrhea or vomiting
• Weight loss
• Poor appetite
• Mouth ulcers
• Sudden vision loss (rare)

 

High Blood Pressure in Cats

While high blood pressure (hypertension) can arise independently, it's more commonly a symptom of underlying issues like kidney disease, heart problems, or thyroid disorders. When the body strains to circulate blood due to high pressure, it can damage organs like the kidneys, eyes, heart, and even the brain.

Warning Signs to Watch For:

• Sudden blindness
• Unexplained weight loss
• Visible changes within the eye, such as bleeding
• Seizures
• Disorientation
• Behavioural alterations

If you notice any of these signs in your pet, it's crucial to seek veterinary attention immediately. Early detection and treatment of high blood pressure can help manage the condition and prevent serious complications.

 

Cushing's Disease in Dogs

Cushing's syndrome develops in dogs when their bodies produce too much cortisol, a hormone that plays a key role in metabolism. This hormonal imbalance disrupts the body's self-regulation, leading to various health concerns. Visit senior pet care near me if you notice the following signs in your senior pet…

Signs to Watch Out For:

• Increased thirst and urination, sometimes with incontinence
• Voracious appetite
• Distended abdomen (pot belly)
• Thinning of the skin
• Patchy hair loss or recurring skin infections
• Muscle weakness and wasting
• Lethargy and decreased activity levels
• Excessive panting

If you notice any of these signs in your dog, consult your veterinarian promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment of Cushing's syndrome can significantly improve your dog's quality of life.

Finding Senior Pet Care Near You

Woodward Vets are dedicated to providing exceptional senior pet care near me services.  Our team of experienced and compassionate veterinarians understands the unique needs of aging pets and is committed to helping them live a long, happy, and healthy life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss how we can help your senior pet thrive!

Woodward Pet Health For Life Plan

Support your senior pet’s health with an annual package that covers essential treatment and prioritises senior pets’ quality of life with preventative care. Senior pet care near me can mean regular visits that build -up in cost, but with our Pet Health for Life Plan, you get 2 consultations covered as well as other preventative treatments such as vaccines and parasite treatment to make looking after your senior pet simpler and affordable.

Book a Consultation Today

Speak to our vets for senior pet care near me and seek advice or treatment to prioritise your pet’s quality of life. We’ll assess, diagnose and treat your pets to reduce pain, improve conditions by reducing symptoms and recommend home care. Call us to book your pet in with a vet.