As more pet lovers choose to bring senior pets into their homes and into their hearts, understanding and managing age-related health issues in senior cats and dogs is a priority for everyone. many pet owners. Fortunately, with the right approach to nutrition, exercise, mental stimulation, and regular veterinary care, the most common health issues in senior pets can be kept at bay for as long as nature allows. .
Number of older pets on the rise
Puppies and kittens may have had all the power with future pet owners in the past. Today, however, animal lovers are increasingly choosing older pets to complete their families. This, combined with pet parents totally devoted to their longtime companions and striving to keep them healthy and happy for longer, means there are more senior pets than ever before.
In 2012, 42% of U.S. dog-owning households housed senior dogs. 46% of cat-owning households housed older cats. (Pets ages 7 and older are categorized as seniors in this case.) In 2022, that figure has risen to 52% for senior dogs and cats. (IRM-Simmons, GlobalPetIndustry.)
If you’re one of those pet parents of a senior dog or cat, you’re also no doubt aware that as the number of birthday treats increases, so do the potential health issues. also. Plus, you’re probably very keen to slow down Father Time’s march forward – and all the associated aches and pains.
4 Common Health Problems in Senior Pets
Here are four of the most common health problems in older pets, along with suggestions for minimizing their impact:
Joint and mobility problems
Just like humans, as dogs and cats age they may begin to experience joint pain and stiffness. Nutrition can play a key role in supporting older pets with joint issues. ZIWI’s recipes, for example, include ingredients like New Zealand green lipped mussels which contain proteins like glucosamine, chondroitin and omega 3 fatty acids – an anti-inflammatory triple threat to help repair muscle and improve joint health and mobility.
Heart problems
Heart disease can also develop as animals age. Signs of possible congestive heart failure include coughing, difficulty breathing, exercise intolerance, loss of consciousness, and unexplained vomiting. Visit your veterinarian as soon as possible. However, ways to help support your senior pet’s heart health before it gets to that stage include a diet rich in amino acids like taurine (found in organs), which helps fight heart disease. buildup of plaque in the arteries.
Coat and skin issues
Dull coat, hair loss and uncomfortable skin conditions are also common in the aging process. Pet food recipes rich in nutrients like omega-3 and -6 fatty acids can reduce shedding, improve softness and increase shine factor. Meat and organs are also an excellent source of zinc, copper and vitamin A, which are known to promote cell development and hair growth, as well as repair skin damage.
Digestive problems
Gastrointestinal issues in your aging dog or cat can include symptoms such as unexplained vomiting or diarrhea, incontinence, and persistent lack of appetite. Again, we recommend a visit to your veterinarian. However, long-term gut health and digestion can also be improved on a carnivorous, low-carb diet with no added fillers.
It’s clear that nutrition plays an important role in your pet’s health at all ages and stages. Be sure to give your senior dog or cat the right nutritional tools to help them lead a healthier, happier and longer life.
