November is National Senior Pet Month, a month devoted to honoring senior pets, focusing on their needs, and raising awareness for senior animals who need homes.
According to Dr. Heidi Lobprise of Senior Pet Advocates, pets are living longer due to the advancements in veterinary care, foods, and medicines. As pets age, their needs change, so the month of November has been dedicated to drawing attention to our beloved senior pets.
At What Age is a Pet Considered a Senior?
The age a pet becomes a senior varies according to their size and breed. However, the average age of a senior dog is determined to be around 7 years while a cat is considered a senior at 11 years of age (source).
By this age, pets are calmer and more settled into a routine. The days of chewing apart furniture, shoes, toys, clothes, plants, and anything they can get into their mouths is over, and senior pets are more satisfied being on a comfortable bed alongside their owners and partner pals.
Medical Needs for Senior Pets
As pets age, their needs change and senior pets require additional care including, but not limited to, “…more frequent examinations, diagnostics, and nutritional and behavioral counseling.”
Senior pets are more prone to developing certain diseases and conditions as they age. These include:
- Arthritis: A frequent cause of chronic pain in older pets, arthritis occurs when a joint becomes unstable, leading to abnormal bone movement.
- Cancer: A leading cause of death in senior pets, cancer involves an overgrowth of cells that can overwhelm the immune system.
- Dental disease: This painful condition often goes unnoticed in senior pets due to its gradual progression.
- Kidney disease: Common in older dogs, this condition can result in incontinence and changes in body odor.
- Heart disease: Especially prevalent in small senior dogs, untreated heart disease can lead to congestive heart failure.
- Cognitive dysfunction: Similar to Alzheimer’s or dementia in humans, this condition affects mental function in older dogs.
- Diabetes: A common issue in older pets, diabetes occurs when the body can no longer properly process glucose.
- Cataracts: A frequent condition in older pets, cataracts cause the eye’s lens to become cloudy, creating a whitish appearance over the eye. Cataracts can result from trauma or infection and may lead to blindness if untreated.
- Glaucoma: A common issue in senior dogs, especially in certain breeds. There are two types: primary glaucoma, caused by poor drainage of eye fluid, and secondary glaucoma, which occurs from physical injury to the eye.
- Corneal Ulcers: A genetic condition that typically affects middle-aged or older dogs. If untreated, corneal ulcers can lead to vision loss.
It’s crucial to monitor any changes in your pet’s behavior or signs of health issues and consult a veterinarian promptly. Many conditions can be treated or managed, helping to enhance the quality of life for senior pets.
Adopt a Senior Pet
Our shelters are full of senior pets looking for homes. If you could fill your heart and home with a senior pet, you would be giving a displaced dog or cat a second or third chance at life.
Senior pets don’t need as much time and attention as younger pets, are more settled and some say, more appreciative. Their personalities are already developed, some are already trained, and all you have to provide is food, shelter, water, love, and companionship. It’s a win-win for all!
If you are looking to adopt a senior, check your local rescue organizations and shelters. Bring home a Senior Dog and do your part during National Senior Pet Month.
