Old Dog resting on the floor

Senior Pets: Understanding Their Needs and Providing Optimal Care

Senior animals are often passed over in shelters, overlooked in favour of younger pets. However, adopting senior pets comes with numerous advantages. They are usually already housebroken, need less supervision, exhibit calmer temperaments and love deeply. If you’re thinking about bringing a senior pet into your home, you likely have questions. Lucky for you, we’ve got answers! This month’s blog serves as a complete guide to caring for senior pets, covering common health issues, nutritional needs and more to help you provide excellent support for an older pet. Let’s get started!

How Old are Senior Pets?

Let’s start with the most obvious question: when is a pet considered a senior? For dogs, it’s usually at 7 years old, but this varies depending on their size, breed and health. Larger breeds like Golden Retrievers and Labs have shorter lifespans and may be considered seniors earlier than smaller breeds like Shih Tzus and Pomeranians. What about cats? Like dogs, the age at which cats are considered elderly, depends on size, breed and health but generally, senior cats are around 11 in age and super-senior at 15 and older. Some senior cats can even live up to 30 years in age, especially if they live indoors, as these felines tend to have significantly longer lifespans than outdoor cats. 

Why Senior Pets are Surrendered to HSGN 

Senior pets are surrendered to the Humane Society of Greater Niagara for various reasons. Often, these pets have spent their entire lives with one family, so the reasons for surrender can be quite serious. They include situations like the owner moving to a senior living centre or passing away, facing unexpected high medical expenses due to age-related issues or experiencing sudden life changes such as divorce or job loss. Regardless of the reasons they arrive at HSGN, each of these animals deserves a chance at finding a new home. 

Understanding the Unique Healthcare Needs of Senior Pets 

Caring for senior pets differs significantly from caring for younger ones. Older cats and dogs may have health issues that require additional support from you, demanding more of your time and attention. Below, we’ll explore some specific ways in which the healthcare needs of older pets can vary:

Diet and Nutrition 

Ensuring optimal cat and dog healthcare involves adapting to your pet’s evolving dietary needs as they age. As pets reach their golden years, their tastes and needs can shift. For instance, the hard kibble that once satisfied your dog might become too difficult for them to chew due to dental issues. In such cases, transitioning to softer food or pre-softening their kibble can enhance digestion and comfort. Additionally, as pets grow older, supplements play an important role in maintaining their health. For example, glucosamine can help support cartilage in older dogs’ joints, while urinary tract support supplements, made with ingredients like cranberry extract can promote urinary health in older cats. Always seek advice from your vet before introducing any new medications or supplements to your cat or dog’s healthcare routine. 

Exercise 

“If you don’t move it, you lose it!” This old saying applies to senior pets, too. Flexibility and mobility often become issues in older pets, making daily exercise challenging. The good news is there are plenty of ways to provide your senior pets with exercise that don’t involve running or jumping. Consider low-impact exercises. Continue taking your dog for short daily walks, but also try swimming or yoga with them. Swimming, in particular, is a great low-impact exercise for older dogs. Training and socializing are also beneficial for pet wellbeing. As the saying goes, “an old dog is never too old to learn new tricks.” When socializing your dog, try to keep them around canines close to their age to avoid the antics of high-energy puppies.

Grooming 

All pets need grooming, but senior pets require it more consistently and frequently. Regular grooming removes loose hair and stimulates blood circulation, resulting in a healthy coat, leaving you with a happy pet. For senior cats, nails are a high priority. If they’ve stopped using their scratching post, you’ll need to check their nails regularly and trim them when needed. When grooming your senior pets, opt for softer, gentler brushes. As pets age, their skin becomes weaker and more sensitive. Try to also keep grooming sessions short and sweet – fifteen minutes or less is ideal to minimize discomfort. And don’t forget to check their eyes, ears and mouth! Remove any debris you find around the ears and brush their teeth to remove tartar buildup.

Common Health Issues Seen in Senior Pets 

As pets enter their senior years, their health can start to decline, mirroring human aging. The good news is that many of these health challenges can be managed effectively. Below, we’ll explore some of the prevalent health issues in senior pets and offer advice on how you can support them through these conditions, focusing on optimal cat and dog healthcare:

Mobility Issues 

One of the most noticeable signs of old age in pets is a decline in mobility. This can manifest as limping, difficulty sitting or standing, hesitancy to jump, run or climb stairs and decreased activity, among several other signs. Fortunately, there are many ways to make your dog or cat’s life more comfortable if they are struggling with mobility issues. Here are some tips to help accommodate their lack of mobility:

  • Consider toe grips or no-slip socks. If your furry friend is sliding on hardwood floors and having trouble finding their footing, toe grips or no-slip socks could greatly help by providing traction on smooth surfaces.
  • Upgrade their bedding. Investing in softer, supportive bedding can provide relief for stiff and sore joints. Look for beds specifically designed for pets with mobility issues for added comfort.  
  • Add additional water bowls. Placing extra water bowls around your home ensures your pet stays hydrated without needing to move too far, which can be beneficial if they have reduced mobility.
Bladder Support 

Bladder issues are common among aging dogs and cats, caused by factors like hormonal changes, spinal problems, or simply old age. It’s important not to punish your pet for these accidents. Instead, consider adjusting to accommodate their needs. For dogs, installing doggy doors or using pee pads can help. If the issue is more severe, your pet may benefit from diapers or liners. For aging cats struggling with bladder issues, consider a new litter box design. Senior cats with mobility challenges may struggle to step into high-sided litter boxes, leading to accidents outside the box. Look for a litter box with a lower entry point that allows them to walk in easily without needing to jump. 

Senior Dog and Cat Behaviour Changes 

Senior dog behaviour changes are not unheard of. They can happen for various reasons, including physical pain and age-related diseases. As pets grow older, their physical health can affect their mental well-being. Here are some examples of behavioural changes that senior pets may experience:

  • Heightened sensitivity to sounds
  • Increased vocalization
  • Confusion and disorientation
  • Reduced interaction with humans
  • Diminished response to commands
  • Altered sleeping patterns
  • More frequent wandering
  • Repetitive behaviours
  • Decline in self-grooming habits
  • Loss of bladder control
  • Heightened irritability, anxiety or stress
  • Increased aggressive or protective instincts

Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for managing senior dog and cat behaviour changes. These visits are essential for monitoring not just their physical health, but also for addressing any shifts in behaviour. If you notice any changes in your pet’s behaviour, inform your vet promptly to explore potential solutions.

Essential Home Modifications for Senior Pets

Ensuring your home accommodates the mobility needs of older pets, a common issue they face, is crucial for their quality of life. Here are some ways you can improve your pet’s wellbeing and make your space more comfortable:

  • Provide easy passageways: Install ramps instead of stairs at entrances to accommodate pets with mobility challenges.
  • Clear out hazards: Pets with vision problems risk bumping into furniture or tripping over objects. Keep their living space free of obstacles to prevent accidents.
  • Improve walkability: Older pets often struggle on slippery floors. Place rugs and non-slip mats on wood or tile surfaces to improve traction and prevent falls.
  • Consider outdoor modifications: Make outdoor spaces accessible for your senior pets. Eliminate hills, use artificial turf or remove stairs if your tenured companion still enjoys outdoor time.

Ensuring Senior Pet Wellbeing with Emotional Support

Caring for your senior pet’s emotional wellbeing is just as important as their physical health. Pets thrive in loving and supportive environments. As a pet parent, it’s essential to be patient with your senior pets, particularly during their adjustment to your home. With dedicated care and attention, you can ensure their remaining years are filled with joy and happiness.

Benefits of Adopting Senior Pets

Senior Pets are Less Likely to Get Adopted, You Can Change This 

By adopting an older pet, you not only make a compassionate choice but also help break a cycle in adoption that leaves many deserving animals without homes. Beyond gaining a new friend, you’re setting a positive example for others to consider adopting senior pets as well. 

May Require Less Training 

Senior pets will likely have some basic training under their belts. They know the basic rules and behaviours from their previous homes and are often accustomed to being around people and other animals. Plus, they rarely dig or chew, instead preferring to lie in sunny spots by windows or at your feet. 

Great Companions for Pet Owners of All Ages 

Senior pets seem to know when you’ve done them a great kindness. Their gratitude is palpable, making them wonderful companions for pet owners of any age. Whether you’re a young professional seeking a calm companion or recently retired and craving a furry friend for naptime snuggles, senior pets fit the bill perfectly! 

Adopting Senior Pets with HSGN 

Bringing a senior pet into your family can be incredibly fulfilling. These often overlooked animals tend to spend longer periods in shelters instead of enjoying their twilight years in a loving home. Trust us, and you’ll discover that love knows no age limit. Adopting a senior pet from HSGN can bring immense joy and gratitude into your life. Once you make that connection, your life will be forever changed. Ready to adopt? Explore our current senior pets available for adoption. If you have any questions about adopting senior pets or adoption in general, feel free to reach out to us.