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Aging Pets

How often have you heard about dog or cat years, typically viewing a pet year as seven people years? The reality is that dogs and cats age differently, based often on their breed and their weight.

Aging pets do require special care. Your veterinary will help you develop a complete health maintenance program for your older pet.

Senior years for pets can be determined by the size and weight of the dog.

Pet Type	Weight	Senior Years
Cats	Most Breeds	10-14 years
Small dogs	Less than 20 pounds	10-13 years
Medium dogs	21-50 pounds	8-12 years
Large dogs	51-90 pounds	7-10 years
Giant dogs	More than 90 pounds	5-9 years

Help your pet maintain his correct weight. Dogs may need fewer calories as they get older, and may need a diet lower in fat and higher in fiber. Cats don't have the same weight gain and loss patterns as dogs. Their energy requirements stay about the same, but may become thinner as they get older.

Regular exercise is very important to maintain bone strength, muscle tone and stamina. Daily walks and playtime is important for your pet. When your pet starts to slow down, you should shorten walks or try alternative activities like swimming. Your vet can help you determine appropriate levels of activity.

Dental care if very important at this stage as well. Eighty percent of older dogs and seventy percent of cats have gum disease.

Other changes that may occur include:

• Hearing and vision loss
• Brittle nails
• Weight gain or loss
• Dental disease
• Loss of hair, dull coat, graying hair
• Arthritis
• Constipation in cats
• Sensitivity to temperature changes
• Tumors
• Coughing
• Increased water consumption and urination
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Breast cancer in unspayed females
• Behavioral changes
• Prostate disease
• Cataracts in dogs
• Confusion and disorientation in dogs

A complete geriatric health program will preserve the life and quality of life of your older pet. See your veterinarian today.