Advancements in veterinary medicine, as well as an increased emphasis on preventive care, have dramatically increased the life expectancy and overall health of pets. While some health conditions are unavoidable, many are, at the very least, manageable and often treatable. Because pets age, on average, seven years for each year a human ages, proper preventive care is the key to ensuring that your pet spends as many healthy years as possible with you and your family.
Many conditions affecting geriatric pets (classified as more than ten years old) can be avoided or minimized with proper preventive care throughout a pet’s life. Banfield’s Applied Research and Knowledge (BARK) team found the most common diagnoses for geriatric pets in 2009 include the following, among others:
- Obesity
- Arthritis
- Periodontal disease (inflammation of the tissue surrounding the teeth)
- Cataracts
- Skin tumors
- Diabetes
- Cardiac (heart) diseases
Common geriatric conditions, such as obesity, can place undue strain on your pet’s internal organs and joints. If left untreated, obesity and periodontal disease can lead to the development of more serious problems, including heart disease, diabetes and/or arthritis. Pets with periodontal disease are more likely to be diagnosed with cardiac disease, which severely compromises your pet’s quality of life.
By taking steps to keep your pet at a healthy weight throughout its life, scheduling regular comprehensive exams and dental cleanings with your veterinarian, ensuring he/she receives advice and recommendations about proper diet and exercise, you will have the peace of mind that you are doing all you can to care for your pet as they transition through each life stage. Your veterinarian will also recommend that your pet undergo routine heartworm testing and prevention and remain up-to-date on vaccinations.
Many pets suffer from conditions in their geriatric years that could be avoided by consistently taking the above preventive care steps. If you have specific questions about your aging pet, speak with your Banfield veterinarian to schedule an appointment today.