senior pet month: ways to support your aging pet

Senior pets are the best. At this point in their lives, they’ve calmed down a bit, have good house manners, they come to you when you call them, and they no longer have that urge to destroy chairs or socks. They usually just hang on the floor and couch, soaking in the sun rays, and being good boys and girls. 

If you have a senior pet, you might notice signs of aging like a slower pace and difficulty getting up or down. And as an owner of a senior pet, you probably want to do whatever you can to keep your pet comfortable and active. 

In this blog post, we’ll go over the common mobility issues senior pets experience and what owners can do to manage symptoms. 

Common pet mobility conditions

Osteoarthritis, which is the most common form of arthritis, is a joint condition caused by cartilage degradation. Both dogs and cats can be affected by this disease, which causes stiff joints, limping, and trouble getting up or down. The changes often happen gradually and subtly, which means you might not notice right away. While OA is a chronic disease with no cure, there are tools to help manage it, such as pain medication, nutrition, physical therapy, and weight control.

Obesity is also a significant factor in mobility. It’s not uncommon for pets to gain a few pounds as they age, but that excess weight can put extra strain on your dog’s or cat’s bones and joints, which makes it harder for them to get around. Other mobility conditions that can affect your aging pet include knee injuries as well as canine hip dysplasia, which usually affects larger breeds such as German Shepherds, Mastiffs, Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and Golden Retrievers. 

Ways to manage pet mobility conditions 

If you notice your pet moving at a slower pace, having trouble getting up and down off the couch or up and down the stairs, cleaning themselves less, or showing signs of pain, it’s time to talk to your veterinarian. They can work with you to better understand the cause of your pet’s mobility issues and what to do about it. 

Our affordable preventive care–focused Optimum Wellness Plans™ are a great way to support senior health. Our Special Care Optimum Wellness Plans for dogs and cats with chronic issues include unlimited office visits, comprehensive exams, vaccinations, and 24/7 chat capability with a veterinary professional.