As your pet’s age, you may notice them starting to slow down. Maybe they have trouble chasing that ball that at one time they could chase for hours. Maybe they suddenly struggle with things that used to be simple, like getting up on the couch or climbing the stairs. Or maybe your pet’s behaviour seems to have changed, not acting quite like themselves recently. Senior pets can show pain in many ways, and it’s important for us to try to recognize them so we can help them feel more comfortable and keep them feeling young.
Some signs that your senior pet could be in pain are behavioural changes, obsessive grooming, difficulty sitting, lying down or walking, sleeping a lot, slipping on uncarpeted floors/slick surfaces, panting and vocalizing. Some pets are very good at masking pain as well; sometimes, it can be difficult to know if they are experiencing pain. If you notice any of these signs or notice that your pet doesn’t seem like himself/herself, it’s time for a check-up!
Things like diet changes, more frequent vet check-ups and changes to their home environment could help you keep your senior pet happy and healthy! An exam with one of our vets can help identify any issues and help you learn what options are available for your pet, as well as what changes could be made to make your senior pet more comfortable and pain-free.
Written by: Waterview Animal Hospital
