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3 tips for caring for your senior pet

It can be challenging to watch your beloved pet grow old. But just like people, pets age — and as a pet owner, it’s up to you to ensure your pet gets the care they need throughout their entire life. Senior pets may need some extra care, especially if they have difficulty moving about. So let’s take a closer look at a few important tips for caring for senior pets.

Focus on their diet: As pets age, their diet needs change. When they’re a young kitten or puppy, they need more calories to help them grow strong. But as they get older, they need fewer calories and may even need certain foods taken out of or brought into their diet. There are special foods that provide older pets with all of the nutrients they need with fewer calories so they don’t gain unnecessary weight.

Make them comfortable: If your older pet is having trouble moving around the house, it may be beneficial to make a few simple changes. You should get them food and water bowls they don’t have to bend over to reach and maybe even move their bed to the first floor of the house so they don’t have to use the stairs — investing in an orthopedic bed may be a good idea, too. You should also consider getting ramps to help them get up stairs into the house or even onto the couch. Making them comfortable will help them get around easier.

Talk to your vet: One of the most important things to do when caring for a senior pet is to take them to the local veterinarian regularly. It’s recommended that older pets visit the vet at least twice a year for check-ups. Seeing the vet regularly can help catch age-related health problems, like arthritis and dental issues. When you visit the vet, your pet will get a thorough exam and allow you to adjust taking care of them as needed. Your veterinary clinic can also provide further tips for making your pet happy and comfortable in their old age.

Watching our pets age can be hard, but it’s important to do whatever we can to keep them happy and comfortable. So make sure to invest in the appropriate local veterinary services and make changes in their diet or exercise plans as needed.

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