Geriatric Care

What to expect as your pet ages

Pets may age faster than humans, but they make up for it by fitting a lot of living into their years. With the right WA vet team looking after their health, a good diet, and plenty of play time your pet can enjoy a long and happy life by your side.

Just like humans, pets experience changes and challenges as they age. With regular vet checks and a tailored healthcare plan, your beloved pet will stick around for many years after reaching seniority.

From dog arthritis treatments to bespoke nutrition plans and health monitoring, Epsom Avenue Veterinary Clinic provide compassionate care for dogs, cats and other small animals in their later years.

Common health complaints to look out for in older pets include:

Metabolic changes

It’s not uncommon for dogs, cats and small animals to slow down with advanced age. This will require a lifestyle adjustment for both you and them: for example special food, shorter walks, lower intensity exercise, and assistance getting in and out of the car.

Joint problems

Dog arthritis treatments are one of the most sought services for older dogs. Arthritis injections ease stiffness and help to maximise comfort for your aging pooch.

Hearing and vision

Cataracts and hearing loss affect older geriatric pets. Our pets unfortunately can’t vocalise their woes nor always understand what is happening to them, so it’s up to you to look for signs of cloudy eyes or diminished hearing.

Dental needs

You may find your pet develops an aversion to hard foods they used to enjoy. If you are concerned about a loss of appetite, contact Epsom Avenue Veterinary Clinic for a consultation.

Behaviour changes

Older pets may begin to exhibit more anxiety and neediness in response to discomfort with a changing environment. They may also begin to snap unexpectedly, which could be a sign of acute pain.

Being aware of the changes helps you and your WA vet to make plans that improve your pet’s quality of life. Scheduling regular dog arthritis treatments, for example, is just one way our vets can help your best friend age gracefully.

Behaviours to look out for

Pets age at different rates. What is considered old for a large dog – 6 to 10 years old, depending on the breed – is still young for small dogs and cats. The general signs your pet is progressing into old age include:

• Reduced activity level
• More time sleeping
• Inappropriate urination
• Pacing or wandering
• Hearing loss
• Mood changes
• Aversion or inability to jump
• Appearing disoriented
• Appetite loss

Why you should choose Epsom Avenue Veterinary Clinic to vaccinate your pet

The Epsom Avenue Clinic team of vets have been providing high quality care for pets of all ages for a combined 60+ years. Our personalised, compassionate approach to care means your pet will be given the best care during their golden years.

For a consultation and tailored health plan provided by WA vets who truly care about your pets’ comfort and wellbeing.

Contact Epsom Avenue Veterinary Clinic via the form below or call 08 9277 2231.