Animals cannot tell us when something is bothering them or if they are hurting. It is up to us to watch for signs and learn their behavior, so we can spot when something is not right. As pets age, spotting signs of discomfort or pain becomes more challenging, as some age-related illnesses present no visible signs of disdain. That is why it is vital to schedule regular visits to your local veterinarian to keep up with your pet’s health and catch any abnormalities before they progress and become life-threatening.
Age-Related Health Problems
Similar to humans, as pets age, their immune systems weaken, and they become more susceptible to degenerative diseases and other illnesses. While some of these issues are not immediately life-threatening, such as blindness, hearing loss, or diabetes, they require a great deal of professional attention to keep your pet comfortable.
More severe issues, such as various types of cancers and heart, liver, or kidney disease, pose a serious threat to your animal’s well-being. These illnesses may not be curable in some cases, but if they are diagnosed early, your pet can still live a happy, fulfilling life with the help of your veterinarian’s treatment plan.
Veterinary Care for Senior Pets
Having a reliable veterinarian closely follow your pet throughout their life is crucial, as it grants us insight into our pet’s medical situation. When a dog or cat is younger, they typically only need to visit the veterinarian once annually to ensure they are in good health. Apart from that one yearly visit, they are only brought in again if they fall ill or get injured.
As your pet enters the golden years of their life, visiting the veterinarian more frequently becomes a necessity. With age, comes age-related complications, some of which only a professional can diagnose.
To keep your pet healthy and living without pain or discomfort, it is imperative to consult your veterinarian to schedule an appointment for your furry companion.