Any physical or behavioral changes in your senior pet could be significant. Disorientation, changes in sleep or loss of housetraining could be indications of a health problem. Some of these include canine arthritis or canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome, common senior diseases that can be managed with medications. As pets get older, their nutritional needs change. Immune and digestive systems can become more delicate.
Pets can lose muscle mass, and gaining weight is common due to reduced activity levels.
Switching to a senior pet food may help promote a long, healthy life and provide enhanced levels of nutrients such as antioxidants, vitamin E and beta-carotene, plus fatty acids that are important to skin and coat health. The health of your animals' gums and teeth can be indications of health - dental or otherwise. Periodontal disease can be painful and cause other serious complications, including respiratory infections, liver disorders, kidney infection, inflammation of the heart and brain damage. Maintaining a familiar routine with your animal is an easy way to minimize stress in his or her life. In your pet's younger years, exercise is a key part of this routine and should not be forgotten as your pet grows older.