I thought I might take dedicate a little space to our pets' health: They, like us, are aging and may need a little more medical attention.
Dogs and cats are considered senior a bit earlier than we might think, according to a Kansas State University veterinarian. Susan Nelson, an assistant professor of clinical services, says cats are considered senior from ages 8-11 – 48-60 in human years. At 12 they are geriatric.
Small dogs, 0-20 pounds, become senior at 8 and geriatric at 11 – human equivalent of 50 and 62. Dogs that weigh 120 pounds or more are senior at 4 and geriatric at 6 – 49 and 69 in human years.
And when they age, they can get people-like illnesses, including diabetes, kidney disease, cancer, osteoarthritis, periodontal disease and heart disease.
Nelson recommends routine exams and tests to catch problems and routine vaccinations and preventative medicines such as heartworm pills. There are treatments for many of the maladies. And just as with people, she said exercise is important.
"Such actions obviously can't prevent all diseases, but when caught early, many diseases can be managed and extended good quality of life can be achieved," she said in a statement.
Nelson also noted that behavior can change. Pets may eat and play less, sleep more or become disoriented. They may become more fearful of thunderstorms, separation and children and may not be able to run and jump like they used to. She said avoid those things if they bother your pet and seek advice from a vet on behavior modification. Try a walk or swim to go easy on the joints.
You may also need a new soft place to sleep for worn joints and soft food if they have painful teeth. You may also need to move the litter box or turn on more lights. And, of course, she said make sure you give them lots of TLC.
Baltimore Sun file photo