Hours: Mon – Fri: 7:30 AM–6:00 PM | Sat: 9:00 AM–1:00 PM | Sun: Closed
It can be hard to admit when we see the signs of old age in our animal companions, but the fact is that most dogs are considered seniors when they hit seven, cats around nine. Pets age much more rapidly
than humans, which means diseases and illness progress quicker as well.
To ensure that your pet has the longest, healthiest, most comfortable life possible, AllPets Animal Clinic encourages you to bring your senior pet for exams and blood tests twice each year. This way, we can track how your pet is aging, and we’ll be more likely to catch any developing diseases before they’re big problems.
Blood tests are one of the most important parts of a senior exam. These blood screenings—often referred to as a “senior panel”— monitor red and white blood cell counts and reveal how well the kidney, liver, pancreas, and thyroid are functioning. Your vet may recommend a chest x-ray to ensure that the heart is a normal size and that there are no masses in the lungs.
Periodontal disease is always a threat to our pets’ health and comfort, and it’s particularly tough on older pets. That’s why a dental exam is always part of any senior pet screening as well.
Finally, make sure to let your vet know about any behavior changes in your pet. Once dogs and cat get to the geriatric stage, monitoring for signs of cognitive dysfunction—such as losing housebreaking, getting lost or wandering aimlessly—is very important.
OA is a type of arthritis that occurs when the tissue in your dog or cat’s joints starts to get worn down, causing bones to rub against one another. This not only makes it more difficult for your pet to get around, but OA can also cause severe pain. Without treatment, your pet’s pain can continue to get worse.
When it comes to osteoarthritis, feline companions may silently suffer. Cats are masters at concealing their pain, making it crucial for you, as their caretaker, to be vigilant. As the one who knows your cat’s playful nature and preferences better than anyone else, you are key in recognizing behavioral changes that could indicate osteoarthritis. Your veterinarian relies on your observations to provide a precise diagnosis. If your cat displays signs of pain related to osteoarthritis, take the initiative to discuss it with your vet and start helping your feline friend.
Learn more about the symptoms and signs of OA in your cat by reviewing the checklist.
AllPets Animal Clinic is proud to carry Solensia, the first and only FDAApproved treatment to control OA pain in cats. While cat OA isn’t curable, the pain from OA can now be effectively managed.
Solensia helps your cat get back to moving more freely again and stops OA pain from disrupting the unique bond they share with you in a once-monthly injection.
To schedule a senior pet wellness exam with AllPets Animal Clinic, call us at (712) 336-3647
