If you are like most Americans, your pets are part of your family and you take care of them in the same way you do your children. You make sure they get the right food, go to the vet on a regular basis, and get the exercise and love they need to be healthy and happy. However, many pet owners fail to notice the signs of the most common illnesses and injuries in their pets as they grow older. If you aren’t quite sure what you need to be looking for, read on below for a few of the common illnesses to look for in your cats and dogs as they age.
Dogs: Mast Cell Tumors
A dog mast cell tumor is the most common canine skin cancer. The good news is that if you catch the tumor in time, it is possible to get rid of it. This is something that needs to be watched for in young and old dogs alike, but even more so as your beloved canine ages.
Dogs and Cats: Ear Mites
Again, the problem of ear mites can affect a young or an older pet. Ear mites affect the ears of your beloved pet and if not treated can lead to problems. Luckily, if found in time, ear mites are completely curable whether through visiting your vet or holistic methods.
Dogs: Arthritis
As your canine pal starts to age, his joints are going to get stiff, just like yours are. Symptoms that your dog has arthritis are listed below.
- Licking or chewing at an affected joint
- Limping
- Not moving around as much as he used to
- Avoiding going up and down stairs
- May become irritable or aggressive
If your older pup is exhibiting any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your vet. There are medications to help, along with a change in diet and exercise habits.
Cats: Kidney Disease
One of the most common conditions in senior cats is kidney disease. It is possible that you will notice the cat drinking more and urinating more among the other symptoms listed below.
- Loss of weight as toxins build up in their blood
- Lose their ability to urinate
While kidney disease in cats is not reversible, if it is caught early enough it is possible to slow the disease with a special diet. If your cat suddenly cannot urinate, it is considered an extreme emergency and you need to get to your vet as soon as possible.
These are just a few of the common problems to look for in your pets, now and as they get older. From mast cell tumors to kidney disease, the best course of action in all of these conditions is to get help as soon as possible with early detection and a trip to the vet for treatment.
