As a result of being fed a healthier diet, given quality veterinary care, and generally treated as a valued member of the family, pets are now living longer. According to the American Veterinary Medical Hospital, around a quarter of domestic dogs and cats are over 8 years old, the age at which they are considered to be senior, so more pet owners are looking after more mature animals. As they get older, their particular care needs evolve, and whether you are adopting a senior dog or continuing to care for an aging cat, making some small adaptations around the home can help to ensure they continue to live safely and comfortably under your roof.
Adding Ramps to Access A Favourite Sofa
Joint pain becomes a common issue in older pets and a recent study found that almost 40% of dogs have osteoarthritis. Senior dogs may struggle to climb stairs and a stair gate is a good idea to prevent them from trying without assistance. To ensure they can easily access other raised areas on the ground floor such as a favorite piece of furniture, dog stairs or a ramp could be a practical solution for dogs with limited mobility.
Ensuring Clear and Familiar Pathways
As pets get older, they may experience a decline in their senses. A dog or cat with visual impairment may start bumping into objects and appear anxious when navigating stairs or a crowded room or stairs. Keeping furniture in the same place and avoiding clutter or unexpected objects will help to create safe and familiar pathways around the home for your pet. Tactile rugs and mats can help guide pets around the house or act as markers for food bowls or litter trays. For some pets, extra local lighting such as a nightlight in a dark hallway will help to compensate for their reduced vision.
Providing Sheltered Warmth for Comfort
Descended from desert-dwelling wildcats, cats have a slightly higher body temperature than humans that they need to maintain in order to remain healthy. While this makes them renowned for always seeking out the warmest spot in the house, all pets can become more sensitive to the cold as they grow older and struggle to regulate their temperature effectively. A thick comfortable bed insulated from cold floors and positioned away from draughts will help senior pets to get the extra rest that they need. Older cats will also love the extra security provided by a cozy igloo bed while a heating pad, especially designed for animals, could help ease the pain of arthritis in a senior dog.
With an increase in the lifespan of family pets, making adjustments around the home in order to meet their evolving needs is the right thing to do! A simple ramp allows a pet with arthritis to access their favorite sofa, clear pathways help pets with visual impairments to navigate safely around the home, and a soft bed away from draughts will help to regulate their temperature and ease aching joints.
