While preventing
the signs and symptoms of aging is a prevalent concern among many
people, a surprising number are unaware that their pets undergo
a similar aging process. More than one-third of pet owners do
not even know when their pet will reach senior status.
Here are the top-five steps to ensure that every pet ages gracefully:
1. Determine your pet's senior status. While the rate of aging
in cats is similar across breeds, many differences are noted among
different dog breeds. According to the American Veterinary Medical
Association, by age 2, most pets have already reached adulthood.
By age 5, they are considered middle age, and at 7, they've started
their senior years. Large-breed dogs begin the aging process a
lot sooner and could reach senior status as early as 5 years of
age. Overweight pets age faster, so be sure to know the optimal
weight for your companion.
2. Maintain a healthy weight. While obesity tips the scale of
self-concern among humans, pet owners are not always as concerned
about maintaining their pet's healthy weight. Obesity can exacerbate
aching joints and may cause many health-threatening conditions
such as diabetes, intolerance to heat and exercise, and decreased
immune ability that can lead to shorter life spans. Adjust food
intake, offers toys instead of treats, and cut out table scraps
and overtreating.
3. Pay attention to cognitive function. Incidence of Cognitive
Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) has increased as life spans increase
in the pet population. Exercise ia a good way to improve cognitive
function in aged pets, but dietary intervention, such as supplements
with antioxidants (vitamins E, C and beta-carotene) and omega-3
fatty acids is aldo beneficial.
4. Nutritional supplements can also improve health needs.
5. Continue regular wellness checks. Biannual vet visits can
help prevent and detect age-related ailments and disease.
March 11, 2008 |
