As pets grow older, their health needs evolve, requiring extra care and attention. In a dynamic city like Dubai, where the climate and lifestyle can impact pet health, it’s essential to adapt to these changing needs. At 2Feet4Paws, we’re dedicated to enhancing your pet’s well-being with tailored care, specialised treatments, and our exclusive membership plans designed for senior pets.
1. Arthritis: A Frequent Issue for Older Pets – especially dogs
While Arthritis is most often found in senior pets, it can affect dogs and cats of all ages. Recognising its early symptoms can make a big difference in managing their comfort and quality of life.
Dogs with arthritis may show signs such as limping or lameness, a stiff gait that becomes more pronounced after exercise or upon waking, and an evident hesitation or groaning when lying down or getting up. They might become wary of being touched around the affected joints, which can indicate discomfort or pain. Other subtle changes include muscle wasting around the limbs, increased tiredness, irritability, and frequent licking or chewing of the painful areas.
While arthritis can affect dogs in any environment, Dubai’s climate may play a role in exacerbating symptoms.
The high humidity and fluctuating temperatures between air-conditioned indoor spaces and the intense outdoor heat could add stress to already inflamed joints.
Additionally, inactivity due to the extreme hot weather in summertime can lead to muscle loss, which worsens joint instability. Keeping your dog active (like taking them for walks in the cooler evenings) with low-impact exercises, maintaining a healthy weight, and ensuring they are comfortable in both indoor and outdoor conditions can help alleviate the effects of arthritis. Monitoring your dog for these early signs and consulting our veterinarian can lead to better management of the condition.
2. Dental disease
Dental disease is a prevalent issue in senior pets, including dogs, cats, and even exotic animals like guinea pigs. In older pets, dental disease often results from years of accumulated plaque and tartar, leading to conditions like gingivitis and periodontal disease.
Watch out for the early signs of Dental Disease:
- Bad breath and Red or swollen gums
- Discoloured Teeth: Yellow or brown stains is due to tartar buildup.
- When your pet shows difficulty in chewing or swallowing, and they are reluctant to eat
- Facial Swelling: Signs of oral discomfort or pain.
- Advanced dental disease leading to tooth loss. So look out for any loose tooth
- In exotic pets like guinea pigs, signs may also include decreased appetite, weight loss, and excessive salivation.
As a leading provider of pet dental care in Dubai, we offer annual or bi-annual dental examination by our clinic will detect the problem early and we can also do a dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar.
Try incorporating an at-home care routine that includes brushing your pet’s teeth with pet-safe toothpaste. In Dubai, you’ll find a variety of pet-safe dental products readily available at local pet stores, or at our clinic.
Feed a balanced diet that supports dental health; consult our veterinarian for recommendations.
3. Nutrition: Adjusting Diets for Aging Pets
As pets age, their nutritional requirements change. Senior pets may need specialised diets to address their evolving health needs. In Dubai’s hot climate, ensuring proper hydration and balanced nutrition is crucial. With our pet nutrition consultation in Dubai through 2F4P membership, you’ll have access to personalised dietary consultations to create the perfect nutrition plan for your senior pet.
4. Kidney and Heart Health: The Importance of Early Detection
As pets age, their heart and kidney functions may decline, making early detection crucial. Regular check-ups, including blood tests, X-rays, and ultrasounds, can identify issues early.
At 2Feet4Paws Veterinary Clinic, we offer tailored diagnostic and treatment plans for senior pets, including exotic species like birds.
5. Mental Health: Supporting Cognitive Wellness
Cognitive decline is usually seen in behavioural changes, such as confusion, disorientation, altered sleeping patterns, or less interaction with the family. These changes can be difficult to notice but are important to address.
Cognitive decline in pets requires a holistic approach that combines medical care with home adjustments to improve their quality of life. Creating a safe space, providing mental stimulation through toys and training, maintaining a routine, and offering a brain-boosting diet rich in omega-3s and antioxidants are essential steps.
Caring for your senior pet involves monitoring, regular vet assessments, and customised treatments.
At 2Feet4Paws, our membership plans offer a wide range of benefits, from discounted treatments and consultations to health screenings tailored for senior pets.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
