Winter Wellness for Senior Pets: Caring for Aging Companions

If you’re a pet owner, you need to make sure you pay attention to your pet in the coldest months. Animals can’t communicate with us as easily as other people can. They can’t tell you if they’re feeling cold, sick, or anything else. However, by observing your pet and implementing preventative care, you can secure their well-being. If you have a geriatric pet, it’s especially important to pay close attention. If you live in the vicinity of Lancaster, OH, and be searching for a vet near you, feel free to stop by the Lancaster Animal Clinic.

Caring for Older Pets Come the Cold Weather

Older pets will often struggle to stay warm in the winter. Their fur may be thinning out, and their bodies may simply no longer be as capable when it comes to burning energy to generate heat. Many older pets lose their appetite and may lose weight. Fat can be an insulator in the winter, so thin animals may get cold more easily. It’s often smart to adjust your pet’s diet as they get older, and you may need to make further adjustments based on the seasons. Nutrition is a crucial component of preventative care, so make sure you talk with a veterinarian.

Older pets often have issues with balancing and physical activity, such as walking. A patch of ice could also lead to a nasty spill. When it comes to senior pet care, you should try to prevent your animals from suffering a slip and fall. You may need to clear out snow and ice, and when walking with them, take it slow.

If your geriatric pet is walking around outside and the ground has been salted, it’s a good idea to wash off his paws once you get inside. Not only will this stop your companion from tracking around salt, it will also prevent any irritation to your pet’s paws that the salt may cause.

If you need assistance with senior pet care and live in or near Lancaster, OH, get in touch with the Lancaster Animal Clinic. Our veterinarian can help with preventative care. Call today at (740) 687-1591.