November is National Senior Pet Month, a wonderful opportunity to recognize our older pets' joy in our lives. As pets age, they need extra care to stay healthy and comfortable. One of the best ways to show your love is by scheduling a senior wellness exam and bloodwork with your veterinarian. For cats and dogs, these examinations should start around the age of 7, as this is when pets enter their senior years and become more prone to age-related health issues.
Why Senior Pets Need Extra Care
Like humans, pets experience changes as they age, including:
Joint stiffness or arthritis
Cognitive decline or behavioral changes
Increased risk of heart, kidney, or liver disease
Vision and hearing loss
Because pets instinctively hide pain, some health issues may go unnoticed. Regular veterinary visits become even more critical as pets age, ensuring that conditions are detected early and managed effectively.
When Should Your Pet Begin Senior Exams?
Cats and Dogs: Senior wellness exams should begin at 7 years old.
Larger Breed Dogs: Giant breeds may require senior care even earlier, as their lifespans are shorter.
At this stage, pets should visit the vet at least once or twice a year for a thorough check-up, even if they appear healthy.
What Happens During a Senior Wellness Exam?
A senior wellness exam helps veterinarians monitor chronic conditions and detect early signs of disease. These check-ups typically include:
Physical examination: Assessment of the pet's eyes, ears, teeth, heart, lungs, joints, and weight.
Dental evaluation: Detecting dental disease that may impact overall health.
Diet and exercise advice: Recommendations to maintain a healthy weight and mobility.
Bloodwork: Routine testing to reveal underlying health problems that may not be visible.
Why Bloodwork Is Essential for Senior Pets?
Blood tests provide key insights into your pet’s internal health, enabling early diagnosis and proactive treatment. Common blood tests for senior pets include:
Complete Blood Count (CBC): Identifies infections, inflammation, or anemia.
Blood Chemistry Panel: Assesses kidney, liver, and thyroid function.
Glucose Test: Screens for diabetes.
Electrolyte Levels: Monitors hydration and organ function.
Routine bloodwork also helps establish a baseline for your pet, making it easier to track changes over time.
Proactive Care Makes a Big Difference
Monitor changes: Bring a list of any changes in behavior, appetite, or energy to your pet's exam.
Ask your vet about joint support: Supplements or medications may help alleviate joint pain and mobility issues.
Create a senior-friendly routine: Adjust exercise levels and introduce mental enrichment activities to keep your pet active and happy.
Make the Most of National Senior Pet Month
Senior pets give us years of love, companionship, and loyalty. Scheduling a wellness exam with bloodwork ensures they can continue living their golden years comfortably and with joy. Early detection of potential issues can improve their quality of life, giving them more happy moments together.
Don’t wait for your pet to show signs of illness! If your cat or dog is 7 years or older, now is the perfect time to schedule their wellness exam and bloodwork. Celebrate National Senior Pet Month by taking proactive steps toward your pet’s long-term health and happiness.
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