Senior Pet Care Guide

Here are some handy tips to help your senior pet

• Get regular veterinary check-ups to pick up health changes early.
• Feed a science-led diet best suited to their health needs. Follow packet recommendations for portion size. Only treat occasionally with top quality treats.
• Meet your pet’s daily water requirements of 256ml for a 5kg cat and 1072ml for a 20kg dog by providing multiple bowls of fresh water or try a pet fountain for pets attracted to running water.
• Help maintain muscle mass, mobile joints and a healthy heart with regular short exercise sessions. Try gentle exercise such as walking and swimming.
• Keep a close eye on their dental health. Try dental chews, daily brushing and a professional clean when required.
• As your pet’s immune system weakens with age, fleas and worms can pose greater health risks, so it’s important to keep on top of their parasite control.
• Keep clear paths for your pet by removing potential hazards and use a pet gate to confine them into a space when you are unable to supervise.
• As they age, having a supportive bed is important to the comfort and ease of getting up and down. Try an orthopaedic memory foam bed and a heating pad to provide warmth and ease joint pain.
• Show them love with touch and affection, massage can also provide relief for joint pain, while brushing will help your pet with grooming.
• Keep their mind active with food mazes, treat puzzles and interactive toys.
• Litter trays are best with high sides and a low entry point to allow easy access with privacy.
• Help your pet access their favourite spots which are hard to reach with ramps and raise food and water bowls slightly above floor level.

Learn more about supporting your senior pet here.