A few weeks ago (TPC 25 January, 2015) we alluded to some physical changes which take place relative to our pets, specifically dogs and cats.
Today we’ll deal with these changes in more detail.
Skin and hair coat changes
As with people, older dogs/cats may start to show gray hair; this most commonly occurs on the muzzle and around the eyes. The hair coat may become thinner and duller; but, this can also be a sign of disease or a nutritional deficiency. Fatty acid supplements may help restore some of the lustre to the coat. If the hair coat of an older dog/cat changes significantly, the dog/cat should be checked by a veterinarian. Older dogs/cats may need to be groomed more often, with special attention given to the anal area. Grooming is a great way for you to spend some enjoyable time with your older companion animal, who will love the attention.
The skin of the older dog/cat may become thinner, and thus more subject to injury. Some older pets, develop multiple benign tumours of the skin, which are generally not removed unless they become easily bruised. Cancerous tumours of the skin can also occur. Dry skin can be a problem for older dogs/cats and, again, fatty acid supplements may be beneficial.
Calluses (thickened skin)
It is common for older, large breed dogs to develop calluses on their elbows. Part of the reason for this is the tendency of older dogs to be less active. If they lie on hard surfaces, calluses are more likely to develop. Providing a soft dog bed, can help prevent calluses.
Brittle nails and
thickened foot pads
Just as we see changes in the hair coat, we can also see thickening of the foot pads and changes in the nails of older dogs/cats. They may tend to become brittle. Care must be taken in clipping the nails of older dogs/cats, and they may need to be clipped more often, since older inactive dogs/cats are less likely to wear their nails down through activity.
Decreased mobility
and arthritis
Arthritis is a common occurrence in older dogs/cats, especially large breed dogs and breeds which have a tendency to have intervertebral (IV) disc disease such as Dachshunds and Bassets. Dogs who injured joints earlier in their life also have a tendency to develop arthritis as they age. As in people, arthritis in dogs/cats may only cause a slight stiffness, or it can become debilitating. Pets may have difficulty going up and down stairs or jumping into the car.
Chondroitin and glucosamine can be beneficial to support healthy joints. Some anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as aspirin and Rimadyl are often recommended for dogs with arthritis. (Do NOT give your cat any type of pain reliever unless prescribed by your veterinarian.)
As with muscles in people (if you do not use them, you lose them), older dogs/ cats who are inactive will lose muscle mass and tone. This may make it more difficult for them to move, so they move less, and a vicious cycle starts. Exercise for an older dog/cat is important for the health of the muscles, as well as the heart, digestive system, and attitude. Exercise routines can be adapted according to the dog’s abilities. Swimming and several short walks a day may help to maintain and strengthen the dog’s muscles.
Dental disease
Dental disease is the most common change we see in older dogs/cats. Studies show that even by age three, 80 per cent of dogs exhibit signs of gum disease. Routine dental care including brushing their teeth, can help keep dental disease to a minimum. Dogs/cats who have not received proper dental care can develop significant dental disease as they age and may develop life-threatening complications. A dental care programme should consist of brushing, regular dental checkups, and professional cleaning as needed.
Decreased gastrointestinal
motility (constipation)
As dogs/cats age, the movement of food through their digestive tract slows. This can result in constipation. Constipation is more common in dogs/cats who may experience pain while defecating such as those with hip dysplasia or anal gland disease. Inactivity can also contribute to constipation. Constipation can also be a sign of some serious disease conditions and a dog/cat experiencing constipation should be evaluated by a veterinarian. Laxatives or diets containing increased fibre may be prescribed. It is important these dogs/cats drink plenty of water.
Some older dogs/cats may also be more prone to stomach upsets.
Decreased ability to
fight off disease
As a dog/cat ages, the immune system does not function as effectively and the older dog is more prone to develop infectious diseases; and the infection in an older dog/cat is usually more severe than a similar one in a younger dog/cat. It is important to keep your older dog/cat current on vaccinations.
Decreased heart function
As a dog’s/cat’s heart ages, it loses some efficiency and cannot pump as much blood in a given amount of time. The valves of the heart lose some of their elasticity and also contribute to a decreased pumping efficiency, especially in small breeds. Some of these heart changes are expected, however, more severe changes can occur, especially in dogs/cats who had minor heart problems when they were young. Various medications are available depending upon the type and severity of disease. Speak to your vet before you go rushing off to a pharmacy.
We’ll continue with these physical changes next week.
Please implement disease preventative measures (vaccinations, routine dewormings, monthly anti-Heartworm medication, etc) and adopt-a-pet from the GSPCA’s Animal Clinic and Shelter at Robb Street and Orange Walk, if you have the wherewithal to care well for the animals. Do not stray your unwanted pets, take them to the GSPCA’s Clinic and Shelter instead. If you do not wish your pet to have puppies or kittens, you may exploit the GSPCA’s free spay and neutering programme. If you see anyone being cruel to an animal, or if you need any technical information, please get in touch with the Clinic and Shelter by calling 226-4237.
