At Lincoln Animal Hospital, we provide routine and emergency veterinary care for residents of Cypress, CA. We also offer comprehensive geriatric pet care for senior pets.
Cats are considered seniors when they reach their 10th birthday. However, the age varies with dogs, because larger breeds age faster than smaller breeds. Small species are considered seniors when they get 8 to 11 years old. Large and giant breeds are considered seniors at 6-9 years old.
Senior Wellness Exams
Your pet will need regular wellness exams throughout their lives. However, the exams for senior pets differ from those for younger pets.
Depending on your pet and age, they may need to visit the vet once to twice a year. In addition, they may need more frequent checkups and wellness exams if they have a chronic disease or health condition.
Vaccinations
Senior pets typically need fewer vaccinations, but there are still some vaccines that your furry friend should receive, including rabies. Again, you must speak to your vet about your vaccination schedule.
Blood Tests
Blood tests are an essential part of senior pet care. These tests are typically known as an old panel. These tests can give your veterinarian a record of your pet's previous tests, alerting them to a decline in organ functions.
Dental Care
Dental care is essential for pets of all ages but necessary for senior pet wellness. Dental conditions like gingivitis can affect your pet's organs, including the kidneys, liver, and heart.
Urgent Senior Pet Care
This emergency needs immediate care if your pet has abdominal swelling or abnormal bleeding. You should also visit the veterinarian if your pet has difficulty eating, swallowing, or breathing.
Lumps, bumps, or bruises can also be a warning sign of a problem, along with non-healing sores. Diarrhea or vomiting that doesn't resolve within 48 hours, or is severe, also requires prompt care.
The vet should also evaluate unexplained weight loss or weight gain, significant changes in their appetite, or changes in urination. If your pet is whining, limping, or showing other signs of pain, this also requires a check-up. Lastly, call your vet if your pet becomes lethargic, confused, disoriented, or loses balance.
Geriatric Pet Care at Lincoln Animal Hospital
Contact us at Lincoln Animal Hospital in Cypress, CA, if you have a senior pet. We offer senior pet care, including wellness exams, disease treatment, and condition management. We would be happy to help. Call our office at (714) 995-9200 to get the best care possible.
