2020-04-01 Reader\'s Digest AUNZ

Extra weight can predis
to heart disease anddia
as contributing to osteo
Keep an eye on theirwe
advise your vet of any
significant changes.

CHANGES IN BEHAVI
AND HEALTH Pets inev
slow down as they age
but these changes can
sometimes be symptom
of underlying issues.Watchfor
changes such as excessivethirst
and/or urination andlossof
housetraining, difficulty getting up,
climbing stairs or getting into the
car. Also, the appearance of lumps
or bumps, bad breath and bleeding
gums, diarrhoea or vomiting, as
well as changes in sleep patterns
can all be reasons for concern.
Pets can suffer from dementia-like
illnesses as they age. If your pet
appears confused, forgets basics like
toilet training, starts to bark or howl
or becomes aggressive, a vet check-
up should be your first step.

GENERAL COMFORT Elderly

dogs are less able to cope with

extremes of temperature, so take

care to keep them comfortableon

hot days and away from dampand

draughts in cold weather. Grooming

remains important and is alsoan

ideal opportunity to check forany

unusual lumps or bumps, fleas,skin

problems or pressure sores. Yourvet

will be able to recommend adiet

and treatments to ensure your‘best

friend’ enjoys a comfortable life.

posethem

abetesaswell

arthritis.

ight and

OUR

vitably

ms

Older dogsandcatsrequire

adjustments totheirdailyregime

Ask your vet

about medication to

relieve the discomfort

of aching joints and

stiff muscles.

Buy a ramp to assist

your dog with mobility

issues to get in and

out of the car.

Place pieces of carpet

or bedding where your

dog rests to help them

rise from slippery floors.

Help cats with

grooming, particularly

beneath their tailsand

around hind leg areas.

Check toenails, they

may not wear downdue

to reduced activityand

may need trimming.

HOW TO MAKE OLDER PETS MORE COMFORTABLE

dcatsrequire

19

Pets