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ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL
Older Pets
Pets aged 7-8yrs plus is equivalent to 50-60 human years old. A human at the age of 50-60 years is beginning to show a few signs of ageing and should be visiting the Doctor at least every 2 years for a general check up.
As you are probably aware the dog and cat age much more quickly than a human. It therefore it goes without saying that ‘SENIOR’ pets require more frequent check ups to detect early signs of wear & tear. This enables these conditions to be treated before they become too severe and sometimes irreversible.
Deterioration in health in the older animal may include any of the following:
· Skeletal system (arthritis in particular)
· Heart/lungs
· Kidneys/liver
· Teeth
· Tumours (skin, abdominal & bone)
· Eyes
· Hormonal (especially thyroid & diabetes)
· Behavioural problems (e.g. dementia)
At this clinic we recommend 6 monthly check ups once an animal reaches its senior years.
During these visits we will give your animal a “thorough overhaul” and sometimes recommend a few tests.
Sometimes a simple change of diet to meet the needs of the older animal will be all that is needed.
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