Your pet has provided you with so much love and comfort over the years. It only makes sense that you want to make their later years as enjoyable as possible. Here are several ways to help your dog or cat be more comfortable as they get older:
Make time for regular exercise
Sure, your dog might not be able to join you for a long run like they used to, but movement is still important as your pet gets older. Casual walks and visits to the park are great ways to keep muscles strong and joints moving. Like dogs, cats also benefit from movement. If your senior cat is a real couch potato, try encouraging them to play with some new toys. Is your pet struggling with stiff and achy joints? A growing number of pet owners are trying CBD to help themselves and their pets with inflammation.
Change up their diet
Older pets tend to develop sensitive digestive systems, decreased appetite and subsequent weight loss. The usual diet that worked when they were younger might need to be replaced with something that’s more friendly to their stomach and/or designed to help with appetite. Always check with your veterinarian if a pet seems to be having trouble eating food, isn’t as hungry as they used to be or has lost weight. More pet owners also are asking their veterinarians about CBD oil as a way to help stimulate their pet’s appetite.
Make your home more accessible
As your pet gets older, your home can get harder to navigate. Keep an eye out for slippery floors where an older pet could slip and injure themselves. Check for sharp corners or tripping hazards that a dog or cat with worsening eyesight might encounter. A portable ramp could help Rover with the porch steps or with getting in and out of the car. A favorite sleeping area closer to the floor can help an older cat that can no longer leap into their favorite high spot like they used to. Taking steps to accommodate your pet can help reduce their stress as they encounter the limits of aging. As pets age, much like humans, they can become more anxious in certain situations. Some pet owners are exploring the ways CBD can help their pet better manage stress.
Consider a better bed
Puppies can plop down just about anywhere for a nap, but an aging pet would probably prefer something a bit softer. There are specialty beds that are thick and comfortable, perfect for your furry friend.