Helping our senior pets stay happy and healthy

As our pets age, they can suffer from a variety of conditions which can be painful and debilitating. Effectively managing any chronic pain conditions in our pets ensures that they can live a happy and comfortable life.

One of the most common causes of chronic pain in our pets is osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease – where the cartilage within the joint is worn away, leading to inflammation, pain and impaired mobility.

Chronic pain can develop when acute pain isn’t adequately managed, and other common causes of chronic pain in pets can include dental disease, chronic ear infections, nerve or spinal pain, and some metabolic conditions such as renal disease – causing kidney pain and changes to the pet’s normal behaviour.

Monitoring your pet for any indications of pain is important, such as noticing if your pet reacts differently to being patted at different locations on their body, observing any changes in their demeanour, or seeing them have difficulty getting up from resting.

As dogs and cats are quite effective at hiding their pain, it can sometimes be difficult to detect the underlying cause of chronic pain in its early stages. That’s why regular health checks with a veterinarian are so important, so that we can examine your pet, assess their behaviour and undertake any diagnostic investigations such as blood tests or imaging.

Our veterinarians will discuss with you the appropriate treatment options available to manage your pet’s condition, and also explain strategies for how you can help your pet at home. This might include things like ensuring their food and water is easily accessible, and making sure that they have the most appropriate bedding and the right amount of daily exercise.

Recognising when your pet appears to be in pain, seeking advice from our veterinary team and implementing the appropriate treatment will ensure that your pet remains happy and healthy into their older years.

Senior pets are the focus during April at Sydney Animal Hospitals with the opportunity for your pet to have a free senior pet arthritis check from a veterinary nurse and a geriatric profile blood test undertaken at a reduced price. This offer is valid until the 30^th April 2022 (T&C’s apply).

To book your free senior pet arthritis check from a veterinary nurse or for more information, please call our friendly veterinary team at your local Sydney Animal Hospitals SEE BELOW