At our veterinary clinic in Central Illinois, our vets provide comprehensive geriatric veterinary care for senior dogs and cats to help them feel healthy and comfortable in their golden years.
Geriatric Care for Senior Dogs & Cats
As they enter their golden years, our senior pets need routine preventive veterinary care and early diagnosis to help catch age-related health conditions before they become serious problems.
Diligent care can help bolster your pet's good health and extend their life as they age, so it's important for us to see them for regularly scheduled routine exams, even if they appear healthy.
Our experienced veterinary team is here to help. We can identify emerging health issues and offer proactive treatment early, while any problems can still be easily and effectively managed.
Is my pet considered 'old'?
While your pet may seem young and energetic, you may be surprised to learn that they are already a senior. In fact, cats and small to medium-sized dogs are typically considered seniors around the age of 7.
Because larger breed dogs generally have shorter lifespans, they are considered to be seniors by the time they reach 6 years of age.
Typical Health Problems
Better veterinary care, improved dietary options, and a few other factors have lead to our companion dogs and cats living far longer today than they have in the past.
While this is heartwarming, pet owners and veterinarians now face more age-related conditions than they did in the past.
We often see senior pets with these conditions come in to see us:
- Cancer
- Heart disease
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Urinary tract disease
- Joint or bone disorders
- Blindness and hearing loss
- Diabetes
- Senility
- Weakness
Geriatric Veterinary Care for Seniors
Your senior pet will be thoroughly examined by our vet, who will ask detailed questions about their home life which may give us valuable insight into his or her general physical health and condition.
Based on the results of the exam and our dialogue with you, we'll recommend a treatment plan that may include dietary changes, activities, and medications to help improve your senior pet's comfort, health, and well-being.
Routine Wellness Exams
Preventive care is critical to helping your senior pet live a happy, healthy, and fulfilled life. It also gives our veterinarians the chance to catch diseases early.
Early disease detection will also help preserve your pet's physical health, and catch emerging health issues before they develop into larger problems.
With regular physical exams, your pet will have the best opportunity to enjoy the quality of life he or she deserves.