The health of senior dogs should be monitored more closely than that of younger dogs, as they are more susceptible to certain diseases and illnesses.
Common health issues in senior dogs can include arthritis, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, digestive problems, obesity, hearing and vision loss, and dental disease.
Knowing the signs and symptoms of these health issues, as well as the treatments available, will help you ensure that your senior dog lives a long and healthy life.
Arthritis
Arthritis is one of the most common health issues in senior dogs, and is caused by the deterioration of joint cartilage. Arthritis can cause pain and stiffness in the joints and can lead to lameness and difficulty walking. Symptoms of arthritis may include limping, reduced activity, reluctance to move, decreased appetite, and pain when touched. Treatment for arthritis may include medications such as glucosamine and chondroitin, physical therapy, regular exercise, and weight management.
Cancer
Cancer is a serious and potentially life-threatening health issue in senior dogs. Common types of cancer in dogs include lymphoma, leukemia, mast cell tumors, and osteosarcoma. Symptoms of cancer can vary depending on the type of cancer, but may include unexplained weight loss, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and abnormal lumps or bumps. Treatment for cancer may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, and/or immunotherapy.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body is unable to use the insulin it produces efficiently. Symptoms of diabetes in dogs may include excessive thirst and urination, weight loss, increased appetite, and lethargy. Treatment for diabetes in dogs may include insulin injections, dietary modifications, and regular exercise.
Heart Disease
Heart disease is one of the most common health issues in senior dogs, and can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, age, and diet. Symptoms of heart disease in dogs may include coughing, difficulty breathing, weakness, lethargy, and unexplained weight loss. Treatment for heart disease may include medications, dietary modifications, and surgery.
Kidney Disease
Kidney disease is a serious and potentially life-threatening health issue in senior dogs, and can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, age, and diet. Symptoms of kidney disease may include increased drinking and urination, weight loss, vomiting, and lethargy. Treatment for kidney disease may include medications, dietary modifications, and fluid therapy.
Digestive Problems
Digestive problems can be common in senior dogs, and can be caused by a variety of factors, including diet, age, and diseases. Symptoms of digestive problems in dogs may include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Treatment for digestive problems may include dietary modifications, medications, and supplements.
Obesity
Obesity is a serious health issue in senior dogs, and can lead to a number of other health problems. Symptoms of obesity in dogs may include an increase in weight, difficulty breathing, and lethargy. Treatment for obesity may include dietary modifications, increased exercise, and medications.
Hearing and Vision Loss
Hearing and vision loss can be common in senior dogs, and can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, genetics, and disease. Symptoms of hearing and vision loss may include difficulty responding to commands, difficulty navigating around the house, and difficulty seeing or hearing. Treatment for hearing and vision loss may include medications, supplements, and/or hearing aids or glasses.
Dental Disease
Dental disease is a common health issue in senior dogs, and can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, genetics, and diet. Symptoms of dental disease may include bad breath, difficulty eating, and bleeding or inflamed gums. Treatment for dental disease may include regular brushing, dental chews and treats, and professional dental cleanings.
By monitoring your senior dog’s health and being aware of the common health issues in senior dogs, you can help ensure that your dog lives a long and healthy life. If you notice any of the signs and symptoms of these health issues, it is important to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
