As our furry friends grow older, their health becomes a top priority. It’s important to remember that senior pets require different care and attention than their younger counterparts. Geriatric veterinary care for pets is an essential part of ensuring their well-being, which includes pet wellness exams and veterinary oncology. However, chronic pain is one of the most common issues that senior pets face. Identifying and treating chronic pain in geriatric pets is the topic of this article.
Identifying Chronic Pain in Senior Pets
Chronic pain is a common problem in geriatric pets, but it can be difficult to diagnose because our furry friends can’t tell us when they’re in pain. If you catch any of the following changes in your pet’s behavior or routine:
- Reluctance to move or play
- Decreased activity levels
- Difficulty standing up or climbing stairs
- Limping or favoring certain limbs
- Changes in appetite or weight loss
- Restlessness or difficulty sleeping
- Vocalizing or whining when touched or picked up
Please contact your vet immediately if you observe any of these symptoms. Your geriatric veterinary care specialist can diagnose the source of your pet’s discomfort and suggest a course of treatment.
Managing Chronic Pain in Senior Pets
It is crucial to collaborate with your veterinarian in developing a pain treatment strategy once your pet has been diagnosed with chronic pain. Some common methods of relieving chronic pain in geriatric pets are as follows:
Medications
Medications are often used to manage chronic pain in senior pets. These can include:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) include aspirin, meloxicam, and carprofen.
- Opioids like tramadol and fentanyl
- Supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health
Your vet oncologist can determine the appropriate medication and dosage for your pet based on their condition and medical history.
Physical Therapy
Chronic discomfort in senior pets is often manageable with the help of physical therapy. Massage, stretching, and water therapy are all examples of this. Mobility, pain, and additional injury can all be helped by physical therapy.
Diet and Exercise
Chronic pain in geriatric pets can be ameliorated with careful dietary and physical activity management. Keeping your weight in check and engaging in regular physical activity helps ease the stress on your joints, allowing you to move around more freely and with less discomfort. Your pet’s unique demands will influence your veterinarian’s recommendations for feeding and activity during a dog checkup in Austin.
Acupuncture and Chiropractic Care
Acupuncture and chiropractic care can also be effective in managing chronic pain in senior pets. These alternative therapies can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote overall well-being. However, working with a veterinarian trained in these therapies is essential and can provide safe and effective treatment.
Conclusion
The health and happiness of senior pets rely heavily on specialized veterinarian treatment known as geriatrics. Our animal companions’ quality of life might be drastically reduced due to the prevalence of chronic pain. Identifying and managing chronic pain in senior pets can be challenging, but working with your veterinarian and observing changes in your pet’s behavior and habits can help. By developing a pain management plan that includes medications, physical therapy, diet and exercise, and alternative therapies, we can help our senior pets live comfortable and happy lives.