by Suzyn Barron,
President of Warwick Valley Humane Society
Did you know, It’s National Adopt a Senior Pet Month to remind people of older cats and dogs that are in shelters and waiting to be adopted. You might ask at what age is a pet considered a senior? The answer varies depending on the breed and size of a dog but for cats it’s more arbitrary since their lifespan tends to be 12 to 15 years, yet many live to 18 or even beyond 20. There is no definitive answer but generally 7 to 10 years can be considered a senior. Although, “senior” usually denotes a change in a cat’s physical, mental, and nutritional changes rather than a specific age. And cats, like people all age differently noting that indoor cats live longer than outdoor cats since they face fewer risks and dangers.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), depending on a dog’s breed or type, a dog who is 6-8 years of age can be considered a senior dog. Large and giant breeds mature late and age much more quickly than small or toy breed dogs. “Research shows that larger dogs live for a shorter period of time when compared to smaller ones. For example, an Irish Wolfhound (average 115 pounds) has an average lifespan of seven years, while a Jack Russell Terrier (average of 15 pounds) can live up to 13-16 years. Cross-bred dogs have a longer lifespan than inbred dogs and “mutts” with at least two breeds tend to have the least health problems and live longer than their purebred counterparts” states Kimberly Alt, contributor to the Canine Journal.
As a pet ages, it’s natural for them to experience decreased mobility, possible vision changes and dietary needs. Some physical signs are greying muzzles, hazy eyes or dimmed irises, brittle nails, and dull unkempt or matted fur. Physical signs are loss of weight or muscle mass, appetite changes, loss of vision, hearing or taste, mobility issues and becoming prone to infections or illnesses and lumps and bumps. There are also behavioral signs including more vocalization, becoming less active, sleeping more, and appearing confused or disoriented. Cats don’t always show that something is wrong until their issues become more advanced, while dogs seem to be more demonstrative and vocal with their discomfort. Dental disease can affect a pet’s heart, kidneys, and overall health. Kidney, liver and thyroid diseases are common in dogs and cats. Many of these issues are treatable and manageable if identified, so as our pets age bi-annual veterinary exams can extend their lives.
A senior shelter cat on thyroid medication or a senior shelter dog requiring joint supplementation, or a special diet may end up living the rest of their lives in a cage or kennel because of the extra care they need despite being wonderful companions. Adopting a senior pet is a shorter commitment with a lasting impact on your heart and their lives.
Pets of the Week
male cat who was the “neighborhood
stray”” until he ended up thin and
matted. He has noisy sinusitis and
requires a prescription kidney diet and
a loving lap.
beagle who left in a dog park in August.
She’s friendly, vocal and still has lots of
energy. She’s a super senior who needs
to be your one and only.
Angora male rabbit who was used for
breeding. He is blind but finds his litter
box and food just fine. He’s quiet and
gentle and his fur is a silky texture that
will need to be brushed and may require
clipping to avoid matting.
