Cognitive dysfunction in dogs is one of the many challenges they may face as they age. Nicknamed ‘dogzheimers’, canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) causes dogs to become confused, disorientated, anxious and even incontinent. It should not be ignored by pet owners...
Cognitive dysfunction is cats occurs in up to 28 percent of cats between the ages of 11 and 15, and 50 percent of cats over the age of 15, studies show, although it is not as common as in dogs. The exact causes of declining mental function in older cats cannot always...
Winter illnesses in pets are not necessarily season-specific but they do tend to occur with greater frequency during the colder months. Taking steps early on to prevent or contain them can make a big difference to how your pet responds, and to his quality of life....
My pet is always thirsty. She drinks wherever she finds water, even from the pond and my glass. If dogs or cats are emptying their water bowls quickly or searching for water at places they don’t usually, such as the swimming pool or outside pond, they are most likely...
Older dogs, like people, begin to suffer a range of illnesses as they age. Many of these ailments aren't detected until they are far advanced which means treatment is probably going to cost a lot and success is not guaranteed. That's why veterinarians the world over...
As medical science extends the lifespan of pets, age-related cognitive decline in cats and dogs is on the rise. Clinical signs associated with cognitive dysfunction include disorientation, social interactions, sleep-wake cycle disturbances, house soiling, activity...
Understanding a senior cat's needs is essential if we want to prolong their lives comfortably and happily. These top 10 tips will help you do just that. 1. Schedule regular wellness check-ups Develop a close relationship with your cat’s veterinarian while your cat is...
My dog is limping but he's healthy. That's a refrain that vets hear time and again. What pet owners don't realise is that limping can be a sign of arthritis but because pets are good at hiding their pain, you may not be aware of it until the disease has progressed. My...
How to keep your cat healthy from birth to old age need not involve expensive veterinary fees; nor is it particularly complicated. The key to good health is prevention and the earlier you start, the easier - and cheaper - it is to keep your cat healthy well into his...
Osteoarthritis is commonly associated with elderly humans but it is also relatively common in pets, particularly as they age. It is a chronic, degenerative joint disease that makes movement difficult and painful. Though it is more common in cats and dogs aged 6 and...
Senior cats, like people, need more focussed healthcare and attention as they age. Most vets consider cats 'senior' from the age of 7 and will recommend six-monthly wellness checkups rather than the usual annual veterinary exam. This is because cats are very good at...
Workouts are more commonly associated with humans and Virgin Active but pets, particularly those that are ageing, need to maintain an active lifestyle too. Regular exercise promotes muscle strength, joint flexibility and overall health and is particularly important to...