Geriatrics

That little kitten you brought home years ago now prefers to curl on the couch instead of climbing the curtains. Maybe your dog seems stiffer in the cold weather. Fading sight and loss of hearing are other signs that senior status is creeping up on your pet.

Pets age at a quicker rate than humans. Using the charts below, you can see the age your cat or dog in relation to human years.

Cat Age	Human Age
6 months	10 years
8 months	13 years
1 year	15 years
2 years	24 years
4 years	32 years
6 years	40 years
8 years	48 years
10 years	56 years
12 years	64 years
14 years	72 years
16 years	80 years
18 years	88 years
20 years	96 years
21 years	100 years

Blue indicates senior and red indicates geriatric.

A dog’s age in human years

Age	Up to 20 lbs	21–50 lbs	51–90 lbs	Over 90 lbs
5	36	37	40	42
6	40	42	45	49
7	44	47	50	56
8	48	51	55	64
9	52	56	61	71
10	56	60	66	78
11	60	65	72	86
12	64	69	77	93
13	68	74	82	101
14	72	78	88	108
15	76	83	93	115
16	80	87	99	123
17	84	92	104
18	88	96	109
19	92	101	115
20	96	105	120

Blue indicates senior and red indicates geriatric. Chart developed by Dr. Fred L. Metzger, DVM, State College, PA. Courtesy of Pfizer Animal Health.

Tantramar Vet staff member with cat Improvements in medical care, nutrition and preventative therapy mean that pets are living longer and happier lives. Having your furry friend enjoy their golden years involves a good balance between homecare and professional veterinary treatment.

As your pet gets older, yearly examinations are critical. Too often a minor issue can escalate into a potentially life threatening condition if left too long.

Obesity

As the years pass, you may notice that Spot’s girlish figure has slowly disappeared. Obesity is a major concern in all pets, especially our seniors. Carrying those extra pounds decreases lifespan and increases the likelihood of certain conditions including diabetes and liver disease. Nutritional consultations are available to discuss what would best suit the needs of your pet.

Oral Care

Another issue with the older pet is oral care. Especially common in older pets, gingivitis and tartar build up can lead to tooth loss, difficulty eating and can be the source of infection which can affect your whole pet’s health. All of these concerns can be examined during your visit and if needed a dental procedure scheduled.

Diabetes

Diabetes can occur in both cats and dogs. Signs can include increased thirst and hunger. There are however, many conditions which have similar symptoms so it is best to have an exam and blood work completed.

Arthritis

Just like in humans, arthritis can decrease enjoyment in life. Wear and tear on joints can make playing, swimming or even going for a walk more difficult. Arthritis, does not however mean an end to these activities. Changes in the type and duration of exercise along with weight loss will usually help lessen the effects of arthritis. In addition there are anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory medications available in both liquid and pill form. There are supplements available which also seem to help.

Skin and Coat

As pets age, their skin and coat condition deteriorates. Cats tend to groom themselves less meaning that regular brushing sessions are needed to prevent the build up of mats which, if left untreated, may require sedation in order to shave affected areas. Quality nutrition and grooming can play a vital role in the maintenance of your pet’s skin and hair health. Quite often, skin conditions can be linked to an underlying medical problem such as hypothyroidism in dogs. Therefore, a trip to your veterinarian is beneficial to rule out such disorders before beginning symptomatic treatment.

Kidneys

Just like us, as our pets age their kidneys decrease in their ability to flush the body. Decreased kidney function is a condition that will affect most animals as they reach senior status. Evaluation of kidney function through urinalysis and blood work allow both owner and veterinarian to make an informed decision of the course of action needed; whether medication or just a change in nutrition.

The Tantramar Veterinary Hospital prides itself on having the senior citizens of the pet world represent a large portion of its clientele. If you think it’s time for your older friend to come in for a senior exam or to discuss an ongoing condition don’t hesitate to give us a call.

Think it might be time for a senior exam?

Check all that apply

My pet:

Is drinking more than usual
Seems to get lost
Isn’t acting him/herself
Has difficulty finding the door or car
Doesn’t respond to verbal commands
Shows signs of pain
Sleeps more in a 24 hour period
Sleeps less in a 24 hour period
Has difficulty climbing stairs/getting up
Persistently vocalizes
Seems to shake/have tremors
Is stiff or limping
Has increased urination
Has accidents in the house when previously housebroken
Does not interact with us as much
Is eating more/eating less
Has lost/gained noticeable weight
Is panting excessively
Has new lumps or has lumps that are growing
Is tearing and rubbing their eyes more than usual
Has a coat that is becoming greasy, dry or flaky
Is starting to lose its hair

If you answered yes to one or more of these questions it may be time for a senior exam. Please bring this list with you.

Age	Up to 20 lbs	21–50 lbs	51–90 lbs	Over 90 lbs
5	36	37	40	42
6	40	42	45	49
7	44	47	50	56
8	48	51	55	64
9	52	56	61	71
10	56	60	66	78
11	60	65	72	86
12	64	69	77	93
13	68	74	82	101
14	72	78	88	108
15	76	83	93	115
16	80	87	99	123
17	84	92	104
18	88	96	109
19	92	101	115
20	96	105	120

Age	Up to 20 lbs	21–50 lbs	51–90 lbs	Over 90 lbs
5	36	37	40	42
6	40	42	45	49
7	44	47	50	56
8	48	51	55	64
9	52	56	61	71
10	56	60	66	78
11	60	65	72	86
12	64	69	77	93
13	68	74	82	101
14	72	78	88	108
15	76	83	93	115
16	80	87	99	123
17	84	92	104
18	88	96	109
19	92	101	115
20	96	105	120

Age	Up to 20 lbs	21–50 lbs	51–90 lbs	Over 90 lbs
5	36	37	40	42
6	40	42	45	49
7	44	47	50	56
8	48	51	55	64
9	52	56	61	71
10	56	60	66	78
11	60	65	72	86
12	64	69	77	93
13	68	74	82	101
14	72	78	88	108
15	76	83	93	115
16	80	87	99	123
17	84	92	104
18	88	96	109
19	92	101	115
20	96	105	120