Signs of Aging in Pets and Animals

We now know that aging is caused by many of the same factors in pets as in people, free radicals, which are normal by-products of energy produced by the body. They are generally harmless but a certain percentage of these can casue cell oxidation that contributes to aging. As animals age, they - like people experience changes in their everday behavior, activity and their overall demeanor.

As the aging process escalates in the body you will notice a variety of behavior and physical changes begin to appear.

Animals begin to lose mobility, their immune system weakens, they develop a lower metabolism, and lose muscle and bone mass.

You can look for the following signs of aging in to appear in your dog or cat:

• joint aches and pains
• excessive panting after walks
• sleeping more
• difficulty hearing or less responsive when being called
• incontinence or bladder leaking
• weight loss
• difficulty seeing
• difficulty urinating
• increased thirst
• restless at night
• urinating more frequently
• eyes appear to have a slight blue or whitish haze over the pupils

Have you gotten your furry friend a sweater or coat to keep him or her warm this winter season? It may let him or her enjoy their walks with you a little bit more; remember the lower your dog is to the ground the more he/she feels the cold especially at the base of their spine near their tail. Also, if they are already experiencing arthritis for - bigger dogs as well.

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