Accessories for senior pets

Pets are living longer, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Besides the advances in clinical care, there are many accessories that can help to ensure a better quality of life for older animals.

The seniority of pets

The age at which a pet is considered to be ‘senior’ can vary, and so too can age-related health issues. These can range from being gradual and subtle, to rapid and obvious. Such health issues not only have an emotional impact (and often place a financial burden) on the owner, but also require careful consideration to help keep life as healthy and ‘normal’ as possible for the pet.

Thankfully, numerous products on the market are aimed at helping to enrich the lives of senior pets, not only by improving mobility, but also by promoting better cognitive skills.

Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is one of the most common problems in older dogs. This is often linked to canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD), which can lead to confusion and disorientation. As a result, there is strong growth in the range of products on the market aimed specifically at helping to make life easier for incontinent pets. One such product is the ‘Wet Dog Mat’ from Jacob’s Den. This helps to keep the dog as clean and dry as possible, by using a combination of absorbent and waterproof layers.

Movement and mobility

Many pets develop arthritis as they age. The most common form is osteoarthritis, which is progressive. Therefore, it is important to help to ease the pain for the animal and promote safe mobility by providing suitable accessories such as pet stairs, ramps and raised or/and orthopedic beds.

A number of vet physiotherapists recommend the WGYTECH dog stairs and the anti-slip tape from Canine Arthritis Management, which can help to minimize trips and stumbles. Such incidents are believed to play a huge part in influencing the rate of progression of arthritis.

For aging cats, ‘cat trees’ can help to enrich their lives when they venture outside less frequently. For caged rodents, the addition of more levels, non-slip surfaces and hammocks can increase their comfort as they move around.

Eyesight and hearing

Most pets will suffer some kind of vision impairment and degradation of hearing as they age. To stimulate all 5 senses, particularly eyesight and hearing, the Sharples Five Senses Ball is made of a color spectrum that is easier to see and makes a sound when shaken. It also has a multi-textured surface for added stimulation.

The X-Tire Ball from Pet Qwerks Toys is a great addition, particularly for blind or partially sighted dogs, as it has ruggedly molded tires with a single jingle ball in the center. For birds with sight issues, vet tape wrap is a good way to mark the cage bars. Other additions can include padded perches or bird platforms – such as the Zerodis Bird Perch Stand – which provide tactile feedback when exploring.

Outdoor excursions

According to health provider Healthline, dogs can help decrease human anxiety and loneliness by 60%. In addition, people who own a dog are 54% more likely to get the recommended amount of exercise, according to the animal well-being association American Humane. Therefore, it is no wonder that so many owners still want their companions to be able to join them on walks. For dogs with very limited mobility, dog strollers such as the Klarfit Husky Vario 2-in-1 can be a versatile solution for such outings.

Enrichment

For senior pets with limited mobility, enrichment at home plays a vital part in their mental and physical stimulation. The Kong is probably the most well-recognized interactive dog toy on the market, closely followed by the snuffle mat in terms of popularity. Both of these products have been developed with pet wellness and development in mind.