I began working with complementary modalities to help my aging dog. It was challenging at times to adjust to the changes that were occurring in her eating, mobility and sleeping patterns.
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When someone spends time with an aging pet on a daily basis it is hard to spot the first signs of aging. The process can be very gradual—and with larger dog breeds like the Great Dane aging can begin as early as five years old. If your dog or cat is at the onset of his golden years, keep an eye on any physical and behavioral changes, even minor ones. I suggest that people keep a diary/journal of their dog or cat’s behavior, eating habits and activity level.
Aging has a wonderful beauty and we should have respect for that. -Eartha Kitt
Senior Status
Cats typically reach their twilight years between 10 and 12 years of age, but for dogs it varies by size:
- Small (up to 20 pounds): 10 to 12 years old
- Medium (21-50 pounds): 8 to 10 years old
- Large (51-90 pounds): 7 to 8 years old
- Giant (91 pounds and over): 5 to 6 years old
Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CD), the dog equivalent of Alzheimer’s disease, and Dementia in cats and affects nearly half of elderly dogs and cats. It can lead to disorientation, reduced or increased activity levels, social issues and memory lapses and insomnia.
Applying and diffusing essential oils like Frankincense or Rosemary can help your dog/cat to focus. Manage changes in sleep patterns by diffusing or applying a calming blend or lavender. To keep your pet mentally stimulated by feeding him through a puzzle toy so he’s encouraged to think and work for his food.
As a dog or cat ages they may develop painful joints in the legs, back and neck and can cause a dog or cat to struggle while getting up in the morning, and your dog or cat may walk or lie down awkwardly. Cats may have trouble jumping. Apply a combination of Lavender and Frankincense to support your dog or cat. Also, used separately or together, chondroitin and glucosamine may be able to improve joint health for dogs and cats.
As your dog or cat ages muscle mass tends to decrease and metabolism slows down with age, which contributes to their packing on the pounds. At around 7 years old (larger animals should make the switch sooner, so ask your vet first), transition your dog or cat to one of the “senior” food product lines, which are high in protein but low in calories. Aging Dogs and Cats should take a probiotic and applying a digestive blend may ease digestive problems.
Frequent urination and accidents in the house may indicate a more serious problem and I suggest you make a visit to your veterinarian. If your vet rules out medical troubles, up the number of litter boxes for cats and buy pee pads for dogs (put at least one in every room). Applying essential oils that maintain bladder and kidney function can be beneficial.
A pet that no longer responds to previously known cues and commands could be dealing with blindness or deafness. For dogs and cats with vision challenges I suggest keeping the environment the same. Dogs and cats actually adapt amazingly well when they lose their eyesight — as long as you don’t start rearranging the furniture. If your four legged companion knows his way around your house and yard and has a walking route that suits him, try to keep these things constant to prevent injuries and put him at ease.
For a dog or cat living in a soundless world, sudden contact can be unnerving. It can also be dangerous for the person who delivers the shock. Learn how to let your dog or cat know you’re coming, in many cases a few simple hand claps are enough to get their attention. If your companion is completely deaf, step loudly as you approach — your footfalls will cause a vibration that can be felt even if it’s not heard.
Applying essential oils to yourself or diffusing essential oils in your home can make your dog or cat feel more at ease. If your dog or cat can not see or hear you they will be able to smell you. In addition aging dogs and cats tend to feel more anxious essential oils can be calming to your . They will also find it comforting and calming when you are not at home.
We are all aging: be gentle, patient and kind with your aging dog or cat.