Mobility in Aging Pets: Keeping Your Senior Moving
Reduced mobility is common in senior pets but shouldn't be accepted as 'just old age.' Learn how to keep your aging pet active.
agingmany companion slowing down—— shorter walks jumprest stiffnessWhile some slowing naturalsignificant mobility loss usually especially senior pet deserves golden years
- Reduced mobility usually not just aging
- Weight management most impactful
- Exercise modified not stopped
- Home modifications makes easier
- Physical therapy rehabilitation help significantly
- treatments Librela game-changers
Mobility Declines
Most common osteoarthritis—— degenerative Other causes loss sarcopeniaspinal disease degenerative myelopathyIVDD conditions conditions also reduced levelsVet exam specific
Home Modifications
Add ramps for furniture car accessPlace non-slip mats on tile hardwood floorsProvide orthopedic beds with memory foamRaise food water bowlsUse harness with handle for helping dogs on stairsFor catsprovide litter boxes with low entry pointsaccessible resting spots at various heights and keep everything on one floor possible
Appropriate Exercise
Don't stop exercising senior pet—— movement keeps joints lubricated muscles strongModify routineshortermore frequent walks instead of one long walkSwimming excellent low-impact exerciseGentle range-of-motion exercises flexibilityAvoid high-impact activities fetchjumpingLet pet set pace
Physical Therapy Rehabilitation
Veterinary rehabilitation hydrotherapy underwater treadmilltherapeutic laseracupuncturemassage targeted exercisesThese modalities range of motion build muscle strengthMany pets regular rehab sessions dramatic Ask about rehabilitation options
- pet noticeably slower less active
- Difficulty with stairsjumping getting up
- go for walks
- Muscle wasting weight gain
- Rest stiffness
- mobility support options
RVC comprehensive senior mobility care Librela/Solensia weight programs rehabilitation pet active +853 6677 6611
+853 6677 6611