Estcourt Vets Devizes
Advice From Estcourt Vets on Supporting Senior Pets
Getting older is part of life, and that goes for our pets too. But just because your pet is showing signs of ageing doesn’t mean they’re simply “getting old” and there’s nothing you can do. Many of the changes we see in older pets are actually due to treatable or manageable conditions that our vets in Devizes can help with – and not age itself.
At Estcourt Vets, we believe every pet deserves to enjoy their golden years in comfort and good health. Knowing what to look for, and when to ask for help, can make all the difference. If you’re worried your pet might be slowing down, just book an appointment for our vets to check them over.
Spotting the signs of age-related illness
Pets are brilliant at masking discomfort, so subtle changes often go unnoticed. You might assume your pet is just “slowing down” with age, but in many cases, they’re actually dealing with pain or an underlying issue. Here are some of the most common signs to keep an eye on:
- Stiffness or difficulty getting up
- Less interest in walks or play
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Increased thirst or urination
- Confusion or disrupted sleep
- Lumps, bumps or changes in grooming habits
Many of these symptoms are linked to treatable problems such as arthritis, dental disease, kidney issues or cognitive decline. Our vets in Devizes are happy to check over your pet and suggest possible treatments.
Conditions we can help manage
As pets age, they become more prone to certain health conditions, but that doesn’t mean they’re inevitable, or untreatable. With the right care from our vets, we can often slow down progression, relieve discomfort, and improve quality of life. Some of the most common senior pet conditions we support at Estcourt Vets include:
- Arthritis – manageable with medication, supplements, and simple home changes
- Dental disease – often overlooked, but painful and treatable
- Heart disease – early diagnosis can improve outcomes significantly
- Kidney and liver conditions – can often be managed with diet and medication
- Cognitive dysfunction – similar to dementia, but support is available from Estcourt Vets’ team
Regular check-ups are the best way to catch these problems early – before they impact your pet’s wellbeing.
Helping your older pet thrive
There’s so much that can be done to help pets feel better in later life, and small changes can go a long way:
- Use joint supplements and supportive bedding
- Switch to senior-specific diets
- Encourage gentle, regular exercise
- Make ramps or shallow steps for easier access
- Book regular health checks every 6 months
Even if your pet seems fine, don’t wait until something is wrong. Ageing pets benefit from more frequent health assessments so we can catch issues early. Call us on 01380 723687 to speak with our vets in Devizes about senior health care.
A happier, healthier old age
Getting older doesn’t have to mean slowing down completely. With the right care, many pets can enjoy a full, active life well into their senior years.
If you’ve noticed any changes in your pet, or just want peace of mind, Estcourt Vets’ team are here to help. Book an appointment today to talk through your pet’s care.
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