Internet Myth #8: "My pet died of old age."

Not true. Old age is not a disease (thank goodness because I am getting there). Pets (like people) eventually die due to some illness or catastrophic event. In older age their immune systems may be impaired or one of the organs starts to fail which allows the disease process to begin.

Often pet owners mistakingly believe that the reason their pet is slowing down is just due to old age. Frequently, however, there is a reason for this b...ehaviour change. I would say from experience that there are two major causes of an older pet "slowing down" The first is unrecognized dental disease which is painful and depressing to them. After treating the dental disease, a common comment from the pet owner is "wow... I have a new puppy (or kitten) again". Another reason for an older pet to "age" more quickly is Arthritis. The chronic pain and discomfort inhibits their quality of life and they just don't feel well enough to get up and move around.

If your older pet is slowing down please have them examined by a Veterinarian. Blood and urine testing will likely be needed to test and confirm that all the organs are working properly and the physical exam will help to make an accurate diagnosis. Your Veterinarian can then make recommendations that can help your faithful friend get more joy out of life.