Our dogs or cats are not just pets but beloved members of the family. As they grow older, they require more support from us. Similar to how people will benefit from simple home modifications that help when they age, so will our furry friends.

Here at The Paw Resort & Wellness Centre, we believe that as pets age, the home needs to be modified, too, to accommodate the changes they’re going through, too. We believe they deserve the best care possible because they are family, too. So we share some tips on how you can modify your home for an elderly dog or cat:

Raise Their Food and Water Bowls

If you have an old pet at home, you may need to raise their food and water bowls. This will make the bowls easier for them to reach, which can be helpful if they have trouble standing or moving around. You can use bricks, blocks, or even books to raise the bowls. Just make sure that the bowls are stable and won’t tip over.

Upgrade Their Litter Box

As our pets age, they can start to experience some joint pain and mobility issues. This can make it difficult for them to get in and out of their litter box, which can lead to accidents. You can make your pet’s litter box more accessible by doing these things:

• Use a lower-sided litter box. This will make it easier for your pet to get in and out.

• Place the litter box in a location that is easily accessible. You may have to try placing the litter box in different spots to find the best location for your pet.

• Use litter sand that is easier for your pet to dig in. Some brands make a special senior-friendly litter.

Build Them a Ramp

As pets grow older, they often have a more challenging time getting around. This is especially true for pets who may have arthritis or other mobility issues. One way to help your elderly pet is to build them a ramp.

A ramp can help your pet get in and out of the house more easily and can also make it easier for them to get on and off furniture or get to the upper levels of your home. You can buy pre-made ramps or build your own. If you build the ramp yourself, be sure to make it sturdy and stable, with a non-slip surface.

Have Comfortable Beds for Your Pets in Different Areas of the House

If you have elderly pets, you know that their days are often long and filled with plenty of activity. But, sometimes, they just want to relax in their own space.

You can provide them with a comfortable place to relax in your home by making sure there are beds in different areas of the house. This way, your pet can choose where to spend their time.

Install Pet Flaps or Doggy Doors

One way to make life easier for your elderly dog or cat is to install a pet flap or doggy door. This will give them the freedom to come and go as they please, without you having to let them in and out constantly.

There are some things a pet owner needs to remember when choosing a pet flap or doggy door. If you have an older dog, make sure the flap is big enough for them to get through quickly. You’ll also want to make sure the flap is sturdy enough to withstand any bumps or jostling, as older dogs may not be as graceful as they once were.

Invest in Orthopedic Beds for Your Pets

As dogs and cats age, they can start to experience joint pain and other orthopedic issues. This is why it’s important to invest in orthopedic beds for them. These beds provide extra support and cushioning, which can help to ease your pet’s pain and keep them comfortable.

There are a plethora of orthopedic pet beds available, so you can choose one that best suits your pet’s needs. You can also find beds with different levels of firmness, meaning you can find the perfect level of support for your pet.

Always Check the Temperature in Your House

Older animals find it even more challenging to regulate their body temperature. This means they’re often more sensitive to temperatures that are far too different from their body temperature. It’s highly advised that you set your thermostat between 78 and 80 degrees to keep your older pets comfortable. You should also pay special attention to your animal’s specific behavior. If you notice them hanging out by a fan or the heater, this is a sign that they may need an adjustment outside of the 78- to 80-degree range.

Have a Safe Play Space for Your Pets

Older pets may not be able to move around as easily as they used to. This can make it difficult for them to get the exercise they need to stay healthy. Creating safe play space for your aging pet can help them stay active and avoid injury.

Here’s how you can create a safe play space for your aging dog or cat:

• Choose a space that is free of obstacles that your pet could trip over.

• If your pet is prone to joint pain, choose a space with soft surfaces like grass or sand.

• Make sure the space is fenced in or otherwise enclosed so your pet can’t wander off.

• If your pet is very old or frail, consider setting up the space indoors where they can’t fall or hurt themselves.

Taking these steps to create a safe play space for your aging pet will help them stay active and healthy as they age.

Conclusion

A few modifications, like the ones mentioned in this article, can make it easier for your aging pet. Making sure they have a comfortable place to sleep, plenty of water and food, and lots of love will help your pet live a happy and comfortable life as they age. With a little bit of extra care and attention, you can help your furry friends age gracefully and enjoy their golden years.

While you’re making modifications to your home, you can take your furry friends to a trusted paw boarding centre where they can be pampered during their stay.

The Paw Resort & Wellness Centre is a paw resort in Brandon, Manitoba, that offers different services that your beloved pets will surely enjoy. From boarding to play care, grooming, and more, we deliver a high standard that you expect and your pet deserves. Book your pet’s stay at The Paw Resort & Wellness Centre now!