Special considerations for the older patient

摘要

The age category that constitutes a geriatric dog or cat is not easily defined in veterinary medicine. In human medicine, people are considered elderly or geriatric from the age of 65, however we do not have specific requirements in dogs and cats.1 There are several studies in the literature that have suggested specific ages at which dogs and cats should be considered 'old' depending on breed and size.2 That being said, an advanced age does not predict mortality as ageing composites different biological processes characterised by ongoing modification of tissues and cells with a gradual loss of adaptive capacity.3 Signs of ageing are inevitable in older dogs and cats and veterinarians mostly rely on observations by the pet owners to characterise disease course and duration, Common presenting complaints include external changes visible to the owner such as slowing down/mobility issues, loss of vision, loss of hearing, haircoat (alopecia, colour changes), behavioural changes, changes in eating or drinking habits and weight loss/gain,4 This reliance on owners to assess disease in their pets can lead to delayed recognition and intervention as they fail to report cardinal signs of disease or recognise the importance of signs in their dog or cat. Therefore, routine screening with physical exam findings, bloodwork, and imaging (thoracic radiographs or ultrasound), are paramount in the continued management and improved quality of life of geriatric patients.Complete discussion of disorders that affect geriatric dogs and cats is beyond the scope of this article, so the author will focus on the work up and preventative care for a few conditions that occur frequently in older animals.