Our dogs and cats are not just pets; they're part of our family.
As they age, of course, they need more support from us. Just as accommodations can help offset the physical challenges of aging for people, so can modifications for your home help pets. Depending on if this is your first time with a senior animal, the types of changes needed might be new.
That's why we put together a brief article about what you can do to help your pets. Whether you're new to caring for senior pets, or have done it before, there's something here for everyone.
Here are five effective ways to modify your home to help your aging pets.
Raise Their Food and Water
As your pet grows older, it may become more difficult for them to lower their head to eat and drink.
Purchase or build raised platforms to elevate their food and water bowls. This gives them a much needed boost while they eat and drink.
For cats especially, this is important. Bowls should be placed away from windows that reach the floor or cat flaps, as well as windows that are exposed to the outdoors. Bowls should be placed in locations where your cat can eat and drink without having his back exposed to other animals in the household.
Install or Build a Ramp
At one point or another, most dogs and cats develop arthritis.
Making a few simple changes in your home, such as adding or installing a ramp, can enable older dogs and cats to continue moving around on their own. While permanently installing a ramp to you staircases might not be an option - there are removable ramps available. Shop around and find one that fits your needs and budget.
Minor changes like this can help animals of all sizes have the same freedom they had when they were younger, including the ability to access couches, beds, and cars.
Modify Your Floors
If you are unable to alter the flooring of your home, try installing non-slip rugs and carpet runners. The non-slip floor coverings help prevent dangerous pet accidents.
If you have hard floors that are prone to be slick, consider getting yoga mats for better traction for your pet. Seek out materials that don’t absorb dirt and stains easily so you won’t have any difficulties cleaning them.
Add a Doggy Door
A doggy door is a modification that can help a pet with urinary incontinence. This type of door is usually used for pets with mobility issues who need to go outside to urinate. Doggy doors give your pet the freedom to do their business when the urge arises.
This will keep your carpets clean and your pets happy and healthy!
Enhance Your Staircase
You can make your stairs safer for older pets by installing carpet or rubber treads.
If your pet is having trouble going up the stairs at all, consider putting the pet's bed in a warm area downstairs so that the pet can stay on the first floor of your home.
Conclusion
We hope this article proves to be useful when it comes to helping you make the necessary changes to your home. As you can see, there are quite a few modifications that you can make to make your aging pet’s life more comfortable.
Be sure to keep everything you’ve learned here in mind so that you can make the most informed decisions when it comes to revamping your home in order to accommodate your pet’s needs.
Aside from modifications to your home, you can also help your aging by accommodating their specific needs. Shop at the best pet supply store, Maggie’s Pet Boutique, for soft, relaxing, and durable doggie beds. For more information on our products, visit our website today!
