7 Senior Pet Care Secrets Every Qatar Pet Owner Must Know

Being the pet parents in Qatar, seeing our pets grow older fills us with joy and concern. Older dogs walking by the Corniche or cats basking in the shade of the AC require special love and attention. These seven tips are a must-know to keep your elderly pet happy and healthy in Qatar.

1. Spot the Warning Signs Early:
Ageing happens step by step, so keep an eye on more daytime sleeping, shorter distances walked, playfulness, and appetite variation. Early detection prevents bigger health issues.

2. Beat Qatar's Harsh Heat:
Older pets are more sensitive to heat. Always walk them early in the morning before 7 AM or late in the evening after 7 PM, carry fresh water, use cooling mats indoors, and check pavement temperature with your hand before venturing out.

3. Choose Senior-Friendly Food:
Simple pet chow may no longer be sufficient. Older pets need easily digestible food with joint nutrients and softer fare for ease in the teeth. Mixing wet food and dry food, or even watering down kibble with warm water, can make mealtime a breeze.

4. Alter Their Exercise Routine:
Aged pets don't need tough exercise. Use light exercises like short 10-minute walks, indoor play with soft toys, simple mind games, and watching birds through a window. Avoid long strolls on the beach, leaping onto furniture, and hyperactive play with younger pets.

5. Home Safe and Comfortable:
Upgrade their living space to suit their slower pace. Provide orthopedic beds for greater joint support, use non-slip mats in front of tiles to prevent slipping, employ raised dishes to minimize neck strain, and use ramps instead of stairs wherever possible.

6. Take the Vet Out More Often:
Older pets camouflage pain well, so double their veterinarian visits. Schedule visits every six months, do blood tests every six months, and keep tabs on their weight monthly. Ask your vet if there is a sudden loss of appetite, breathing issues, limping, or indoor panting.

7. Give them Extra Love and Patience:
Older animals are clingier — it's not neediness, it's aging. Give them extra cuddles, have a calming daily routine, brush them gently, and support them with movement if they need it. They've practiced unconditional love on you for years — now they need yours more than ever.

Bottom Line:
Your golden years can be tranquil and sweet for your pet. Make one change today, and your aging pal will notice it immediately.