17. The 10-Minute Monthly Checkup That Could Add Years to Your Pet's Life

What should I check on my aging pet every month? In this episode, Dr. Steffen shares a once-a-month, 10-minute senior pet checkup she calls her Aging Gracefully checklist, something you can do at home to catch changes earlier in dogs and cats.She covers:Why small changes can be easy to miss unless you track them over timeWeight and body conditionEating, drinking, and gastrointestinal signs, and why trends matter more than single isolated eventsLitter box and bathroom changes, and how shifts in frequency, location, or amount of urination and defecation can be early signs of diseaseMobility changes, including stiffness, difficulty with stairs, and trouble risingGum and dental checksEye cloudiness, ear discharge, skin and coat changes, lumps and bumps, nail changes, and lymph node checksResting breathing rate and cognitive changes such as wandering, staring, getting lost, pacing, and altered recognitionListen in for the simple things that can help you catch problems early, and help give your pet a longer, happier, healthier life.LINKSSign up for Dr. Steffen’s email list and grab the freebies here: http://www.seniorpetconnection.com/freebiesFollow Senior Pet Talk and find Dr. Amanda on Instagram at @‌dr.amanda.vet.Website: http://seniorpetconnection.comBook your personalized virtual consultation: https://bit.ly/SPTConsultTIME STAMPS00:00 Why monthly checkups matter more than you think03:18 The key health indicators worth tracking04:27 Rusty's diabetes diagnosis08:02 Watching for weight and muscle loss11:25 When appetite and eating habits start to change14:32 Drinking, urination, and GI signs to watch17:53 Litter box and movement changes in cats22:38 Signs your pet might be uncomfortable or have mobility issues27:09 Dental health and how to check their mouth31:33 Checking breathing rate and respiratory health34:03 Spotting cognitive changes and signs of dementia35:18 Where to grab the free checklist and get supportDisclaimer: Senior Pet Talk is not a substitute for professional veterinary care or the clinical judgment of a licensed veterinarian. This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or make medical decisions for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific health needs.