Older pets are more likely to develop heart murmurs and lung problems. They may cough, wheeze, pant more and seem short of breath with activity.
Recommendation:
- Twice yearly examinations by your veterinarian are recommended. If your pet is developing heart or lung disease, finding it and treating it early will improve the quality of life. There are new heart drugs available to help our aging pets live longer and better lives.
- Watch the salt content in everything you feed your pet (diet, treats).
- Watch their diet - keeping your pet slim and trim helps when lung disease is present.
- Don't leave older pets in the car in the summer (even if the air conditioner is on) as they do not pant as effectively as a young animal.