6 Ways Preventive Care Can Help Extend Pets' Lifespans
Pet owners universally share the desire for their furry companions to live long, healthy lives. Fortunately, recent studies reveal that our beloved pets are living longer than they used to. This increased longevity can be tied to advancements in veterinary medicine, improved nutrition, and a heightened awareness of animal health.
But what role does veterinary preventive care play in this positive trend? Understanding the connection between longer pet lifespans and wellness testing is crucial for ensuring our patients enjoy the best quality of life possible.
Pets Are Living Longer
Studies show a significant increase in the life expectancy of both cats and dogs receiving veterinary care. According to analysis of IDEXX data from 2+ million canine and feline patients from 2010 through 2023, the average lifespan of dogs has increased 12% from 11.6 years in 2010 to 13.0 years in 2023, and the average lifespan of cats has increased 15% from 12.3 years in 2010 to 14.2 years in 2023.1
These impressive gains are a testament to the advancements in pet care, including better nutrition, vaccinations, and living conditions.
6 Ways Preventive Care Can Increase a Pet's Longevity
Wellness testing is one of the components that can play a pivotal role in increasing the lifespan of our patients. It encompasses a range of practices aimed at maintaining health and detecting potential issues early.
1. Early Detection Through Diagnostic Screening
Diagnostic screening is essential. Early detection of diseases and abnormalities gives you the veterinarian the opportunity to share this information with pet owners, make actionable choices for further evaluation and monitoring or treatment. For example, an IDEXX study showed that the likelihood of clinically relevant abnormalities being found on wellness testing lab work (including CBC, biochemistry, and urinalysis) was as high as 1:3 for mature adult cats and 1:5 for mature adult dogs.
Regular diagnostic screenings can help identify health issues before they become severe, allowing for timely and effective intervention. For instance, detecting kidney disease in its early stages can lead to better management and a longer, healthier life.
2. Establishing a Health Baseline
Establishing a baseline health status for patients early in their lives is crucial. By recording a pet's normal health metrics when they are young, it's easier to identify deviations from their historical normal ranges as they age. This enables the detection of trends that might indicate underlying health issues, allowing for proactive management.
Baseline health data is particularly valuable for monitoring chronic conditions and making informed decisions about treatment options.
3. Continued Regular Health Screenings
Regular health screenings are vital for maintaining our patient's health over time. For young dogs, annual diagnostic screenings are recommended, and as pets age, the frequency of these screenings should increase. Mature and senior dogs benefit from biannual screenings, which can help catch age-related issues early. This proactive approach ensures that any emerging health problems can be addressed promptly through actionable choices that will help maintain quality of life and longevity.
4. Vaccinations and Parasite Control
Preventive care also includes routine vaccinations and parasite control. Vaccines and parasite control should be customized to the patient based on lifestyle, exposure risk, and current health status. In North America, guidelines for vaccines are available from AAHA for canine patients and AAFP for feline. The Companion Animal Parasite Council has maps and resources available for veterinarians to assess geographical risk for vector borne diseases and parasite exposure. These preventive measures reduce the risk of disease, keeping pets healthier even if they've been exposed to infection.
5. Dental Care
Dental health is another critical aspect of preventive care. Poor dental hygiene can lead to periodontal disease, which is linked to various systemic health issues, including heart and kidney disease. Regular dental check-ups and prophylactic cleaning and care can help maintain oral health and prevent complications, contributing to a longer, healthier life for pets.
6. Nutrition and Weight Management
Proper nutrition and weight management are fundamental to every pet's well-being. Obesity is a significant health concern that can shorten a pet's lifespan and lead to various health problems, such as diabetes, joint issues, and heart disease. Providing guidance on appropriate diets and exercise routines can help ensure pets maintain a healthy weight.
Preventive Care Is Key
The increased lifespan of our pets is a testament to the advancements in veterinary care and the importance of preventive measures. Regular diagnostic screenings, vaccinations, parasite control, dental care, and proper nutrition all play critical roles in ensuring they live longer, healthier lives.
By recommending and encouraging preventive care for all patients, owners can help their beloved companions enjoy more years of good health and happiness.
References:
1. Data on file at IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. Westbrook, Maine USA.