ANSWERS

1. Define the term "geriatric".
   Geriatric describes the elderly and matters relating to them, particularly illnesses.
2. At what age are cats and dogs generally considered geriatric? (Remember that the longevity of dogs is often dependent upon their size).
   • Cats - 9 years plus.
   • Giant breed dogs (e.g. St. Bernard) - 5 years plus.
   • Large breed dogs (e.g. German Shepherd) - 7 years plus.
   • Medium and small breed dogs (e.g. West Highland Terrier) - 8-9 years plus.
3. List 8 physical changes that may affect a geriatric animal.
   • Thickened skin.
   • Greying of the coat (especially around the muzzle).
   • Pigments appearing on the skin.
   • Decreased skeletal muscle mass.
   • Decreased strength and stamina.
   • Decreased bone mass due to resorption.
   • Loss of functional reserve.
   • Prone to accumulated injury.
4. List 5 mental changes that may affect a geriatric animal.
   • Forgetfulness.
   • Decreased response to stimuli.
   • Irritability.
   • Decreased sensitivity to pain.
   • Less adaptable to changes in routine.
5. What properties should a diet for a geriatric animal possess and why?
   • Low in sodium - to reduce hypertension.
   • Low in protein - many geriatric animals have renal dysfunction.
   • Low in calories - to prevent obesity (the metabolic rate of a geriatric animal falls by 20%).
   • Low in phosphorous - to prevent the development of hyperphosphataemia and the resulting high circulating levels of parathyroid hormone that may lead to renal rickets (rubber jaw).
6. Why are geriatric animals prone to obesity?
   Geriatric animals tend to sleep more, and exercise less. They therefore do not expend as many calories as their younger counterparts. In addition, the metabolic rate of a geriatric falls by 20%.
7. When is an animal classified as obese?
   An obese animal is one whose body weight exceeds its optimal (ideal) weight by 15% or more.
8. List 8 diseases that commonly affect the older animal.
   • Obesity.
   • Neoplasia, (especially of the skin and gonads).
   • Renal disease.
   • Hepatic disease.
   • Heart disease.
   • Dental disease.
   • Osteoarthritis.
   • Senility.

Note: A practical task demonstration: Advising a client regarding weight reduction accompanies this module.