America is known for being a pet-loving country since its inception. Pets and seniors are a great match. Pet ownership can be a great way to combat senior mobility limitations, low energy, and health issues that can make them feel isolated. Social isolation is a major problem for seniors living alone. It can cause loneliness, and depression, and even lead to poor physical health. Seniors who have companion pets can help with these issues.
Find out why seniors should have pets, what you need to know about pet ownership, and which pets are best for seniors.
Why Seniors Should Have Pets
Seniors may benefit from pets. The Michigan study found that pet owners who are older reported having:
- They were able to enjoy their lives (88%)
- They felt loved (86%)
- Stress reduction (79%)
- Provided a sense of purpose (73%)
- Connected them to others (65%).
- Encouraged physical activity (64%).
Pets are also able to help with routine creation and maintenance, safety, and protection.
What should seniors consider when thinking about a pet?
There are many factors that go into choosing the right pet for seniors. You need to consider your lifestyle, your home, and your caregiving abilities. Seniors who are in a wheelchair or confined to their beds might have problems with pets that require a lot of care.
These are just a few more things to keep in mind:
- Do you have the physical ability to care for a pet? Are you able to care for a pet long-term?
- Are you able to give enough time to your pet’s well-being?
- Are you able to provide care for your pet?
- Is it possible to afford a pet, including food, medical, and training,?
- How big can your house be and allow for your physical abilities?
- Are you able to take care of one or more pets?
Consider adopting a local shelter if you have made the decision to buy a pet. Millions of pets go into shelters each year and 4.1 million animals are adopted. As much as senior citizens, these animals require companionship.
What are the best senior pets?
Dog
The most loved pet in America is the dog. Many people choose dogs because they are loyal, affectionate, protective, helpful, and playful. Dogs need to be exercised and cared for. Dogs with allergies are more likely to get sick.
These are some of the top senior breeds:
- Bichon Frise – These smaller dogs require more grooming, but they don’t shed as much and are very energetic.
- Boston Terrier – These dogs are affectionate, friendly, well-mannered, and easy to care for.
- Cavalier King Charles spaniel is a small, affectionate dog that loves to be with its owners.
- English bulldog – These dogs are quiet and shy, and require regular grooming.
- French bulldogs – They are quiet and do not require a lot of exercise. However, they need to be groomed.
- Miniature Schnauzer – These dogs can be energetic, playful, obedient, and eager to please. However, they can also be vocal.
- Pomeranian – These energetic and affectionate dogs need to be groomed regularly, but they don’t require too much exercise.
- Poodles – These intelligent dogs can adapt to any environment and shed very little. They do require a lot of exercise and grooming.
- Pugs – These are small, playful dogs that require less exercise but can be stubborn.
- Yorkshire Terrier – These small dogs are easy to groom and don’t shed.
Cat
According to the APPA survey at 43%, cats are second among pet owners. Although cats are independent and require less care, they still have their needs. Cats require space and a place to call their own.
These are some of the top senior cat breeds:
- American bobtail – These cats are affectionate, and they don’t like being left alone. They bond with their owners.
- American Shorthair – These cats love cuddling and are great companions for seniors.
- Birman – An affectionate, gentle, and intelligent cat who loves companionship and has a playful side.
- British shorthair – These cats are playful and good-natured as kittens, but they become calmer as they get older.
- Chartreux – They are calm and playful making them a great match for seniors.
- Himalayan cats – These cats prefer to live in calm environments and are a great match for elderly pet owners.
- Persians – They are gentle, calm cats who love quiet homes.
- Ragdoll – This cat is laid-back, loving, and calm. She has a tendency to follow your every move.
- Russian blue cats – These cats are affectionate, friendly, and loyal to their family.
- Siberian cats – Siberian cats are affectionate, calm, and playful. They make great therapy pets.
Fish
According to the APPA survey, fish are surprisingly third in popularity among pet owners. 14.7% of respondents said they own either saltwater or freshwater fish. Fish are easy to care for and relax with, making them an excellent choice for senior citizens.
Fish require very little maintenance, and only a bowl or tank to keep them happy. Fish require only food and regular tank cleanings. Equipment for the living area will be their biggest expense.
These are some of the most low-maintenance fish you can get:
- Betta – Also known as Siamese or Japanese fighting fish, these fish are small and beautiful with flowing tails. They require less frequent water changes because they are clean.
- Dwarf puffer fish, a small freshwater fish that is relatively affordable Like bettas, they keep an eye out for their owners.
- The most popular pet fish is the Goldfish. However, the fancy-tailed varieties are considered to be the most beautiful. They are messier and may require more water maintenance.
- Guppy – These fish are social and love to be surrounded by others. You can find them in many colors.
- Molly – Molly is an easy-to-care-for fish that is hardy and durable. If you adopt a molly, it is likely to be female and pregnant. It is possible to have a lot of fish before you realize it.
- Tetra – This group includes many different subspecies. Tetras should not be kept alone.
Bird
Birds require less care than dogs and are often more comfortable in a cage. Seniors with mobility problems will find them an appealing option. Seniors who otherwise might feel lonely can find comfort in the singing, tweeting, and talking of birds.
Birds can live a long time, so senior citizens considering adopting birds should also plan for their future.
- Canary – These birds can be considered calm and have softer songs than the males. They also produce less vocalization. They can be kept in their cages for a lifetime as they are social, active, and friendly.
- Cockatiel is a medium-sized singing bird that whistles and sings. You should not be surprised if they mimic sounds around your house.
- Lovebirds – These quiet pets can be an excellent choice for apartment neighbors. They are intelligent, friendly, and can have a lot of opinions.
- Parakeets – These birds can speak with their tiny voices and learn basic tricks and words. They are social, active and intelligent. They are affectionate and need more attention outside of the cage.
- Zebra finch – These quiet birds can be social and active but they should not be left in their cages. They are best kept in small groups of 2 to 4.
Other
Although rabbits, hamsters and gerbils have a shorter lifespan than cats and dogs, ferrets and mice can live up to twice as long as their counterparts. All of them require regular care, food, companionship, and protection. These animals might not be as useful companions during the day because they are nocturnal.
You should also consider whether other pets are a danger to your small animals.
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