35 expert articles covering health, nutrition, daily care, and more for senior Malteses.

Senior Maltese Care: A Complete Guide

The Maltese is a charming toy breed known for its snowy white coat, big dark eyes, and gentle, affectionate nature. Bred as companion dogs for Mediterranean nobility, Maltese have remained popular for centuries and are prized today for being lively yet lap-friendly pets. When a Maltese reaches its golden years, attentive, breed-specific care helps preserve mobility, comfort, and [quality of life](https://seniorpet.org/knowledge/[siamese](https://seniorpet.org/knowledge/breed/siamese "Senior Siamese Cat Health Guide")-cat-quality-of-life "Quality of Life Assessment").

When a Maltese is considered "senior"

Small and toy breeds like the Maltese typically enter their senior years earlier than larger breeds. For the Maltese, plan on senior care beginning around 8–9 years of age. With good care they often live 12–15 years; tailoring diet, exercise, grooming, and veterinary screening as they age helps them make the most of those later years.

Key health concerns for senior Maltese (by body system)

Cardiac

- [Mitral Valve Disease](https://seniorpet.org/knowledge/cavalier-king-charles-spaniel-mitral-valve-disease "Mitral Valve Disease Guide") (MVD): common in small breeds; progressive murmur, cough, exercise intolerance, and congestive heart failure in advanced stages. Regular auscultation and echocardiograms can detect early disease. - Monitor resting respiratory rate and effort; sudden increases warrant immediate evaluation.

Musculoskeletal / Movement

- Luxating patella: kneecap slipping is frequent in toy breeds and can cause intermittent limping, skipping, or [arthritis](https://seniorpet.org/knowledge/golden-retriever-arthritis-pain-management "Arthritis Management in Senior Pets"). Weight control and joint supplements help; surgery may be needed for severe cases. - Osteoarthritis: small joints can be painful; look for stiffness after rest and decreased activity.

Dental & Oral

- [Dental disease](https://seniorpet.org/knowledge/siamese-cat-dental-disease "Dental Disease in Senior Pets"): nearly universal in small breeds—periodontal disease, tartar, tooth loss, pain, and systemic effects. Regular [home care](https://seniorpet.org/knowledge/pillar/home-care-guide "Senior Pet Home Care Guide") and professional cleanings are essential.

Eyes & Ears

- Cataracts and lens changes: can lead to vision impairment or blindness. - Tear staining and epiphora: common with the white coat; can signal dental issues, blocked tear ducts, or allergies.

Respiratory & Trachea

- Collapsed trachea: produces honking cough, exercise intolerance, respiratory distress in severe cases. Harness use (not collars) and weight control reduce strain.

Hepatic & Metabolic

- Portosystemic liver shunt (congenital): less common but present in some Maltese; may be diagnosed earlier, but seniors can have liver disease or enzyme changes. Signs include neurologic changes, poor weight gain, and GI signs. - Sensitive stomach: prone to vomiting, diarrhea, and food sensitivities. Pancreatitis risk should be considered with fatty meals.

Neurologic / Immune

- White shaker syndrome: small white breeds can develop generalized tremors, often responsive to corticosteroids or other immunomodulatory therapy. - Cognitive decline: watch for disorientation, sleep-wake cycle changes, or house-training lapses.

Nutrition needs

Feed a senior formula designed for small breeds or a veterinary prescription diet when specific conditions exist (cardiac, renal, hepatic, dental).
Calorie control: small dogs expend less energy as they age—avoid overfeeding. Measure portions and track body condition score (aim for ribs palpable with slight fat cover).
Digestive sensitivity: choose highly digestible proteins, moderate fat, and limited ingredients if food sensitivities are suspected. Feed smaller, more frequent meals.
Dental-friendly options: dry kibble formulated for dental care or wet/dry rotation can help; brush teeth daily if possible.
Beneficial supplements: omega-3 fatty acids (anti-inflammatory), joint supplements (glucosamine/chondroitin), and antioxidant blends for cognitive support. Discuss doses with your vet—some supplements affect other conditions (e.g., liver disease).
Avoid human foods high in fat or toxic to dogs; limit treats to <10% of calories.

Exercise & activity guidelines

Daily low-impact activity: short walks (2–3 per day), supervised play, and indoor enrichment. Total active time can be 20–40 minutes depending on fitness.
Protect joints and trachea: use a harness instead of a collar, avoid rough play or repeated jumping, and provide ramps or steps to favorite furniture.
Weight management: keeping lean reduces strain on joints and the heart.
[Mental stimulation](https://seniorpet.org/knowledge/senior-pet-mental-stimulation "Mental Stimulation for Senior Pets"): scent games, puzzle feeders, and short training sessions preserve cognitive function and reduce boredom.

Grooming & daily care

Coat care: daily brushing prevents mats in the long white coat; many owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” for easier maintenance. Professional grooming every 4–8 weeks depending on coat length.
Tear stain management: clean periorbital fur daily with a vet-recommended wipe; investigate chronic staining for tear duct obstruction, dental disease, or allergies.
Bathing: bathe as needed with gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo; avoid over-bathing to prevent skin dryness.
Dental care: daily tooth brushing with canine toothpaste, regular professional cleanings with dental radiographs as recommended.
Nail trims and paw care: keep nails short to prevent posture changes; check paw pads for injury or foreign bodies.
Ear and eye checks: clean ears only as directed; monitor for redness, discharge, cloudiness, or sudden vision changes.

Preventive health screening recommendations

Veterinary exam frequency: biannual exams for seniors (every 6 months) are ideal.
Routine tests:

- Physical exam, weight, body condition, and blood pressure. - CBC, serum chemistry panel, thyroid testing (when indicated), and urinalysis annually or more often if concerns. - Cardiac: auscultation every visit; baseline echocardiogram if a murmur is detected or by 8–9 years if you want early screening. - Dental exam with radiographs under anesthesia as needed. - Ophthalmic exam for cataracts, glaucoma, tear-duct issues. - Abdominal ultrasound or bile acids if liver disease suspected. - Chest radiographs if coughing, suspected tracheal collapse, or [heart disease](https://seniorpet.org/knowledge/cavalier-king-charles-spaniel-mitral-valve-disease "Heart Disease in Senior Pets") progression. - Neurologic evaluation if tremors, seizures, or behavioral changes occur.

Pre-anesthetic screening: older Maltese frequently need tailored anesthesia plans—bloodwork, ECG, and individualized protocols minimize risk.

Living with a senior Maltese

Create a calm, consistent environment with predictable routines. Add non-slip rugs, ramps or pet stairs, and warm bedding for arthritic joints. Monitor behavior and appetite daily; early detection of subtle changes (reduced play, altered sleep, increased thirst) enables earlier intervention. Keep social interaction—Maltese thrive on companionship but may tire faster; short cuddles and low-impact bonding activities are ideal.

Know when to seek help: persistent coughing, new limping, sudden vision loss, fainting, marked weight change, or ongoing vomiting/diarrhea require prompt veterinary attention. Work with your veterinarian to establish an individualized care plan that addresses cardiac health, dental maintenance, nutrition, and comfort—aiming to keep your Maltese active, comfortable, and beloved well into their senior years.

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Complete Maltese Senior Health Guide

Chronic Disease

Mitral Valve Disease in Maltese: Signs, Diagnosis & Care — Mitral valve disease (MMVD) is common in senior Maltese and typically presents with a heart murmur, cough, exercise intolerance, rapid breathing, or fainting. Diagnosis requires cardiac auscultation and echocardiography for ACVIM staging (± thoracic radiographs, NT‑proBNP). Management includes pimobendan, diuretics (furosemide), ACE inhibitors as indicated, dental care, weight control, and regular cardiology follow‑ups to preserve quality of life.
Cataracts in Maltese: Vision Loss, Treatment & Care Options — Cataracts are a leading cause of vision loss in senior Maltese. Definitive treatment is phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation; success depends on thorough pre‑operative assessment for retinal function, glaucoma, lens instability and systemic disease (e.g., diabetes), plus bloodwork and ocular ultrasound. Post‑op topical antibiotics, anti‑inflammatories, activity restriction and scheduled rechecks are essential to optimize vision and reduce complications.
Portosystemic Liver Shunt in Maltese: Symptoms & Management — Senior Maltese with a portosystemic shunt often show neurologic signs (disorientation, seizures), GI signs, polyuria/polydipsia and ammonium urate uroliths; small breeds usually have extrahepatic congenital shunts. Diagnosis uses bloodwork (paired bile acids, ammonia) and imaging (abdominal ultrasound or CT angiography). Medical control (low‑protein diet, lactulose, antibiotics) stabilizes patients, but surgical attenuation (ameroid constrictor or cellophane band) gives the best long‑term outcome; monitor for hepatic encephalopathy and portal hypertension. ([vcahospitals.com](https://vcahospitals.com/city-cats/know-your-pet/portosystemic-shunt-in-dogs?utm_source=openai)) ([pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12617545/?utm_source=openai)) ([merckvetmanual.com](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/digestive-system/hepatic-diseases-of-small-animals/hepatic-portal-venous-hypoperfusion-in-small-animals?utm_source=openai)) ([merckvetmanual.com](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/digestive-system/hepatic-diseases-of-small-animals/hepatic-portal-venous-hypoperfusion-in-small-animals?utm_source=openai))
Collapsed Trachea in Maltese: Causes, Signs & Treatment — Tracheal collapse in senior Maltese is usually due to congenital cartilage weakness worsened by age, chronic airway inflammation, obesity, or respiratory infections. Classic signs are a persistent “goose‑honking” cough, exercise intolerance, gagging, and respiratory distress. Treatment focuses on weight loss, using a harness instead of collars, bronchodilators, corticosteroids, cough suppressants, infection control, and tracheal stenting or surgery for severe cases.
Dental Disease in Maltese Dogs: Prevention, Cleaning & Care — Maltese—especially seniors—are highly prone to periodontal disease. Prevent it with daily home care (toothbrushing with canine toothpaste, antiseptic rinses, appropriate dental chews), routine veterinary dental exams, and professional cleanings under anesthesia every 6–12 months as advised. Cleanings and anesthetic protocols should be individualized for cardiac, hepatic, or airway comorbidities to preserve comfort and reduce systemic health risks.
White Shaker Syndrome in Maltese: Symptoms & Treatment Plan — White shaker syndrome in senior Maltese presents with acute–subacute, generalized high‑frequency tremors, head bobbing, anxiety, pacing and mild ataxia with otherwise normal mentation. Diagnosis uses neurologic exam, CBC/chem, thyroid testing, MRI and CSF to exclude other causes. Treatment is immunosuppressive corticosteroids (prednisone) with benzodiazepines or acepromazine for tremor control, gradual tapering, and monitoring for hypothyroidism or cardiac comorbidities.
IBD and Food Sensitivities in Maltese: Diagnosis & Diet — Diagnose IBD/food sensitivity in senior Maltese with thorough history, physical exam, fecal testing, CBC/chem (including cobalamin), abdominal ultrasound, and response to an 8–12‑week elimination diet (novel or hydrolyzed protein). Definitive IBD requires intestinal biopsies via endoscopy or surgery. Management prioritizes long‑term elimination or hydrolyzed diet, cobalamin supplementation if deficient, immunosuppressives as needed, probiotics/omega‑3, and monitoring for pancreatitis, dental disease, and cardiac comorbidities.
Chronic Pancreatitis in Maltese: Signs, Diet, and Care — Senior Maltese with chronic pancreatitis often show intermittent vomiting, abdominal pain or a hunched posture, decreased appetite, lethargy, weight loss, and greasy or soft stools. Management focuses on veterinary‑supervised low‑fat, highly digestible meals fed in small portions, weight control, hydration, analgesic and antiemetic therapy as needed, and regular monitoring (PLI/lipase, ultrasound). Coordinate care for diabetes and hyperlipidemia.
Dry Eye (KCS) in Maltese: Prevention and Treatment Tips — Dry eye (KCS) in senior Maltese should be diagnosed early with a Schirmer tear test (STT). Treatment includes long-term topical immunomodulators (cyclosporine or tacrolimus), frequent lubricating tear supplements, and regular ophthalmic rechecks. Adjust therapy for breed-specific sensitivities, address concurrent conditions or medications that worsen tear production, and coordinate ongoing care with your veterinarian.
Hypothyroidism in Maltese: Symptoms, Testing, Treatment — Senior Maltese with hypothyroidism commonly show lethargy, weight gain, cold intolerance, dry/patchy coat, symmetric alopecia, recurrent skin infections, and slowed mentation. Diagnose with paired tests (total T4 and TSH; confirm with free T4 by equilibrium dialysis or thyroid autoantibody testing if needed). Treat with oral levothyroxine titrated to response and monitored by serial T4/TSH and comorbidity checks (cardiac, endocrine, skin).

Daily Care

Age-Related Changes in Maltese Dogs: What to Expect — By 8–9 years Maltese often develop mitral valve disease, dental disease, patellar luxation, cataracts, portosystemic shunts, tracheal collapse, and White Shaker Syndrome. Regular cardiac, dental, orthopedic, ophthalmic and hepatic screening, weight and airway management, dental care, and early treatment plans tailored to the individual can detect problems earlier and significantly improve quality of life and longevity.
When Is a Maltese Considered Senior? Age, Signs & Timeline — Maltese are considered senior at 8–9 years. From this stage, increase veterinary checkups and monitor for common age‑related conditions: myxomatous mitral valve disease, dental disease, luxating patella, cataracts, portosystemic shunt, collapsed trachea, and white shaker syndrome. Early detection through routine cardiac, dental, orthopedic, and ophthalmic exams improves quality of life.
Maltese Aging Guide: How Your Toy Dog Changes Over Time — Maltese enter seniority at about 8–9 years and need breed-specific monitoring for heart disease, dental disease, patellar luxation, early cataracts, tracheal collapse, portosystemic shunts (PSS) and white shaker syndrome. Schedule biannual physicals with dental care, cardiac auscultation (± echocardiography), ophthalmic checks, baseline bloodwork, and prompt evaluation of tremors, coughing, exercise intolerance or behavior change.
Senior Care Basics for Maltese: Health, Grooming & Diet — Senior Maltese (8–9 years) need biannual vet checks with cardiac auscultation for mitral valve disease, orthopedic assessment for luxating patella, ophthalmic exams for cataracts, and bloodwork/urinalysis to screen for PSS. Prioritize dental cleanings, soft or dental-formulated senior diet high in quality protein and omega‑3s, weight control, joint supplements, harnesses instead of neck collars for tracheal collapse, and prompt treatment for white shaker syndrome.
Complete Grooming Guide for Maltese: White Coat Care Tips — Senior Maltese need daily gentle brushing to prevent matting, weekly baths with a whitening or tear‑stain–safe shampoo, and careful face trimming to reduce staining. Use a harness (not a collar) to protect a collapsing trachea, provide regular dental cleanings, and keep grooming sessions short and calm for dogs with mitral valve disease. Consult your veterinarian for individualized frequency and products.
Preventing Dental Disease in Maltese: Daily Oral Care Plan — Daily brushing with a soft brush and enzymatic canine toothpaste is the cornerstone for senior Maltese—aim two to three minutes. Add toy‑sized dental chews or a veterinary dental diet; use chlorhexidine gel or a water additive if brushing isn’t possible. Have dental exams and professional cleanings every six to twelve months with pre‑anesthetic bloodwork/ECG to address common comorbidities (heart, kidney, liver, diabetes).
Sleep and Rest Needs for Maltese: Creating a Comfortable Bed — Senior Maltese sleep best on a low‑entry, supportive orthopedic bed with firm memory foam, bolstered sides for head support, and a washable nonslip cover. Add a shallow ramp or low step to avoid jumping (patellar/MVD/tracheal concerns), use a harness instead of a collar, keep bedding warm and draft‑free, provide night lighting for vision loss, and follow a consistent routine with vet‑managed pain/medication.
Home Setup for Maltese: Reducing Tracheal & Mobility Risks — For senior Maltese: use a well‑fitting harness (not a neck collar), soft elevated bed, nonslip flooring and short ramps or low steps to avoid stairs. Maintain ideal weight, gentle low‑impact walks, joint supplements/physiotherapy, strict dental hygiene, and regular vet checks for cardiac, dental, hepatic, ocular and neurologic issues. Control air quality, follow medications, and seek prompt care for coughing or stumbling.
Senior Maltese Routine: Daily Care Adjustments After 8 Years — For an 8–9‑year‑old Maltese, daily care should include weight control and a liver‑supportive, low‑sodium diet; twice‑daily tooth brushing and periodic professional cleanings; gentle low‑impact exercise, joint supplements (omega‑3, glucosamine) and padded bedding for orthopedic health; routine cardiac monitoring and administration of prescribed meds; observe for respiratory noise and use a humidifier if needed; check eyes daily, use vet‑recommended lubricants, and schedule biannual exams and bloodwork.
Tear Staining & Grooming for Maltese: Keep White Coats Bright — Control tear stains in senior Maltese by daily gentle eye cleaning with sterile saline or vet‑approved wipes, keeping facial hair trimmed and bowls stainless steel to reduce staining. Rule out underlying causes—tear‑duct blockage, dental disease, allergies, or ocular infection—via regular veterinary checks. Use mild, whitening‑safe shampoos, avoid harsh chemicals, maintain hydration and routine dental care; consult your vet before supplements or topical treatments.
Seasonal Care for Maltese: Protecting Toy Dogs Year-Round — Senior Maltese need year‑round, season‑specific care: schedule regular dental cleanings and daily home brushing to prevent periodontal disease; monitor for mitral valve disease with annual cardiology exams and weight control; provide low‑impact exercise, joint supplements, ramps and nonslip flooring for mobility; protect airways from cold/dry or hot/humid extremes by avoiding smoke, drafts and overheating; monitor liver/neurologic function with routine bloodwork and medication adjustments.

Prevention

Maltese Lifespan Factors: Genes, Care & Health Risks — Average Maltese lifespan is 12–15 years; genetics (e.g., liver shunts, mitral valve disease, luxating patella, progressive retinal atrophy), dental disease and obesity strongly influence longevity. Regular screening—annual bloodwork, cardiac auscultation, dental care, ophthalmic exams and weight management—plus early treatment of chronic conditions, balanced diet, consistent exercise and parasite prevention improve senior Maltese health and lifespan.
Maltese Health Screening Timeline: When to Test at Every Age — Maltese screening timeline: Puppies (8–12 weeks): baseline physical, dental check, orthopedic (patella) screen, CBC/Chem. At 6–12 months: repeat orthopedic and cardiac auscultation; echocardiogram if murmur. Adults (1–7 years): annual dental cleaning, cardiac auscultation ± echo, ophthalmic exam, routine bloodwork including liver tests. Seniors (7+ years): exams every 6–12 months with CBC/Chem, T4, echo if indicated, orthopedic and neurologic reassessments and thoracic radiographs for respiratory signs.
Vaccination Schedule for Maltese: Tailored for Toy Dogs — For senior Maltese, maintain core protection (distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus) with an adult series, then use serologic titers every one to three years to guide revaccination—boost only if titers are low. Rabies must follow local legal intervals. Adjust for comorbidities or immunosuppression (favor titers, avoid routine boosters) and assess lifestyle-driven noncore vaccines with your veterinarian.

Mobility

Luxating Patella in Maltese Dogs: Prevention & Mobility Tips — Senior Maltese are prone to medial patellar luxation. Prevent and manage it with weight control, low‑impact exercise (controlled walks, underwater treadmill), targeted physiotherapy/strengthening, joint supplements as advised, non‑slip surfaces, ramps and regular orthopedic exams. Surgical correction may be considered but requires pre‑op cardiac (mitral valve disease), tracheal and liver evaluation to minimize anesthesia risk. Pain management and tailored rehab optimize mobility.
Gentle Exercise for Maltese Seniors: Low-Impact Mobility Tips — For senior Maltese (8–9 years) use short low‑impact walks (10–15 minutes, 2–3× daily) with a harness, swim or underwater treadmill 1–2× weekly, gentle passive and active range‑of‑motion and balance exercises on non‑slip surfaces, and avoid stairs/jumping to protect luxating patella and trachea. Maintain ideal weight, consider joint supplements, and get a veterinary exam with pain assessment first.

Nutrition

Senior Maltese Diet Plan: Nutrients for Heart and Liver Health — Senior Maltese diets should preserve lean mass with high‑quality, easily digestible protein while controlling sodium to reduce strain from mitral valve disease. Include EPA/DHA omega‑3s for cardiac support, moderate calories to prevent obesity, and liver‑supportive nutrients (antioxidants, limited copper). Use vet‑guided supplements such as SAMe or silybin and regular bloodwork to tailor care.
Feeding Schedule for Maltese: Small Meals for Sensitive Stomachs — Feed senior Maltese with sensitive stomachs 3–4 small, measured meals daily to reduce gastric upset and keep blood sugar stable. Offer easily digestible, low-fat, high-quality protein and moist or softened food to aid dental disease and swallowing. Tailor calories to ideal weight and adjust for conditions (MVD, PSS, tracheal collapse, white shaker syndrome) under your veterinarian’s guidance.
Top Supplements for Maltese Seniors: Joints, Heart, Digestion — Maltese seniors (8–9 yrs): prioritize joint support (glucosamine/chondroitin ± MSM, omega‑3 EPA/DHA, green‑lipped mussel), cardiac support (omega‑3, taurine/L‑carnitine ± CoQ10 when indicated) and digestion (probiotics, prebiotics, digestive enzymes). Use small‑breed dosing, add one product at a time, monitor weight, stool and pancreatitis risk with fatty supplements, and get baseline bloodwork and a veterinary cardiac exam first.
Weight Management for Toy Maltese: Avoiding Obesity Safely — For a senior Toy Maltese, aim for gradual, veterinarian-supervised weight loss of about 1–2% bodyweight per week using a calorie-restricted, high-quality protein plan to preserve lean mass. Soften food for dental issues, tailor sodium/other adjustments for cardiac or hepatic disease (avoid routine protein restriction unless hepatic encephalopathy), add controlled low‑impact exercise, and recheck every 2–4 weeks with your vet. ([aaha.org](https://www.aaha.org/resources/2021-aaha-nutrition-and-weight-management-guidelines/weight-reduction-in-the-obese-pet/?utm_source=openai))

Cognitive

Mental Enrichment for Maltese: Puzzle Games & Training Ideas — Provide short (5–10 minute), low‑impact sessions using scent work, snuffle mats, slow‑release food puzzles with softened kibble, and low‑effort clicker/target training. Focus on stationary tasks (nose touches, paw targets) to protect joints and airways; use soft, low‑abrasion chews and liver‑friendly treats in small amounts. Monitor heart rate, fatigue, and neurologic signs; consult your veterinarian before new activities.

Behavior

Understanding Behavioral Changes in Aging Maltese Dogs — Behavioral changes in aging Maltese—restlessness, anxiety, disorientation, reduced activity, vocalization, or house‑soiling—often reflect treatable medical issues such as mitral valve disease, luxating patella, cataracts, portosystemic shunts, dental disease, collapsed trachea, or white shaker syndrome. Early veterinary examination, diagnosis, and targeted medical, surgical, or supportive management commonly improve comfort, mobility, and quality of life.
Introducing a Maltese to Multi-Pet Homes: Safety & Harmony — Before introduction, have a veterinarian assess the 8–9‑year‑old Maltese for pain, vision or hearing loss and adjust mobility aids. Use scent exchanges, neutral‑territory meetings, and short supervised face‑to‑face sessions. Provide separate food, beds and escape routes, gradually increase interaction, monitor body language for stress or aggression, manage chronic conditions (pain, dental, heart), and consult a behaviorist if needed.

End Of Life

End-of-Life Planning for Maltese: Compassionate Checklist — Vet-recommended end-of-life checklist for Maltese: monitor common senior issues—dental disease, osteoarthritis/patellar luxation, cardiac and kidney decline, and vision/hearing loss. Schedule biannual wellness exams, pain and nutrition reviews, dental care, and baseline labwork. Create a quality-of-life scoring plan, document euthanasia and aftercare preferences (cremation/burial), appoint a decision-maker, and discuss palliative/hospice options with your veterinarian.
Assessing Quality of Life for Senior Maltese: A Guide — Assess quality of life in a senior Maltese by tracking weight, appetite, mobility, pain, breathing, mentation, grooming, elimination and enjoyment of usual activities. Watch disease‑specific signs: coughing/exercise intolerance or syncope (MVD, tracheal collapse), intermittent lameness or skipping (luxating patella), vision loss (cataracts), tremors/behavior change (white shaker), poor appetite/encephalopathy (PSS), and halitosis or drooling (dental). Use veterinary exams, pain control, and individualized management plans.