Quality of Life Assessment
MOBILITY
Doesn’t get up unassisted, can’t walk on his own
Lies in the same position for hours at a time
Falls frequently
Gets stuck in corners or behind furniture when alone
Can’t get outside (or in litter box) to urinate, defecate. Has accidents
ATTITUDE
Seems depressed and unresponsive
Doesn’t enjoy being with family members or other pets
No longer enjoys normal routines: playing, going for walks, snuggling
Hides away under the bed or in the closet
Shows changes in behavior, like confusion or aggression
Stays up at night; sleeps most of the day
APPETITE
Only eats and drinks with owner assistance
Shows loss of appetite
Vomits and/or has diarrhea chronically
Shows good appetite but weight is dropping
PAIN
Shows resistance to being petted, growls when handled or helped up
Shows difficulty getting up or down
Often stands rather than lying down
Paces, unable to settle in one spot, especially at night
Exhibits changes in breathing or excessive panting
Requires increased doses of medications
HYGIENE
No longer grooms himself, haircoat matted
Urinates or defecates on self; requires frequent cleanup
Has sores that won’t heal