Welcoming a pet into your life at any stage of your life is always a great choice. With their unconditional love for you, pets bring you so much warmth and happiness. It is also nice to have a constant companion by your side. Other than emotional benefits, their presence is said to have positive impacts on their owner’s physical health too. People reportedly have reduced stress levels and even lowered blood pressure after getting a pet.
The types of pets older adults like to keep varies. They range from the regular dog to smaller ones like birds that add some spark to the day with their melodious chirping. Each animal requires different ways of care as well as financial and physical commitment. Raising a pet is a long-term commitment so you should evaluate all options carefully before making a decision. If you are looking to introduce a furry friend into your life, here are the best pets for seniors that you can consider getting.
Cats
If you want a furry companion that does not make much noise and is a homebody, then cats are what you are looking for. They are relatively easy to care for as they do not require walks or constant attention. Most cats can be described as calm and aloof creatures, making them a great choice for owners who like the company but also values their solitary time.
The best cat breeds for older adults are:
Birman: Smart, gentle, affectionate and playful.
Ragdoll: Calm, laid-back and loving.
British Shorthair: Loyal. Playful breed that mellows with age.
Dogs
It has always been said that dogs are man’s best friend. Indeed, they live up to this saying as they are wonderful pets to play and take daily walks with. As most dogs are quite active, they would be more suitable for persons in independent living. There are many breeds of dogs to choose from, but for older adults, it is recommended to choose breeds that are low-maintenance and smaller in size.
We recommend the following breeds:
Shih Tzu: Perky, cheerful and friendly.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Sweet, gentle and smart.
Maltese: Gentle, smart and lively.
Birds
Colorful creatures that are lovely sight to see daily, birds add some cheer to your days with their singing. They are easy to care for, require little space and do not require constant attention.
The best bird breeds for older adults are:
Parakeets: Sociable, loving, playful and vocal.
Canaries: Independent, cheerful, nice and soft vocals.
Finches: Good natured, happy and sweet. (Best to keep a few together)
Fish
The lowest-maintenance out of all options on the list, fishes are great for senior living. They are quiet, inexpensive as well as require little attention and space. It is calming and relaxing to watch them, and the colorful varieties can give your living space a little splash of color.
Popular fish breeds include:
Bettas: Intelligent.
Tetras: Colorful and active. One of the best fish types for beginners.
Guppies: Hardy breed that can survive even with little water.
