Let’s explore how tailored nutrition can benefit cats and dogs entering their senior phase of life.
Healthy Weight Management
Being above ideal bodyweight strains the body, increases the risk of serious disease such as arthritis and diabetes and reduces lifespan. In fact, research with data provided by Banfield Pet Hospital found that the lifespan of overweight dogs was up to 2.5 years shorter, on average, than the lifespan of dogs with a healthy bodyweight. The long-term effects of pet obesity shouldn’t be ignored, especially for senior pets. While feeding guides on pet food packs are a great place to start, the exact amount fed must be tailored to the individual pet’s requirements. This is done by regularly monitoring the pet’s body condition and wellbeing. Weight gain means that the volume of food may need to be cut back, likewise if the pet is losing weight the ration will need to be increased.
Changing Nutritional Needs
Just as puppies and kittens have different nutritional needs to adults, so do senior pets. Advancing age is unfortunately often accompanied by disease such as arthritis or dental issues. There’s also a tendency towards obesity in older dogs due to reduced activity and a decrease in muscle and bone mass. Many older dogs prefer shorter walks and are generally less active. Cats are usually at higher risk of obesity during middle-age, but once they reach the age of around 11 years, can be at an increased risk of weight loss due to metabolic changes. Each pet is an individual, so assessments on body condition and decisions regarding daily energy needs must be made on a case-by-case basis. A specially formulated quality senior diet should be complete and balanced, highly digestible and importantly, tasty.
Cognitive Care
Dental Health
As pets age, they may begin to experience dementia-like symptoms such as memory loss and an altered temperament. Certain nutrients have been shown to help maintain brain function including the Omega 3 fatty acid DHA as well as Choline. Look for these in senior pet food formulations.
If your senior pet shows signs of dental disease such as smelly breath, bleeding gums or difficulty eating, see your vet who can advise on specific treatment options. It’s much better to prevent dental disease than cure it, so a consistent home dental care program is a must. Daily toothbrushing is considered the gold standard in pet dental care, but nutrition can also help. Some dry pet foods contain specially designed kibbles and/or active ingredients that will help reduce plaque and tartar build-up. Also don’t forget about dental treats which can provide additional dental hygiene. If your senior dog or cat has had ongoing dental issues, a softer and easier to chew formula may be more suitable.
Joint Health and Mobility
Support Their Natural Defences
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the number one cause of chronic pain in the dog. Cats can be affected by it too, and an unwillingness to jump is often a more common sign than lameness. Look for senior pet diets that contain nutrients that help promote joint health by protecting the cartilage within the joint. An ingredient such as Freeze Dried Green Lipped Mussel Powder, which contains Glucosamine and Chondroitin, may help promote cartilage regeneration and reduce inflammation for better mobility. A controlled exercise program and weight reduction, if necessary, are also important considerations. Your vet can also advise on additional treatment options which may include medication. Consider your pet’s sleeping arrangements and explore orthopaedic bedding options that can help ease strain on joints.
Egg crate memory foam design allows for more movement and flexibility
While free radicals are produced in the body as a result of normal processes, cellular damage from them becomes more pronounced as a pet’s age increases. This can contribute to the development of disease and degenerative conditions. Dietary antioxidants such as Vitamin E, help neutralise free radicals and are the body’s best natural defence. Premium senior pet food formulas contain dietary antioxidants which also help provide a natural defence against Australia’s climate. In addition to their diet, let’s not forget the little things that make all the difference to your older pet. Take some time for a relaxing cuddle, provide more supportive bedding or fill a food dispensing toy and encourage your pet to find the kibble. Puppy and kitten thrills and spills can be great fun, but there’s a lot to be said for sitting quietly with a long- trusted friend who seems to know your every thought while they happily purr or snore away beside you.
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