Proper Nutrition for Senior Pets: Adjusting Their Diet with Age

 

Proper Nutrition for Senior Pets: Adjusting Their Diet with Age

As pets enter their golden years, their nutritional needs change. Adjusting food texture, calorie content, and nutrient levels according to your aging pet's health allows them to continue enjoying tasty, easily digestible meals. Work with your veterinarian to select premium senior diets, properly measure portions, and incorporate any necessary supplements into their eating routine.

Table of Contents

• Changing Energy Requirements
• Special Senior Diets
• Supplement Recommendations
• Adjusting Feeding Techniques
• Identifying Eating Issues
• Importance of Hydration

Changing Energy Requirements

With slower metabolisms and activity levels, senior pets require fewer calories. Reduce amounts to prevent obesity.

• Cut kibble weight by 25-30%
• Divide meals into smaller, more frequent portions
• Switch to specially formulated senior diets

Monitor weight closely and adjust as needed to keep your aging pet fit but not too thin.

Special Senior Diets

Look for food engineered for older pets with:

• Lower calories and fat
• Increased fiber for digestion
• Higher protein to maintain muscle
• Lower phosphorus for kidney health
• Antioxidants for immune function

Prescription formulas address urinary, kidney, weight, and dental issues.

Supplement Recommendations

Discuss supplementing food with:

• Joint support like glucosamine
• Probiotics for gut health
• Omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat
• Cognitive function boosters

Consult your vet before giving supplements to avoid interactions.

Adjusting Feeding Techniques

Make mealtimes easier for your senior pet by:

• Raising food and water bowls
• Switching to softer, canned food
• Warming refrigerated food to increase aroma
• Hand feeding for finicky eaters

Adapting food delivery boosts intake and ensures adequate nutrition.

Identifying Eating Issues

Note any signs of difficulty like:

• Discomfort chewing or swallowing
• Tooth loss impacting eating
• Decreased sense of smell or taste
• Weight loss from inadequate nutrition

Bring eating concerns to your vet's attention for evaluation.

Importance of Hydration

Make fresh water available daily. Consider:

• Multiple bowls around your home
• Fountains to encourage drinking
• Canned or broth foods to increase fluid

Adequate hydration prevents kidney issues and supports health.

Adjusting food amounts and types while monitoring closely allows senior pets to age gracefully on a complete, easily digestible diet tailored to their needs.