A nutritionally balanced diet is one of the keys to good health and longevity for our pets. A good diet is important at every stage of life, including the senior years. Issues plaguing aging senior pets mirror the same issues that plague humans: both physically and mentally, things just don’t work like they used to! Healing takes longer, normal activity levels decrease, and bones and organs experience “wear and tear.” An appropriate diet isn’t a cure-all, but it can have benefits.
As pets age, their gut function decreases. An appropriate diet contains ingredients that are easily digested and promote good gut health. If necessary, your veterinarian may recommend a dietary supplement that helps to establish and maintain “good” microbial populations in the lower gut. “The good bugs help to inhibit the establishment and growth of the bad bugs, which helps reduce the risk for gastrointestinal-related disorders, as well as improving digestion and the nutrient utilization of the food,” Elam says. “And because gut function decreases in senior pets, it is also a good idea to feed a food that has a small increase in fibre to help the process of waste elimination. However, be sure to monitor your pet’s elimination in the litter box or on the lawn because increased fibre typically increases both the amount and looseness of fecal matter.”
Senior diets may also address joint health. They may be supplemented with glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate to aid joint function and stability. That doesn’t mean it’s okay to let your pet put on the pounds. Maintaining a healthy weight is important for joint health and mobility. Older pets frequently have dental issues. If kibble is hard for them to bite down on, consider adding a nutritional broth or gravy or even just a little warm water. Alternatively, feed a combination of canned and dry food.
Similarly, take both digestibility and dental issues into account when choosing treats. Rawhide chews, for example, are high in protein (75 to 80 per cent) and can be particularly tough to chew and swallow. Treats made from muscle protein sources such as heart and lung are nutritious and a much better option for both chewing and digestion. As the senior pet population increases nationwide, such treats are growing in popularity and are readily available. Some brands even highlight on the packaging that they are a good choice for senior pets. Senior pets can also benefit both mentally and physically from toys and games before mealtimes. They may have done so throughout their lives, but now play probably happens at a slower pace.
If your pet has recently had surgery or has been going through a rough patch, ask your veterinarian if dietary supplements can help. “Supplementing essential nutrients not synthesized or stored in the body is never a bad idea,” Elam says. “Most foods are nutritionally fortified with these nutrients to provide a complete, balanced diet, but it never hurts to discuss additional supplementation. The body will utilize what is needed and simply eliminate the rest.” Beware of supplementing vitamins that are stored in the body; toxic levels can build up. Do your homework about SeniorPetNutrition by looking at the various food options on offer from different pet food companies. This way you will be better informed when having a diet discussion with your veterinarian to best customize your pet’s individual needs.
