Feeding Your Older Pet: When Nutrition Needs to Shift
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Category: Senior Pet Care
Date: April 2025
Read Time: 6 min
A dog is generally considered senior around age 7, though larger breeds age faster. Cats typically reach senior status around 10 to 11 years.
Switching to a “Senior Formula” is not always enough. Nutritional adjustments require individual evaluation.
The Calorie Question
Many older pets need fewer calories due to lower activity levels. Obesity increases joint strain, heart issues, and diabetes risk.
However, some seniors experience weight loss, known as senior cachexia, and require calorie-dense, highly digestible food.
There is no universal senior diet. Each pet’s condition determines the correct approach.
Key Nutrients to Prioritise
- Omega-3 fatty acids for joint mobility and cognitive support
- Antioxidants such as vitamins E and C
- Phosphorus management in kidney-compromised pets
The Kidney Connection
Chronic kidney disease is common in older cats and increasingly recognised in dogs.
Nutritional management, particularly phosphorus restriction and increased hydration through wet food, can slow disease progression.
Routine bloodwork every 6 to 12 months helps detect issues early and allows timely dietary adjustments.
