Nutrition matters for senior pets

Nutrition matters for senior pets

Getting the right mix of nutrients for our pet’s age and health can make a huge difference to their quality of life.

We all know that good nutrition is a basic building block for maintaining good health, and this goes for our pets too.

Why nutrition changes for senior pets

As our pet’s age, their metabolism changes too. Muscle loss, reduced activity levels and health conditions can influence their metabolism, meaning they are not burning through the calories the way they used to. Ensuring you are feeding your pet the right amount of calories will help them maintain a healthy weight range.

Maintaining a healthy weight

Keeping your pet at a healthy weight is important at any age, but especially for our senior pets. If your pet is carrying more than their fair share of weight, this will put increased stress on their joints. Keeping your pet at their optimum body condition will help minimise pain and discomfort they may experience as they get older and their joints change. 

Key nutrients for older pets

Feeding the right nutrients for your pet as they age is important too. There is a range of complete and balanced veterinary foods available that have been specifically formulated to help manage health problems we see in older pets. These foods may contain special ingredients that:

  • help reduce inflammation and support healthy joints
  • include antioxidants for brain health
  • appropriately balanced protein and mineral levels to ease the workload on your pet’s kidneys. 

How your veterinarian can help

There are many different nutritional options available, including therapeutic diets that allow management of health changes through carefully formulated nutrition. Your veterinarian will be able to recommend a suitable diet for your pet that balances their health needs.

Regular check-ups with your veterinarian will help identify changes in your pet’s health early, so treatment or management of the condition can be started, and your pet can maintain their quality of life for longer.

Book an appointment with your local Animates Vetcare clinic to discuss your pet’s nutrition and find out what would be best for your pet.

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