THE IMPORTANCE OF NUTRITION ADAPTED TO THIS PHASE
The goal of specific feeding during this phase is to minimise the negative consequences of ageing in order to improve their quality of life and increase their longevity as far as possible.
OBESITY OR LACK OF APPETITE
One of the most frequent problems we can encounter with a senior dog is obesity due to reduced activity, which is common at this age and brings with it weight gain for the pet.
However, the opposite can happen to other animals due to a lack of appetite, be it because they start to lose their sense of taste and smell with age, or because of other health problems (endocrine, dental and renal diseases, etc.).
For this reason, in these cases it is necessary to give t hem very palatable foods that are also easy to eat in order to stimulate the appetite. There are dry foods especially designed for dogs with dental problems, especially adapted for this age range.
Health problems will directly influence the type of food that should be given to the pet, and it will be necessary for the vet to draw up a diet plan to suit their condition.
WHAT ARE THE CHANGES IN THE NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR SENIOR DOGS?
Generally, the following changes to their nutritional requirements should be considered:
- Energy intake should be controlled due to the reduction in metabolic rate and their activity levels, controlling fat content, while maintaining adequate levels of high-quality protein in order to slow the loss of muscle.
- Fibre levels can help us control intestinal transit and weight.
- Vitamins are fundamental during this period as they fulfil various functions:
- Vitamins A and E protect the skin and mucous membranes and help prevent the development of tumors.
- Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and helps slow cognitive deterioration.
- Water-soluble vitamins, B-complex vitamins and biotin improve the health of the skin and hair.
Advice from Canun®
For these animals, it is important to control the ingestion of food and water, therefore it is often recommendable to provide rationed food rather than making it freely available, particularly in cases of obesity.
Always ask the opinion of your vet in order to guarantee your pet's good health