What dietary changes should I make for an older pet?
With advances in medical technology, pets are living longer. A small dog or cat may reach old age after 9 years, while large dogs even face health challenges of aging at age 7. At this time, their nutritional needs, digestion and activity patterns change. How can scientific dietary modifications help older pets stay active and prevent disease? This article will combine the latest research and veterinary advice to provide a comprehensive guide for American pet-owning families. I. Understanding Physiological Changes in Older Pets 1.1 Metabolic Deceleration and Decreased Energy Requirements The metabolic rate of older pets declines by about 3-5% per year, which means that the risk of obesity increases significantly even when food intake remains the same. Decreased muscle mass (especially large dogs may lose up to 30% muscle) and reduced activity levels reduce daily calorie requirements by 20-30% compared to adulthood. 1.2 Decline in organ function Reduced...
