Physical characteristics of dogs entering old age: 1. Declining metabolism, declining energy and declining organ function. 2. Reduced food intake, reduced muscle tone, accelerated calcium loss and stiff joints. 3. Coat of senior dogs, prone to tangling, dry and scaly skin due to reduced sebaceous gland secretion. 4. Hearing and vision will be gradually lost as the dog ages. 5. Older dogs often have dental and gum disease, which These diseases can affect eating. The top 5 fatalities in older dogs are cancer 47% heart disease 12% kidney disease 7% liver disease 4% epilepsy 4% So what kind of nutrition do older dogs and cats need? Older dogs and cats generally need low-calorie foods to help prevent obesity, which is a common problem that older dogs will encounter. This is especially important for thin, sick dogs and cats because of the higher quality of protein needed for a nutritious liquid diet! High in fiber to help improve gastrointestinal health. Provide a healthy, low-fat (to prevent pancreatitis), low-sodium snack-based diet. Water needs increase with age, as the body needs water for balance, and as the body ages more function begins to decline, so remember to make sure older dogs have enough water. Older dogs need high quality protein The Dog and Cat Nutrition Needs Report, published in 2006, states that older dogs need to consume higher levels of protein (about 50% more than the average adult dog) to maintain an optimal immune response, heal wounds, and to ensure good health in old age. Note: 1-year-old dogs need 2.5 g of protein per kilogram of body weight per day, and 12- to 13-year-old dogs need 3.75 g of protein per kilogram of body weight per day both AAFCO (American Association of Feed Control Officials) and the American Council on Nutrient Management (National Research Council both) recognize the rules this nutritional requirement older pets, should not reduce protein intake, but should consume high-quality protein. If the animal is in a lethargic caloric deficit, too much protein will serve as a source of energy. Suggestions for nutritional adjustments for older dogs and cats: 1. Do not feed foods with too much salt to increase the burden on the heart. 2. Reduce the intake of fat. (Note: Fat is essential to the body, not absent but reduced.) 3. Reduce caloric (energy) sugar intake to prevent gaining weight. 4. Adjust protein intake and choose high-quality protein, especially for overly thin, sick, or surgical dogs and cats. 5. Pay attention to calcium loss and take appropriate calcium supplements. 6. Choose foods designed for older pets to balance nutrition. aafco’s specific food requirements for older dogs and cats Requirements are as follows: Contains complex carbohydrates with a low glycemic index, such as whole grains and vegetables Contains an above-average proportion of easily digestible proteins, such as lean meats, offal and eggs Contains a moderate amount of healthy fats (10 – 15%), including essential fatty acids Contains added minerals and vitamins, including zinc, copper, selenium and vitamins A, D, E and K+ B1,2,3,5, 6 – 12. folic acid and biotin.
