At this time of year we celebrate senior pet month. Animal Fair asked the experts at Iams some questions on how to best care for your older animal.
What kind of changes can I expect to see in my senior pet?
As dogs grow older, activity levels often decrease and muscle mass diminishes, resulting in the need for a pet food with fewer calories and higher protein. Senior dogs may also prefer a food that is easy to chew. IamsÆ Active Maturity Formula for Dogs is well suited to meet the nutritional needs of senior dogs.
What adjustments in diet and exercise should be made for an aging pet?
As a dog or cat ages, changes occur in the way their body functions, so their nutritional needs also change. Following are some health issues to be aware of:
Immune System Function
Recent research sponsored by The Iams Company found that older pets fed a diet rich in antioxidants such as vitamin E, lutein, or beta-carotene had improved immune responses and vaccine recognition.
Skin and Coat Quality
For senior dogs, it is important that the diet contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Because GLA levels may be diminished in older dogs, it may be necessary to add a natural source such as borage oil to your pet’s diet.
Intestinal Health
Feeding your pet a diet containing fructooligosaccharides (FOS) promotes growth of beneficial bacteria. Beet pulp also helps maintain intestinal health.
At what age does a dog or cat become a senior?
A very general rule is that dogs and cats are considered seniors at age 7. If your dog is over 50-pounds, then he’s a senior at age 6. Over 90-pounds? She’s a senior at age 5.
How do I know when my dog or cat needs senior pet food?
Different dogs show signs of aging at different times – generally size is a factor. In general, the age guidelines above can aid you in transitioning your pet from an adult dry premium food to one specially formulated for seniors. Cats are simple – switch them to a senior food at age 7. For dogs, you’ll want to make the switch at age 7 or younger for larger dogs.
As a pet matures, should he be given special supplements / vitamins?
Actually, no! It is important for concerned pet owners to realize that a quality pet food approved by the AAFCO carrying the statement complete and balanced is formulated to meet the caloric needs of the animal. It provides the essential amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals specific to the dog or cat. Adding table scraps or other supplements may disrupt the pet’s delicate nutrient balance.
What are the warning signs of Arthritis?
Arthritis commonly occurs in older pets and can be compounded by obesity. Some of this can be managed by proper nutrition, medical therapy and nutriceuticals. Signs that your pets are feeling some discomfort that may be age or arthritis related is when they don’t run and play the way they used to; sleep more; and move more slowly when awake.
How can I create a more comfortable environment for my senior dog or cat?
Very old age may result in a general reduction in response to stimuli and partial loss of vision, hearing and taste. To avoid startling your loving pet, it’s a good idea to let your pet see your hand in front of her face before picking her up and to call her name before approaching. It is important to:
Minimize stress and change.
Exercise your dog regularly. Taking your dog for two 15-minute walks each day helps maintain muscle tone, enhance circulation, promote digestion and prevent weight gain. For your cat, provide cat “trees” for climbing or throw things she likes to chase.
Smaller, more frequent meals. Try two or three smaller meals.
Routine veterinary checkups and immunizations. Regular dental care and physicals will help to identify subtle changes in health. At home, take a few minutes each month to examine your pet for any irregularities such as odd-shaped bumps or lumps. If you discover something unusual, call your veterinarian.
How can I help my senior pet adjust to a new pet in the home?
Keep resident pets separated from your new pet for a few days. After your new pet is used to his new area let your pets smell and touch each other through the crate or pet gate. Do this several times over the next few days. After that, give the resident pet access to the area and supervise their meeting. Go back to through-the-gate/crate meetings if trouble arises.
Should I limit my dog’s stair climbing as he becomes older? Will this help prevent hip issues?
This is dependent on the individual dog and should be determined by the dog’s veterinarian who is familiar with his situation. Limiting stair climbing may be a way to prevent a dog from losing his balance and falling, and will minimize pain caused by a current condition.
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