Senior Pet care: Nutrition and Wellness Tips for Older Animals

As our beloved pets age, their needs change, and they deserve extra attention to ensure they remain happy, healthy, and comfortable. Senior pets, just like senior humans, often experience different challenges such as slower metabolisms, joint issues, and changes in dietary needs.

At Nature's Ki, we understand the importance of providing tailored care for older animals. We’re here to guide you on how to support your senior pets through their golden years.

1. Why Senior Pet Nutrition Matters

As pets age, their metabolism slows down, and they may have trouble digesting certain ingredients. Senior pet food is designed to meet their unique nutritional needs, providing a well-balanced diet that supports joint health, healthy weight, and overall vitality. Look for foods with high protein levels, lower fat, and higher fibre.

For cats and dogs, premium brands like ACANA and ORIJEN offer specialised formulas for senior pets, ensuring that they receive the optimal nutrients they need. These high-quality foods focus on digestible proteins and ingredients that are easy on aging digestive systems.

2. Joint Health: A Top Priority

As pets age, joint problems like arthritis become more common. Joint health is essential for senior pets, so choosing a food or supplement that includes ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin is vital. These nutrients help promote mobility, reduce discomfort, and support overall joint function. A great option is Pet Kelp’s Joint & Bone Formula, for your dog’s daily helping of glucosamine. Additionally, regular, low-impact exercise (such as short walks or gentle playtime) can help keep your pet active and avoid stiffness.

3. Maintaining Healthy Weight

Obesity is a common issue in senior pets, as their activity levels decrease, but their appetites often remain the same. Excess weight can lead to other health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and joint strain. Ensure your senior pet is on a well-balanced diet that supports their ideal body weight.

Portion control, regular feeding times, and healthy treats are all essential in maintaining a healthy weight. You can also consider foods that are lower in calories but still packed with essential nutrients. ACANA and ORIJEN senior formulas are an excellent option for maintaining weight and muscle tone, helping older pets stay lean and active.

4. Dental Care for Senior Pets

Dental health is crucial at any stage of life, but it becomes even more important as pets age. Gum disease and tooth loss can cause pain and discomfort, impacting their ability to eat and enjoy their food. Brushing and a proper diet can help prevent oral issues.

5. Caring for Your Senior Pet’s Emotional Health

Just as physical health is important, emotional well-being also plays a role in your pet’s quality of life. Senior pets may experience changes in behaviour, such as increased anxiety or a decrease in interest in playtime. It's important to keep your pet mentally stimulated with toys, puzzles, and new experiences while also providing a calm and comfortable environment.

6. Why Choose Premium Pet Food for Senior Pets?

When it comes to your senior pet’s diet, opting for premium pet food brands is one of the best decisions you can make. Brands like ACANA and ORIJEN prioritise high-quality ingredients that are specially designed to meet the needs of aging animals. They contain the right mix of proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals to support your pet’s aging body, while also being gentle on their digestive system.

Additionally, premium pet food is often free from fillers ensuring your senior pet only gets the best. Focus on pet food that is carbohydrate limited. This means no wheat, corn, rice, potato or tapioca that could lead to unstable blood-sugar levels and weight gain. You won’t find any of those ingredients in ACANA and ORIJEN’s senior recipes.

Give Your Senior Pet the Care They Deserve

As your pet enters their golden years, it's essential to adjust their diet, exercise, and overall care to keep them happy and healthy. With the right nutrition, exercise, and care, your senior pet can enjoy their later years with the same joy and enthusiasm they had as a youngster.

At Nature's Ki, we’re here to help you provide the best care for your senior pets. Shop our range of premium pet food brands today to ensure your senior pet gets the nutrition they deserve.