Why senior pets may be missing key nutrients as they live longer
Why senior pets may be missing key nutrients as they live longer
Why senior pets may be missing key nutrients as they live longer
Pets are living longer than ever before, yet their nutritional needs in later life remain poorly understood. While dogs and cats now enjoy extended lifespans—thanks to better veterinary care and improved diets—experts warn that current 'senior pet' foods may not meet their actual requirements.
Life expectancy for dogs has risen from 10-11 years in the 1970s to 12-13 years today. Cats now live even longer, with average lifespans increasing from 12-13 years to 15-18 years. Advances in veterinary medicine, preventive healthcare, and obesity management have all played a role. Some pets even reach their 30s, yet no official nutritional guidelines exist for their senior years.
Physiological changes in pets begin at different ages. Cats typically show signs of ageing around eight years old, while dogs vary depending on size. Despite this, the pet food industry lacks clear standards for senior nutrition. Many products labelled as 'senior diets' appear to be marketing-driven rather than scientifically formulated.
Research into age-related conditions has shown promise in experimental settings. However, gathering data on the oldest and most vulnerable pets presents practical difficulties. Emma Bermingham, Ph.D., founder of Ember Pet Nutrition, highlights this gap and calls for industry-wide action. She will discuss the issue at an upcoming forum on April 28, urging the sector to establish senior-specific nutritional guidelines.
Bermingham stresses the need for defined nutrient minimums and maximums tailored to older pets. Without these, current diets may fail to address conditions linked to ageing, leaving senior animals at risk of inadequate nutrition.
The pet food industry faces growing pressure to adapt as pets live longer. Clearer nutritional standards could improve health outcomes for ageing dogs and cats. Bermingham's upcoming forum aims to push for changes that ensure senior pets receive the diet they truly need.