Nutritional needs and health outcomes of ageing cats and dogs: is it time for updated nutrient guidelines?

Abstract

Implications

• While cats are classed as senior at 10 years of chronological age, physiological and health changes occur from 8 years of age and it appears that diet may influence the ageing process. • Dogs are classed as senior at 12 years for smaller dogs and 10 years for larger breeds. Due to differences in longevity associated with breed size a definite age that dogs start to experience changes is difficult to establish. • Despite our pets ageing, living in extreme cases to 30 + years, there are no explicit nutritional guidelines for feeding ageing animals. Increased scientific knowledge around the specific nutritional requirements of ageing cats and dogs is required. • Many of the underlying physiological processes (e.g., immune function) and age-associated health conditions (e.g., cognitive decline) respond to nutritional intervention. This suggests that nutritional and regulatory guidelines, should consider recommendations for ‘senior+’ pets. • Due to the unique nutritional requirements of cats and dogs, more specific knowledge around the mechanisms of ageing is required.