Senior Pets Diet Nutrition

Top tips for feeding your senior pet

As pets enter their golden years, they may experience some age-related physical changes such as weight loss, decreased mobility and changes in organ function. Their teeth and gums may become more sensitive, leading to a decrease in appetite and, ultimately, weight loss.

    Adjusting your pet’s diet and feeding plan as they age may help keep your pet healthy, as well as help manage many medical problems.

    Always ensure your pet stays hydrated, as older pets can have a decreased sense of thirst. Spread water bowls around the house to encourage regular drinking.

    Feeding older cats and dogs that are losing weight

    For an older pet that is losing weight, it's essential to provide nutrient-dense food that’s easy to digest. Wet or canned food can be beneficial as it is softer and often more appealing to cats and dogs with dental issues. 

    How much wet food and dry food to feed a senior dog or cat

    The answer varies! How much wet food or dry food to feed a senior dog really depends on the pet’s breed, activity level and body condition. It can be challenging to know how much to feed a senior cat—whether it’s wet food (canned) or dry food. So it is important to connect with your veterinarian about your pet’s nutrition. 

    Controlling calorie intake

    Your pet’s energy requirements decline as they age. Adjust their food intake, size and frequency of meals as needed. You might need to switch to lower- or higher-calorie foods to maintain your pet’s healthy body condition. Monitor their weight and consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.

    Providing an ideal mix of nutrients

    As your pet ages, their nutritional needs can change. Adjust their diet to manage chronic diseases such as kidney disease, arthritis or other joint diseases. Talk with your veterinarian to ensure that your pet's diet meets their needs as they age. Your veterinarian may also recommend a dental diet or softer food that is easier to chew.

    Shop senior pet food options to find a diet ideal for your pet. >>

    Get Your Free First Exam For New Patients
    detection for early signs

    Expert Dog Conditions Resources

    *Covered services vary by plan. Unlimited exams exclude specialty and telemedicine exams. Plan includes (i) one Specialty Care consult at a participating VCA Specialty Hospital and (ii) one waived fee (up to $300) for an emergency or specialty consult at a participating BluePearl Pet Hospital, per year. Fees will apply for other services or products provided, including emergency stabilization, treatment, diagnostic tests, medications, and hospitalization. Plan pricing requires 12-month commitment.

    CareClub Memberships are preventive pet health care plans and not pet insurance.
    CareClub Membership covers only the selected health care services and products which are specifically identified in the applicable CareClub Membership agreement.

    VCA Animal Hospitals, BluePearl Pet Hospitals, and Banfield Pet Hospitals are affiliates of Mars Inc.

    **Live Chat with a licensed veterinary professional is free for VCA clients through the myVCA mobile app, available at Apple’s App Store and Google Play.

    Free First Exam only for new clients (including those not seen in 3+ years) and eligible existing clients adding a new pet. Limit two pets (dogs or cats only) per household. The exam includes a status check on weight, nutrition and general health, parasite discussion, dental check and vaccination overview only. Not valid toward any other services including: any specialty, emergency, telemedicine and/or urgent care veterinary services; boarding or grooming services; any diagnostics or treatments; or any vaccines, medications or retail items. Not to be combined with any other offer. Redeemable only at the VCA Animal Hospitals location listed. For pet owners who are aged 18 and older. No cash value.

    Florida Residents: THE PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT.

    NJ Residents: First Exam Regular Price Range: $75 to $150. NJ Licensee: Anthony Loomis, DVM.

    Free First Dose offer valid for new patients receiving a qualifying initial exam at participating VCA Animal Hospitals. Offer applies only where an eligible parasite prevention product included in the program is prescribed and dispensed during the visit, as determined by the attending veterinarian. Eligible products only; not valid toward other products or services. Limit two pets (dogs or cats only) per household. Not combinable with other offers. Must be 18 years or older. No cash value.