The Best Food and Supplements for an Ageing Pet
As our beloved pets enter their golden years, providing them with the right nutrition to support their ageing bodies becomes more important. Just like us, pets experience changes in their metabolism, joints, and overall health as they age.
Let’s explore some of the best food and supplements available in New Zealand to ensure that your senior pet receives the best products for joint health, arthritis and general well-being.Â
Quality Senior Pet Food:Â
Choosing the right food for your senior pet is great for their overall health and well-being. Look for high-quality senior pet food that is specifically formulated for older pets and has joint benefits included. These products are designed to address the needs of ageing pets, such as joint support, digestive health, and weight management.Â
In New Zealand, there are several reputable pet food brands that offer specialised diets suited to senior pets. Brands such as Royal Canin, Eukanuba, and Hill’s Science Diet, provide a range of options tailored to meet the nutritional requirements of ageing pets. These foods are often enriched with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support their immune system and promote optimal health.Â
Joint Health Supplements for Senior Pets:Â
Joint issues, such as arthritis, are common in ageing pets. To help alleviate discomfort and maintain mobility, consider incorporating joint health supplements into your pet’s diet. Glucosamine, chondroitin sulphate, and omega-3 fatty acids are commonly recommended supplements for joint support. Some great brands include Antinol, 4Cyte and many others formulated for arthritis and joint disease in pets.Â
In New Zealand, you can find joint health supplements specifically formulated for pets. Look for reputable brands like Antinol, 4Cyte and MyBeau, which are known for their effectiveness in supporting joint health and reducing inflammation.Â
Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Senior Pets:Â
Omega-3 fatty acids play a vital role in maintaining your pet’s cognitive function, and skin health, and promoting a healthy coat. These essential fatty acids can also help reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health in ageing pets.
New Zealand is renowned for its abundant marine resources, making it an ideal place to find high-quality omega-3 supplements for pets. Look for fish oil supplements derived from sustainable sources. Products such as Synoquin are great because they contain a high concentration of krill for omega 3’s and high-quality Glucosamine and Chondroitin and are easy to administer as part of a daily feeding regime.Â
Antioxidants and Vitamins for Senior Pets:Â Â
As pets age, their bodies become more susceptible to oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. Including antioxidants and vitamins in their diet can help counteract these effects and support their overall health. In New Zealand, you can find supplements that contain antioxidants like vitamins C and E, beta-carotene and selenium. These ingredients can help boost your pet’s immune system, support cognitive function, and promote healthy ageing. Make sure to consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate antioxidant and vitamin supplements for your pet.Â
Proper nutrition is essential for maintaining the health and well-being of ageing pets. By choosing high-quality senior pet food, incorporating joint health supplements, providing omega-3 fatty acids, and including antioxidants and vitamins you can help support your pet's health in their golden years. A veterinarian will be able to assist you with any dietary changes or the introduction of new supplements. They can provide personalised recommendations based on your pet’s specific needs and health conditions. You can speak to our Your PetPA NZ experts to discuss your senior pet’s health needs with us further and develop a treatment plan for your pet.Â
