Older Animals and Protein   

Petnutritioninfo.com Newsletter         8 Aug 04

Hi, and welcome to the Petnutritioninfo.com newsletter!

MEDICAL TOPIC:  Over the years there has been much debate about how to feed older animals
especially in regards to protein levels.  Not much more than a decade or so ago, it was felt we 
should restrict protein intake in our seniors and geriatrics to protect organ functions, especially 
the kidneys.

Recent data has proven out exactly the opposite.  Our aged companions very well may need 
similar protein levels as puppies and kittens, or about 50 percent more than what a 
middle-aged pet might need.  This helps maintain muscle mass, supports the immune 
system and protects against various stresses. 

Now, of course if an older pet does have kidney disease especially due to leaking of protein 
through the kidneys, then a lower amount of high quality protein is appropriate.

Any pet at any age with liver disease will require special protein, and restriction of protein 
intake, as well.

It is a fallacy though that protein, in and of itself, causes kidney disease or failure. Aggravation 
of existing conditions is true though.

This is fairly new data to me and I suspect as pet food companies continue to make more 
and more specialized diets, we will see this changed in senior pet foods.

Be sure to consult with your veterinarian before making any diet change to ensure there is 
no medical reason against it.  Certainly yearly blood work and urine tests are appropraite 
for  all pets 7 years or older to make sure the correct diet is fed.  Also, if changing foods, 
do so gradually over 3 to 5 days mixing the old food with the new so to prevent diarrhea 
or other stomach upsets.

RECOMMENDED READING:  "All Creatures Great and Small"  by James Herriot.  This is 
a classic book of stories about an old time veterinarian and his adventures with clients 
and animals.  Warms the heart and puts a smile on one's face.  This is one of the first 
books I read as a child about animals and I always enjoy picking it up again.

WEBSITE NEWS:  Currently data is being gathered on various pet supplements in 
regards to how they aid a pets health, quality , and cost.  Keep checking out the site 
as we do more research on this.

Thanks you for your request to be on the newsletter list.  Please send any suggestions 
or cute pet stories (a new part to the newsletter soon) to me. 

Bye for now,

Dr.  Jan

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