In human health, the relationship between diet and healthy longevity is increasingly studied and discussed, particularly as the global population ages. According to the United Nations’ World Population Prospects report, the number of people over 80 years old will surpass the number of children by 2030. This demographic shift highlights the importance of understanding how to reach later life in good health and with quality of life.
For dogs and cats, the scenario is not much different. The proportion of senior pets is also rising. Estimates suggest that between 20% and 40% of pets are already considered “old,” surpassing 11 years of age, driving changes across the pet food sector. As pets age, they experience metabolic, digestive and immune alterations that directly influence nutritional and energy needs — a key consideration for manufacturers.
According to Danilo Souza, R&D manager at BRF Pet, formulations must be adjusted to meet these new demands. “Investing in proper nutrition for every life stage is highly beneficial. Offering this type of option allows pet owners to remain loyal to the brand they trust, finding suitable foods that accompany their pet throughout its entire life.”
How aging impacts pet nutrition
Nutritional needs differ by species and breed, encompassing specific amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. Taurine, for example, is essential for cats but not for dogs.
As pets grow older, these requirements change. Aging is a natural process involving progressive transformations in the animal’s body. Cats are typically considered senior at around 10 years, though physiological changes may be noticeable from age 8. For dogs, classification varies by size: smaller breeds are senior from about 12 years, while large breeds reach this stage at around 10 years.
Souza notes that reduced basal metabolic rate is one of the main changes in aging pets, lowering their energy requirements for vital functions such as breathing, temperature regulation and organ activity. “This slowdown directly impacts nutritional and energy management, since the body requires fewer calories but still needs adequate levels of essential nutrients.”
Aging also affects body composition, leading to gradual muscle loss and increased fat, which may compromise mobility. Digestive capacity and nutrient absorption decline due to reduced saliva, gastric secretions and pancreatic enzymes, as well as changes in bile salts. “These changes impair protein and fat digestion and are compounded by reduced intestinal villi and colon motility, contributing to constipation and slower transit time,” Souza explains.
The immune system also weakens with age, making pets more vulnerable to infections, while bone and joint issues become more frequent, affecting quality of life. Alterations in gut microbiota, including reduced diversity and bacterial imbalance, further highlight the need for specific nutritional care during this stage.
What to consider in formulations for senior pets
Pet owners are increasingly investing in their animals’ health, and the aging pet population translates into demand for foods tailored to this stage.
According to Diego Tresca, co-founder of A Quinta, a natural pet food company, age-related changes require specific formulation. Diets should include highly digestible proteins, functional fibers for gut health, natural antioxidants for cellular protection, and ingredients that support joint and immune health.
It is also essential to control phosphorus and sodium levels, while reinforcing intake of B vitamins, essential fatty acids and bioavailable minerals.
Souza points to several key aspects in senior pet diets:
- Lower phosphorus concentration: important to preserve kidney function, which tends to decline with age.
- Reduced metabolizable energy: aligned with lower energy needs, supporting weight management.
- Whole grains and fibers: to promote digestive health and better nutrient absorption.
- Intermediate protein levels: enough to maintain muscle mass without overloading metabolism.
- Functional additives: including probiotics, prebiotics, omega-3s, natural antioxidants and organic minerals.
With aging, voluntary food intake often decreases due to sensory changes in smell and taste. Tresca highlights the importance of palatability: “Senior pets often show dental changes or reduced appetite and need foods that are softer, aromatic and attractive, while maintaining nutritional balance.”
For dry diets, kibble size and density should match the pet’s breed size, and depending on dental condition, combinations with wet foods or exclusive wet diets may be recommended.
The role of pet food manufacturers in supporting senior pets
In a pet market increasingly driven by preventive health and longevity, demand for senior-focused products continues to grow, though awareness remains limited.
“For us, investing in a senior-specific line is a priority, because this segment is expanding in Brazil and still lacks information. Many pet owners are unaware that nutritional needs change significantly over a pet’s lifetime,” says Tresca.
Souza adds that the lack of awareness often begins with difficulty recognizing when a pet has entered its senior phase. “It is very common for owners not to know their pet’s exact age, or to fail to associate behavioral and physical changes with aging.”
This creates opportunities for manufacturers investing in targeted formulations. According to Souza, education and guidance are essential, particularly for owners who do not usually consult veterinarians about nutrition.
“One of the most effective strategies is to invest in packaging with clear, accessible communication, highlighting nutritional benefits and the recommended age for introducing the product. Such actions help guide more informed purchasing decisions,” he concludes.
