Hydration and Nutrition in Senior Pets: What Owners Often Overlook
- Dr. Emma Clark
- Nov 10
- 4 min read
As pets age, their dietary needs change - but these shifts often go unnoticed until a problem arises. Many senior pets quietly struggle with dehydration, reduced appetite, or difficulty chewing, even when they’re being fed the same food they’ve always eaten. And while weight gain is often a concern earlier in life, unintentional weight loss and muscle wasting are far more common in later years.
This guide highlights the often-overlooked aspects of hydration and nutrition in senior pets, and provides practical strategies to help your ageing dog or cat stay well-fed, well-hydrated, and healthy for as long as possible.
Contents
Why Nutrition Needs Change with Age
Senior pets often experience changes in metabolism, muscle mass, dental health, and organ function. These all affect how they process food and how much nutrition they actually absorb.
Older pets may need:
Fewer calories, if they’re less active
More high-quality protein, to preserve muscle mass
Increased hydration, especially if they have kidney disease
Easier-to-digest ingredients and added supplements
Gentler textures, particularly if teeth or jaw mobility are an issue
Simply sticking with the same diet they had in mid-life might not be enough. Ageing pets benefit most from diets tailored to their specific life stage and health profile.
Signs Your Pet May Be Under-Hydrated or Malnourished
Because pets can’t tell us they’re thirsty or unwell, you’ll need to watch for subtle signs. These may include:
Weight loss or visible muscle thinning
Dull coat, flaky skin, or poor grooming habits
Increased thirst and urination (or, in some cases, decreased)
Constipation or dry stools
Lethargy or disinterest in food
Bad breath or signs of dental pain
In cats, especially, chronic dehydration is a common and under-recognised issue—one that’s often linked to declining kidney function.
Food Texture and Feeding Challenges
One of the biggest overlooked issues in older pets is difficulty chewing or swallowing.
This can be caused by:
Dental disease or missing teeth
Jaw stiffness or arthritis
Reduced appetite or nausea
Cognitive decline, affecting eating routines
If your pet is reluctant to eat or seems to chew awkwardly, consider:
Switching to wet food or adding warm water to soften dry kibble
Offering smaller, more frequent meals
Warming food slightly to release aroma and encourage appetite
Using flatter bowls or raised feeders for comfort
Always rule out dental pain if your pet’s eating habits have changed suddenly.
Encouraging Water Intake
Dehydration can sneak up on older pets, especially if their thirst response is reduced or they’re on medications that increase fluid loss.
To encourage better hydration:
Provide multiple water bowls in easy-to-access locations
Offer water in different forms—some pets prefer moving water from fountains
Add water or broth to meals (low-sodium and pet-safe only)
Try wet food if your pet is reluctant to drink
Use shallow bowls for flat-faced breeds or pets with arthritis
Cats in particular are known for low thirst drives, so hydration must often be encouraged through diet.
Feeding Strategies for Senior Pets
Every older pet is different, but these general strategies can help:
Feed smaller meals more often, especially if appetite is reduced
Avoid free-feeding, which can hide appetite changes
Monitor weight weekly, especially in pets with known health conditions
Use food puzzles or slow feeders to engage pets mentally as well
Consider prescription or senior-formulated diets for specific needs (e.g. kidney support, weight control, or cognitive support)
Talk to your vet before making major dietary changes, especially if your pet has diabetes, kidney disease, or food sensitivities.
When to Speak to Your Vet
It’s time for a check-up if your senior pet:
Has lost weight without explanation
Is drinking noticeably more or less than usual
Has bad breath, drools, or avoids eating
Is vomiting, has diarrhoea, or seems nauseous
Has suddenly changed their food preferences
Seems generally “off” or low in energy
Your vet may recommend blood tests, urinalysis, or dental checks to find the cause—and can advise whether your pet needs a dietary adjustment or supportive treatment.
Supporting your senior pet’s hydration and nutrition doesn’t have to be complicated—but it does need to be intentional. With small adjustments and regular veterinary guidance, you can help your pet stay stronger, happier, and more comfortable through their golden years.
FAQs
Do older pets need special food?
Often, yes. Senior pet diets are formulated to support joint health, digestion, organ function, and weight management. Your vet can help you choose the right one.
My pet is drinking more than usual. Is that a good thing?
Not necessarily. Increased thirst can be a sign of kidney disease, diabetes, or other health issues. It's best to mention this change to your vet.
Should I switch from dry to wet food?
Wet food can help with hydration and is often easier to chew. If your pet prefers dry food, you can try soaking it or offering both types in rotation.
Can poor nutrition affect my pet’s behaviour?
Yes. Hunger, dehydration, or nutrient deficiencies can contribute to lethargy, restlessness, or even confusion in senior pets.
How can I tell if my pet is getting enough water?
Monitor urine output, hydration levels (skin elasticity), and energy levels. Offering a water-rich diet and tracking drinking habits can help prevent problems.
