What type of dietary shift would older animals typically require?

Older animals typically require more maintenance nutrients as their metabolism changes with age. As animals grow older, their body functions and energy levels often decline, leading to a need for a diet that supports maintenance rather than growth or high activity levels. Maintenance nutrients are essential for sustaining basic bodily functions, including maintaining muscle mass, supporting immune health, and ensuring overall well-being.

While it may seem beneficial to increase protein and energy intake for older animals, their reduced activity levels often mean that a lower energy diet is preferable. Less fiber may not be suitable since older animals often benefit from high-quality fiber to maintain digestive health. Moreover, higher carbohydrate intake does not address the specific nutritional needs that arise with aging, such as the support needed for maintaining muscle mass and overall health.

Thus, focusing on maintenance nutrients is crucial for older animals to accommodate their changing energy needs and to promote longevity and quality of life.