Cupp, C.J.
2010
Purina Companion Animal Nutrition Summit: Focus on Gerontology

A longitudinal study found that a diet containing supplemental antioxidants, polyunsaturated fatty acids and a prebiotic increased longevity and improved the health of senior cats. Body weight and body composition data from the study were evaluated to assess possible associations of these parameters with longevity. Body weights along with all body composition parameters measured by DEXA were significantly related to survival, confirming the hypothesis that loss of body mass is a risk factor for mortality in aging cats. Cats eating the supplemented diet better maintained body weight and body composition over time. Nutrition can play a role in delaying age-related changes in body weight and body composition in senior cats.