Senior Cat Food FAQs
When should I switch my cat to senior cat food?
The best time to transition to mature cat food typically depends on your cat's health and dietary needs. Generally, cats are considered mature at around 7 years of age. However, some breeds or individual cats may require a change in diet sooner or later.
Some signs it is the right time are:
- Decreased Activity Levels
- Weight Changes
- Health Conditions: Health conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or dental issues are more common in older cats and might necessitate a change in diet.
- Veterinary Recommendation
What nutrients are important in senior cat food?
To support your ageing feline, look for a senior cat food that’s tailored to their unique needs, focusing on:
- High-quality protein: Protein is crucial for older cats to maintain muscle mass, especially since they may have a harder time digesting it. Ingredients like chicken, turkey, tuna, salmon, or beef are not only tasty but also highly digestible.
- Healthy fats: While some senior cats struggle to digest fats, they still need them for energy and overall health. A balanced diet includes the right level of easily digestible fats.
- Antioxidants: An extra boost of antioxidants can help support your cat’s immune system, which may weaken with age.
- Hydration: Older cats can sometimes forget to drink enough water or lose their sensitivity to thirst. Wet food is a great way to increase their water intake, and placing extra water bowls around your home can encourage them to drink more.
Should senior cats eat wet or dry food?
Senior cats can enjoy either wet or it's complete and balanced. However,
it's generally not the best option, as it can reduce the food’s palatability. Opting for soft, wet food can help your senior cat get the most out of mealtime.
How often should I feed my senior cat?
For most cats, once they reach adulthood at about one year of age, feeding them once or twice a day works well. When it comes to senior cats (10 years or older), they generally maintain the same feeding schedule, unless your vet recommends something different based on their individual health needs.
It’s important to monitor your senior cat’s weight and appetite, as their feeding habits might change with age. Some senior cats may benefit from smaller, more frequent meals to help with digestion or manage weight.
What are the signs my senior cat's diet needs to change?
As cats age, their dietary needs can change, and there are a few signs that it might be time to adjust their diet. Here's what to watch for:
- Coat Condition: A dull or flaky coat can indicate a need for more essential fatty acids. Look for foods rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 to support healthy skin and a shiny coat.
- Lethargy or Weakness: If your senior cat seems unusually tired, consider a diet with added antioxidants to boost their immune system—but always consult your vet if the change is sudden.
- Weight Changes: Whether gaining or losing weight, senior cats often benefit from foods tailored for weight management or reduced calories with added fibre.
- Digestive Issues: Chronic upset stomach, loose stools, or gas might mean your cat needs a sensitive stomach formula or higher-quality food.
- Itchiness or Allergies: If your cat is scratching more, a low-allergen diet may help. Your vet can recommend the best options for their needs.
Are there specific health conditions senior cat food can address?
As our cats grow older, they may experience health changes that could require adjustments to their diet. While senior cat foods are often available without a prescription, it’s always a good idea to check with your vet before making any changes. These specially designed diets can help manage common issues that arise with age and keep your senior cat feeling their best.
Here are some of the key benefits of senior cat food:
- High-quality protein to support muscle maintenance and overall health
- Vitamin E to strengthen their immune system as they age
- Fewer calories to help manage weight as their activity levels decrease
For cats with specific health concerns, your vet may recommend more tailored options, such as:
- Renal diets for managing
- Gastrointestinal diets to help with
- Urinary diets for cats with
ROYAL CANIN® Senior Ageing 12+ Wet Cat Food with Thin Slices in Gravy 85g Pouches£0.002 products in range £16.99 – £59.98
