Here’s what they recommend for each nutrient:
- Proteins and Amino Acids: Because cats are carnivorous animals, they should derive most of their protein from meat, fish and other animal products. ...
- Fats and Fatty Acids: Dietary fats are also a must for cats. ...
- Carbohydrates and Fiber: Carbs, such as cereals, legumes and other plant foods, aren’t essential in a cat’s diet, but they do provide an abundant source of energy, which they use ...
- Vitamins: Vitamins in your cat’s food include vitamin A, D, E, K, B1, B6, B12, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid and folic acid. ...
- Minerals: Cats require 12 minerals in their diets, too: calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium, chlorine, iron, copper, zinc, manganese, selenium and iodine. ...
- Water: Though they have a weak thirst drive, cats also require free access to fresh, clean water, according to the NRC. ...
What foods should you not feed your cat?
- Onions, Garlic, and Chives: No matter how it's cooked, prepared, or processed, onions break down the red blood cells, which can lead to anemia. ...
- Raw Eggs: Giving your cat raw eggs is potentially offering Salmonella or E. ...
- Raw Meat and Fish: Raw meat and raw fish, like raw eggs, can contain bacteria that cause food poisoning. ...
What can you feed your cats Besides cat food?
What Is A Good Substitute For Cat Food?
- Oily Fish. Truthfully, all fish is safe to feed to your cat. ...
- Meat. Beef, poultry, and any other fresh meat are good for cats to eat. ...
- Cheese. If you want to share a slice of cheese with your cat, that is fine. ...
- Berries. ...
- Melon. ...
- Carrots. ...
- Rice. ...
- Oats. ...
- Eggs. ...
- Spinach. ...
What can you give cats Besides cat food?
Whole Grains
- Brown Rice. Cooked brown rice is okay to offer to your cat if it is plain. ...
- Barley. Barley is a great digestive grain for cats and the greens can be offered in sprouts to help aid your cat's digestion.
- Corn. Corn is often used in pet food and is okay when cooked and ground. ...
- Millet. ...
- Oatmeal. ...
- Wheat. ...
What cats should not eat?
Twenty Foods Your Cat Should Never Eat
- Alcohol. Alcohol is one such food cats should not eat. ...
- Chocolate. Chocolates can be very deadly for cats. ...
- Dog Food. A few bites or bits of dog food will not harm your cat’s health. ...
- Cow’s Milk. ...
- Avocados. ...
- Onions and Garlic. ...
- Raisins and Grapes. ...
- Macadamia Nuts. ...
- Raw Eggs. ...
- Tuna. ...
What is the most important nutrient for cats?
Why is portion feeding important for cats?
When is a cat considered to be senior or geriatric?
How old are cats considered senior?
How to keep cats from drinking water?
Why is it important to monitor your cat's body condition?
How old do cats live?
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About this website
Do older cats need special food?
Most senior cat diets are formulated with appropriate nutrient limits and are less calorie-dense (fewer calories per cup/can) than rations for kittens and young adults; however, there are currently no established specific nutrient requirements.
Should senior cats eat dry food?
Dry food may also be hard for older cats to eat if they have dental issues, like missing or sensitive teeth. It's best to feed senior cats dry food as a treat only or not at all if they have tooth problems.
Is Wet food better for senior cats?
Wet food is easier for many senior cats to manage, and the increased moisture content is important for digestion and kidney health as well. If your cat insists on dry food, try using moisture-rich wet food as a topper.
How much should you feed a mature cat?
When feeding the adult indoor cat we recommend 1/4 of an eight ounce cup of dry cat food each day fed with 2.5 ounces of canned food (about 1/2 of a normal can of cat food).
What is the healthiest cat food for older cats?
Best Dry Senior Cat Food: Wellness Complete Health Senior Cat Food - Natural, Grain Free, Chicken. Best Wet Senior Cat Food: NUTRO Grain Free Natural Wet Cat Food Cuts in Gravy. Best Canned Senior Cat Food: Fancy Feast Senior Classic Pate Cat Food.
Is canned tuna good for cats?
Some tuna now and then probably won't hurt. But a steady diet of tuna prepared for humans can lead to malnutrition because it won't have all the nutrients a cat needs. And, too much tuna can cause mercury poisoning.
What is the average life expectancy of an indoor cat?
about 10 to 15 years oldOn average, indoor cats live to be about 10 to 15 years old, but can reach ages of up to 20 years old.
Are eggs good for cats?
Yes, cats can eat eggs. Fully cooked eggs are a great nutritional treat for cats. Eggs are packed with nutrients, like amino acids, which are the building blocks to protein, and they're also highly digestible. Scrambled, boiled, however you choose to prepare them is fine.
What age is considered a senior cat?
11 yearsIn recent years, feline ages and life-stages have been redefined, cats are considered to be elderly once they reach 11 years with senior cats defined as those aged between 11-14 years and super-senior cats 15 years and upwards.
Can cats live on dry food only?
"Dry food is fine as long as it is complete and balanced," says Dr. Kallfelz. Dry food may be less expensive than canned cat food and may stay fresher longer. Cats that eat only dry food need to be provided with lots of fresh water, especially if they are prone to developing urinary tract blockages.
Should you feed your cat wet food everyday?
Feeding your cat wet food every day in addition to dry food ensures that your cat receives plenty of fluids. This is because fresh animal-based food naturally contains lots of water, which is also a key part of the jelly that binds the pieces together.
Is it OK to feed cats once a day?
While kittens should be fed up to three times a day, once a cat becomes an adult (at about one year of age) feeding once or twice a day is just fine, says the Cornell Feline Health Center. In fact, feeding just once a day should be acceptable for the majority of cats.
Can cats live on dry food only?
"Dry food is fine as long as it is complete and balanced," says Dr. Kallfelz. Dry food may be less expensive than canned cat food and may stay fresher longer. Cats that eat only dry food need to be provided with lots of fresh water, especially if they are prone to developing urinary tract blockages.
At what age should you feed your cat senior food?
Age Transitions Choosing the best cat food for their life stage helps ensure they're getting the nutrients and calories they need. You should be transitioning your kitten to an adult cat food around year one, and your adult cat to a senior or mature adult food around age seven.
How much should a 14 year old cat eat?
Most senior cats will have about the same caloric needs as an adult cat—roughly 280 to 360 daily calories depending on the normal lean weight—as long as they are healthy. Some older cats will actually have an increase in energy requirements.
Best Senior Cat Food: 2022 Buyer’s Guide & Reviews
This Nutro dry cat food is great for senior cats, especially senior kitties who live indoors all the time. It's been fortified with essential fatty acids and nutrients like taurine, as well as healthy antioxidants for a strong immune system. Pros: high protein content, antioxidant and vitamin rich, made with non-GMO ingredients; Cons: contains brown rice (a potential high carb source that ...
What to feed a senior cat?
Hofve advises that “all cats, at all life stages, need good quality protein and lots of it. Many health conditions, including urinary tract problems, obesity and diabetes, can be prevented by feeding a high-moisture, high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet for the cat’s lifetime. This becomes even more important with age, when cats’ ability to digest and assimilate food declines.”
What is the best food for cats?
Do some research, don’t only depend on a manufacturer’s claim as proof that the food is high quality. She suggests that meat, poultry and eggs are best for cats. Surprising to me, she’s not a fan of feeding cats fish because she is concerned that so much of it is farm raised, and if there is poor quality feed in heavily polluted pens. And she’s concerned that even wholesome wild-caught fish may cause urinary problems for some cats.
When should you start worrying about what to feed a senior cat?
A fat overweight cat showing off his belly. Photography ©sdominick | Getty Images.
Why is it important to keep cats lean?
“Keeping lean throughout life should extend both the quality and quantity of life in cats who join human’s lives for already too little time. In older cats, weight can be a growing concern as the cumulative impact of feeding excessive calories over many years can literally add up,” Dr. Delaney says. Weight management is important for senior and geriatric cats, but that doesn’t just mean ensuring cats don’t become overweight. Dr. Hofve reminds us that cats can lose weight quickly and that it also can be medically concerning.
How to help a cat lose weight?
“A proper high-protein, high-moisture diet fed in discrete meals (rather than a bowl of dry food available 24/7) will limit excess weight gain in the first place. It can also be used to reduce weight in adult cats,” Dr. Hofve cautions.
What is cat food?
Cat food is food for consumption by cats. Cats have specific requirements for their dietary nutrients.
How old are senior cats?
Senior cats are defined as those who are 11 years old to 14 years old , and geriatric cats are those who are 15 years old and older.
What to feed a senior cat?
What to Feed Senior Cats. Depending on your veterinarian’s individual recommendations, you might want to consider a diet especially designed for senior cats. This specialized senior cat food tends to be energy dense and highly digestible to compensate for an older cat’s slower metabolism. Look for increased levels of antioxidants to slow down aging.
How to get older cats to eat?
If you can’t find a medical reason why your older cat is losing weight, work on ways to encourage them to eat more. Try warming up their food. That will increase the odors that attract cats to eat. An older cat who can’t smell very well anymore is often unlikely to eat. Add “smelly” things like tuna juice to their food, or consider trying a different flavor of their favorite foods. There are also medical appetite stimulants your veterinarian can try, but if you can get your cat to eat on their own, that is even better.
Why does my cat lose weight?
Assuming you have the calorie count correct for your cat’s normal weight, what are problems that might contribute to an older cat losing weight? Dental problems are high on the list of minor-but-potentially-serious health issues that may lead to a loss of appetite in your cat. Just think about how much a toothache hurts you—one will hurt your cat just as much! Broken teeth, cavities and severe gingivitis are all dental problems that can stop a cat from eating the nutrients they need. Be sure to have your cat’s mouth thoroughly evaluated on their twice-annual checkups. They may need a full veterinary dental workup and cleaning.
How many calories should a senior cat eat?
Most senior cats will have about the same caloric needs as an adult cat—roughly 280 to 360 daily calories depending on the normal lean weight —as long as they are healthy. Some older cats will actually have an increase in energy requirements. That increase may be due to a decrease in the ability to digest and utilize calories or it may be due to health problems that are commonly seen in senior cats.
Why is it important for cats to have fresh water?
Feline kidney disease can be a silent killer that creeps up on an older cat. Drinking and flushing out toxins helps to keep kidney problems at bay.
How old do cats have to be to be considered a senior?
Most cats are considered seniors by the time they reach 10 or 11 years of age. Still, many cats now live to 20 or more. Why the longer lifespan? Improved veterinary care and specialized nutrition —which, for some older felines, may mean making the switch to senior cat food.
How to calculate how much food to feed a senior cat?
Use your cat’s food label to calculate how much you need to feed your senior cat to meet their caloric requirement. Most cat food has calorie counts on the packaging. Initially, it’s best if you weigh out the daily meals. That will help you feed precise amounts.
What fatty acids are good for cats?
Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Most older cats suffer from some degree of arthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids are thought to be beneficial in the treatment of arthritis by reducing inflammation and the activity of enzymes that break down joint cartilage.
How old can a cat be to digest fat?
Moderate to High Fat Levels. Around the age of 11 or 12, a cat’s ability to digest fat starts to decline. Fats contain more calories per gram than either proteins or carbohydrates do, so this can have a major effect on an older cat’s ability to extract calories (energy) from food. Diets for older cats should contain a moderate to high level of fat, ...
Why is my cat's food low in phosphorus?
High blood-phosphorous levels can leach calcium from the bones, make cats feel unwell, lead to more kidney damage and cause other problems within the body. For these reasons, senior cat foods generally contain reduced levels of phosphorus. High-quality protein sources contain less phosphorous than do those of low quality.
Why is muscle loss so bad for cats?
The loss of muscle mass is especially concerning because these individuals are at increased risk of illness and death. Studies reveal that 15% of cats over the age of 12 have a body condition below the ideal, and cats who are over 14 years of age are 15 times more likely to be skinnier than they should be. Senior cat food must contain enough ...
What does it mean when a cat is older?
Jennifer Coates, DVM. Digestive, physiology and nutritional needs change as cats gets older, which means that what they ate when they were younger may no longer be ideal. And with our cats living longer than ever, finding the best nutritionally formulated food ...
How do experienced vets answer your pet questions?
Experienced vets answer all your pet questions via chat or video.
Can cats become finicky?
Cats can become extremely finicky as they get older, so I consider it a great success if we can get them to eat a nutritious diet. If we’re talking about cats who are truly nearing the end of their lives, I think the ideal food for them to eat is whatever they will actually eat.
What is the best food for cats?
The cat food includes chicken by-product, whole ground corn, corn gluten meal, animal fat, soybean meal and whole wheat along with carrageenan as well as celery and rosemary extracts. It also contains several minerals and vitamin supplements. The cat food must be given along with fresh drinking water.
What is the best cat food for seniors?
The Blue Buffalo dry cat food for seniors contains high-quality protein sourced from real chicken as its primary ingredient for the cat’s strong muscles. The natural cat food also includes garden vegetables and fruits as well as wholegrain.
What is Royal Canin cat food?
The Royal Canin cat food is mainly intended for cats that are over 12 years old. This cat food has a perfect ratio of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. It has thin slices of chicken, chicken liver and pork soaked in a thick gravy. The food satisfies the appetite of even very picky felines.
What to look for in senior cat food?
1) The ingredients in the food must be easily digestible. 2) The food must have taurine as much as possible. This ingredient is very important to ensure the best health for your feline’s heart.
What is Purina Pro Plan cat food?
The Purina Pro Plan wet cat food has been prepared keeping your senior feline in mind with protein as its core ingredient. The cat food encompasses an easily digestible formula and optimum fat levels. Apart from protein, the food contents include crude fiber, crude fat and several vitamin supplements.
What is in cat food?
Apart from protein, the food contents include crude fiber, crude fat and several vitamin supplements. The cat food offers extra care and nutrition for your cat to have an active and healthy life with 25 minerals and vitamins apart from taurine and guar gum in each serving.
Does a cat's diet include soy?
It does not include any form of artificial preservatives or flavors, soy, corn, wheat or poultry by-products. The mix of proteins and carbohydrates give the cat the required energy to stay active.
What is the best food for a cat?
Proteins and Amino Acids: Because cats are carnivorous animals, they should derive most of their protein from meat, fish and other animal products. Dietary protein contains 10 specific amino acids, including arginine and taurine, all of which cats require but can’t make on their own. The NRC recommends an adult cat’s diet contain at least 12.5 grams of crude protein (for an adult cat weighing 9 pounds and consuming 250 calories).
What to feed a senior cat that has been neutered?
It’s made with protein-rich chicken, along with corn, wheat, pea fiber and beet pulp, along with a healthy blend of vitamins, minerals and amino acids. The recipe includes antioxidants like green tea, marigold and rosemary extract, too, for a healthy immune system. Adapted phosphorous levels also help to support renal function.
What Is “Senior” Cat Food?
Because AAFCO’s nutrient profiles don’t distinguish between “adult” and “senior,” it turns out that senior diets are not all that different from everyday adult cat food, says Joseph Bartges, DVM, Ph.D., DACVIM, DACVN, a professor of medicine and nutrition in the department of small animal medicine and surgery at the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine in Athens, Georgia.
What is a wet cat diet?
Formulated especially for older senior cats 12 years old and up , this wet diet is designed to provide a balance of protein, fat and carbohydrates. It contains a blend of healthy fats and glucosamine to support joint health, along with vitamins and minerals, antioxidants and reduced phosphorous to help support kidney health. The chunky slices in gravy make it easier for older cats with sensitive teeth and gums to eat. Serve it mixed with crunchy kibble or serve it alone.
What to do if your cat is having trouble remembering things?
If your senior cat is having trouble remembering things—such as where their litter box is, how to eat or drink or how to play with their favorite interactive toy— or displaying senile-like behaviors like staring into space, altered sleep/wake cycles, meowing loudly (especially at night), or spatial disorientation, you could choose a diet with antioxidants and healthy fats.
Why is my cat losing muscle?
Bartges says. “Sometimes [losing muscle mass] is due to disease such as chronic kidney disease, hyperthyroidism or diabetes mellitus. Sometimes it is due to diet if the diet was changed to a lower protein diet.
What is the best wet food for senior cats?
On the hunt for the best wet food for senior cats? This diet features salmon and tuna in its recipe, along with a blend of vitamins, minerals, healthy omega-3 and omega-6 fats, and fiber-rich chicory root to aid in digestion. The antioxidant-packed meal is designed to support a strong immune system and maintain a lean body mass. Plus, it contains a higher moisture content than dry food, giving your cat the extra water they need.
What is Royal Canin senior cat food?
With their senior cat food, the formula features a macronutrient profile that better fits older cats. It’s also packed with goodies to keep joint health, kidney health, and other common complains in older cats. The tender slices in gravy are perfect for cats who struggle with crunchy stuff due to dental issues. We can’t recommend this cat food enough if your budget stretches to allow it. Royal Canin Aging 12+ Senior Canned review.
Why is fiber important for cats?
Fiber is essential for digestion. As cats age, their digestive systems can struggle to process certain proteins. As a result, they may not be getting all the nutrients their food provides .
Why do cats get tired?
As cats age, they become prone to fatigue and dehydration. This fatigue is partially caused by decreased energy levels , making them far less likely to actively seek out fresh water.
Why is it important to lower fat in senior cats?
Lowering the fat content in a senior cat’s diet reflects their less active lifestyle, helping them to maintain a healthy weight.
What happens to cats as they age?
As cats age, their dietary and nutritional requirements change. Cat owners are becoming more and more aware of this, and as such we’ve seen that more owners than ever before are on the lookout for the best cat foods for older cats.
Is Hill's Chicken good for cats?
Hill’s recently revised their formula to better cater to the needs of older cats, and the response from the community looks to be excellent. Chicken remains the number one ingredient and is coupled with natural sources of vitamins and antioxidants to support your cat in its old age.
Does senior cat food have fiber?
Senior cat food formulas differ significantly from manufacturer to manufacturer, but a common trend is a slight increase in fiber to help aid digestion. You’re also likely to see a reduction in fat content, reflecting their less active lifestyle.
What is the best diet for a cat?
Adult cat diet. Adult cats need a balanced diet for healthy tissues and body systems. A diet of 50-60% protein and 30-50% fat is usually a good balance. If your cat isn’t very active, your vet might suggest different amounts. One of the most important parts of a cat diet is access to plenty of fresh, clean water.
What do cats eat?
Cats are carnivores, which means they eat mostly meat. House cats evolved from hunters who ate high amounts of protein and some fat and carbohydrates. They still need the same type of diet today.
Why can't cats eat milk?
It’s also best not to feed your cat milk because cats can be lactose-intolerant. What to Do if Your Cat Won’t Eat. Sometimes cats can be picky about where they eat and the type of food they enjoy, and they may not eat what you're feeding them. This can be normal behavior, and a few simple changes can help.
What type of food does a cat not like?
Sometimes, though, cats don’t like dry food and don’t digest it very well. Semi-moist food. Semi-moist food is made mostly of meat and meat byproducts with some fillers and preservatives added. This type of food has more moisture and might be tastier to cats.
How to keep a cat from being picky?
Picky eaters. If your cat is picky about eating, try rotating between two or three different foods. This will give a variety of flavors that can keep your cat from becoming a picky eater. Changing the brand occasionally might also help with variety. Make sure to choose one that meets your cat’s nutrition needs.
What happens if my cat stops eating?
Refusing food. If your cat suddenly stops eating, this can be a sign of illness. It’s best to take your cat to the vet to rule out any problems.
How long do kittens need milk?
Cats' dietary needs change with age and health. Kitten diet. Kittens need their mother’s milk from birth until they are 4 weeks old . Once weaning starts, they need high amounts of protein. As kittens grow, the amount of protein they need will steadily drop.
How Much Should I Feed an Older Cat?
Portion sizes for older cats are very much dependent on the size and weight of your older pussycat! All cat foods vary in their calorific content so you need to be very aware of how much you are feeding them and its nutritional value.
What is the best grain free food for cats?
Wholehearted Grain Free Senior (Best Grain Free Food for Older Cats) Wholehearted Grain Free Senior is a dry food that helps cats maintain their health as they grow older. It is recommended for cats aged 7 and up. It is a natural dry food that is grain-free and lists animal protein as the number one ingredient.
What is the best food for cats with tooth problems?
Turkey, potato, and cranberry flavor is appealing to picky eaters. Includes no corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. Small bites are great for cats with tooth or gum problems. Cranberries aid in urinary health as well as their immune system health. Omega fatty acids support healthy coats.
Why are cats lazy?
As cats get older they become far more susceptible to dehydration. This causes fatigue and is largely down to their energy levels being lower as they are less proactive in on-boarding fresh water. Cats are lazy at the best of times!
Why do cats like soft wet food?
Soft wet foods have a couple of core advantages. Firstly, they hold far more moisture than dry foods so assist in the hydration process. Secondly, older cats may suffer from deteriorating teeth so softer foods will be easier for them to feed on.
Is Iams good for older cats?
Not to mention, the kibble helps clean cats’ teeth and removed plaque but isn’ t too crunchy, which is great for older cats with tooth issues. One of the best things about Iams Proactive Health Healthy Senior dry food is that it is very flexible and easy to integrate into any cats’ diet.
Is chicken dry food good for cats?
This dry food is full of protein and has chicken as its first ingredient with no fillers. Being high in protein, this formula provides energy for playtime and keeps your cat’s muscles in tip-top shape. Along with the protein, other elements of this dry food increase your kitty’s overall health.
What is the most important nutrient for cats?
Water is the single most important nutrient for cats of any age. Aging, however, interferes with a cat's sensitivity to thirst which is already low in cats and predisposes them to dehydration.
Why is portion feeding important for cats?
Portion feeding plays an important role in controlling calorie intake and decreasing your cat's chance of becoming overweight or obese. On the other hand, portion feeding also helps you identify a decreased or absent appetite early on, which could signal underlying medical problems.
When is a cat considered to be senior or geriatric?
The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) consider cats between 11-14 years of age to be senior while geriatric cats are 15 years and older.
How old are cats considered senior?
When is a cat considered to be senior or geriatric? The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) consider cats between 11-14 years of age to be senior while geriatric cats are 15 years and older.
How to keep cats from drinking water?
Some cats prefer to drink running water – if your cat prefers water from the tap, invest in a water fountain for them. Clean and freshen water bowls regularly to eliminate built up debris that may deter your cat. Feeding more canned food will also increase water intake.
Why is it important to monitor your cat's body condition?
It is important to closely monitor your cat’s body condition and muscle condition and keep both in a good range as discussed in the handout “Obesity in Cats.”. Maintaining healthy body condition and muscle mass reduces the risk for many diseases including cancer, kidney disease, osteoarthritis, and immune-mediated disease.
How old do cats live?
In fact, 35-40% of cats in North America are at least 7 years of age, and it is not uncommon for cats to live well into their twenties. Better nutrition, safer lifestyles, and improvements to preventive healthcare have contributed to this trend.
