Foods to help keep your older cat fit and active

As cats grow older their nutritional needs change. That’s why it is worth considering diets designed specifically for the needs of older cats.  Your cat will spend around 40% - 50% of their life as a senior so it’s worth getting those years right.

When is a cat senior?

There is no exact definition and it will vary from cat to cat but from about 8 cats are generally classed as mature or senior and then definitely senior from 11 years. 

There are signs that can help you tell if your cat is showing signs of ageing

• They may be less active - hunting, playing and grooming less
• They may spend less time outdoors
• They may be sleeping for longer and in different places
• A reduced appetite is quite common and they become much fussier about food
• Increased thirst or urination
• There may be inappropriate urination, in the house
• Changes in sociability, possibly becoming more aggressive and more insecure
• As they get older weight loss can be a problem for cats
• You may be seeing a deterioration in their coat condition

As cats age they have a reduced ability to smell and taste food, they are less able to digest fats and proteins; heart kidney and liver work less efficiently and joints stiffen.

Diets for senior cats are designed to provide nutrients that allow for these changes and will

• Help maintain an ideal bodyweight
• Use highly digestible and highly palatable ingredients
• Provide support for ageing joints
• Reduce workload on the kidneys and support healthy heart function 

Schedule a senior health check-up

A senior health check-up with your vet will allow them to spot any possible problems nice and early, making it much easier to deal with them.