Is your cat slowing down or showing signs of discomfort as they age? These changes are natural, but with the right senior cat care, you can keep them happy and active. From better nutrition to regular vet visits, small steps make a big difference. Let’s explore how to make their senior years truly golden.
The Right Nutrition for Senior Cat Care
As cats age, their dietary needs change to support slower metabolisms and maintain overall health. Here’s how to ensure your senior cat stays happy and healthy through nutrition.
Nutrition Must-Haves
- Calorie Control:
Older cats are less active and lose muscle mass over time, which lowers their metabolic rate. Managing calorie intake helps prevent weight gain and related health issues. - Balancing Protein:
Protein is essential to maintaining muscle mass and overall strength. Cats need over 50% of their calories from protein, but for those with kidney disease, it’s important to focus on restricted or high-quality protein. Regular blood screenings can help guide these adjustments. - Vital Nutrients:
- Taurine: Vital for heart and eye health.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reduce inflammation and support joint health.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Calcium and vitamin D are crucial for strong bones and immunity.
The best way to feed your senior cat:
- The Easy Option:
Opt for a premium commercial diet formulated for senior cats and rotate between trusted brands. Since pet food standards can vary, rotating brands ensures your cat gets a variety of nutrients.
Add safe whole foods like baked lean meats (chicken or tuna) for an extra nutritional boost. For cats with big appetites, try grated zucchini—it helps them feel full without the calories! - Crafting a Balanced Diet:
Transitioning to a home-cooked diet can provide excellent nutrition but comes with the risk of malnutrition if not done correctly. Be cautious with recipes from social media and always consult a vet passionate about cat nutrition. They’ll help craft a balanced whole-food plan for your cat.
Supporting Mobility and Healthy Weight
Weight management for cats is crucial for their well-being. Extra weight increases the risk of arthritis, diabetes, and cancers, leading to pain and complications.
Did you know? A lifetime study in dogs found even a small weight gain reduced lifespan by 15%. The same applies to cats, making weight control vital as they age.
Keep them active with preventative care for cats:
- Manage Portions: Regularly weigh your cat and measure their food accurately. Avoid estimating with vague measures like “a scoop” or “a handful.”
- Switch Between Premium Foods: Choose high-quality commercial diets designed for senior cats and switch brands periodically to cover all nutritional bases.
- Keep Your Cat Moving: Dedicate 10–15 minutes daily to interactive play using feather wands, laser pointers, or climbing toys to keep their joints moving.
- Track Weight: Use baby scales to track any changes in weight. After each session, reward them with a healthy, low-calorie treat.
- Limit Treats: Ensure treats make up less than 10% of their daily calorie intake, focusing on low-calorie options.
Early Prevention, Lifelong Protection
Did you know cats age much faster than humans? Even one year can make a big difference, which is why regular vet care is so important.
At Lilydale Vet Centre, we recommend biannual check-ups and offer complimentary blood screenings with vaccinations for cats aged 7+. These screenings catch hidden conditions early, like kidney disease or diabetes.
Prioritising your cat’s health starts with one simple action. Book their vaccinations and free blood screening–it’s the care they deserve!