The older cat, what do you actually feed it?
Cats generally have a longer lifespan than dogs and are also getting older. Which begs the question: what is an
elder cat and what do you actually feed them? At least something they like and that benefits their health. Cats are generally picky when it comes to food. There are even cats that don't like food changes, or want to eat something different every time.
Offered food is less well utilised in older cats
A cat's digestive physiology is complicated. It changes as they get older. In any case, under the influence of hormonal and metabolic changes, the metabolism of older cats changes. Older cats from 10 years of age onwards digest their food more slowly and utilise nutrients less than younger cats. The lower utilisation of the food is also because older cats often chew the food less well. In Senior cats, the quality of the teeth and chewing muscles is somewhat reduced due to wear and tear.
Body changes of ageing
Older cats, like older people, have complaints caused by old age. For instance, they are more likely to suffer from wear and tear of the joints, which causes cats to be less eager to move and jump. Also, elderly cats more often have a decline in kidney function to a greater or lesser extent. When the kidneys have really deteriorated, they are often given a special kidney diet. In addition, they are more susceptible to other diseases, also because their resistance starts to decrease with age. If the cat does not have any extreme physical complaints, it is advisable to give your older cat a special Senior diet that caters for all age-related complaints.
What does a good senior cat food contain?
All cats need protein to function and maintain muscle mass. Digesting protein releases phosphorus, which has a negative effect on the kidneys. That sounds contradictory: need protein, but prefer less phosphorus in food for older cats. When high-quality protein is used in Senior food, less protein is needed overall, so the total phosphorus content also remains lower. Older cats often eat less, but we don't want them to start breaking down their muscle mass to make energy from it. That's why extra carnitine is added alongside the good protein. An amino acid that helps to stimulate fat burning, thus keeping muscles up to par. Older cats can also suffer from ageing in the brain, this process of ageing is inhibited by omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. Fish oil is rich in these essential fatty acids, which is why the concentration of fish oil in food for older cats is high. An added benefit is that these omega fatty acids also have a positive effect on joints. As cats are often difficult eaters, it is obviously very important that the food has good palatability combined with a good smell to stimulate the appetite.
What are examples of good palatable senior foods?
SANIMED Senior Cat
SPECIFIC Senior
When not to feed Senior?
The above suggestions are only suitable for a normal senior cat. If your cat has or is suffering from a particular medical condition, you should consult your vet for the best diet plan to suit her treatment.
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