As your cat ages, you may notice differences in their activity level, skin and coat health, and mobility. Your cat's nutritional needs change as they grow older, too. Choosing a food for senior cats can help you support your furry friend through their golden years and ensure they get the precise balance of nutrients they need to thrive. Here's what you should know about what to feed senior cats and other tips to keep them happy and healthy.

Why Your Older Kitty Needs Food for Senior Cats

Gray Cat Sleeping and Lying on the sofa

Digestive Changes

Your cat is typically considered a senior once they reach 10 years old. At this stage, it can become more difficult for cats to digest food, which can compromise their ability to absorb nutrients. Feeding your cat a complete and balanced food for their life stage can help account for these concerns and ensure they get the essential nutrients they need.

Health Changes

Senior cats are at higher risk of age-related health conditions, including chronic kidney disease, hyperthyroidism and osteoarthritis. Nutrition is a key part of disease management for these and other conditions. If your veterinarian diagnoses your cat with a health condition, they may recommend a food that addresses their specific nutritional requirements. For instance, a cat with chronic kidney disease may require a food with limited protein and targeted vitamins and minerals.

Weight Changes

Senior cats can experience weight gain or loss, so weigh your cat regularly and note any changes. Your veterinarian will also keep an eye on their weight during routine checkups. They can help determine the underlying causes of weight changes and the best treatment, including nutritional requirements.

Weight Gain

Many factors can contribute to weight gain, including overfeeding, decreased metabolism or decreased activity level. Obesity can lead to chronic medical conditions in cats, including diabetes and heart, respiratory, skin and joint issues. If your cat is overweight despite feeding them according to your veterinarian's instructions, your veterinarian may recommend a lower-calorie food to help them regain a healthy body condition.

Weight Loss

On the other hand, senior cats can also be prone to weight loss as their digestive function decreases. In these cases, your veterinarian may suggest a more calorie-rich food.

The veterinarian may also want to test for conditions that lead to weight loss. For example, if your senior cat has a healthy appetite but is still losing weight, your vet may run tests to examine them for thyroid dysfunction, cancer or diabetes. Decreased appetite may be associated with periodontal (gum) disease, gastrointestinal disease, kidney disease or reduced senses of taste or smell. So, consult your veterinarian to determine a diagnosis and the best path to care.

Gray Light Cat feeding Hillspet on a bowl

What to Feed Senior Cats

In general, feeding your senior cat a complete and balanced food for their life stage will provide them with the nutrition they need to live their best life. Foods formulated specifically for senior cats are easily digestible and take their nutritional requirements into account. Senior cat foods may include fiber, antioxidants (like vitamins C and E), fatty acids, prebiotics (which feed the healthy bacteria in your cat's gut) and other key nutrients to support healthy immune function, digestion, and eye, heart, kidney and joint health.

Maintaining Your Senior Cat's Health

Depending on your cat's unique needs and circumstances, your veterinarian may suggest some of the following steps to support them at home:

  • Gradually adjust your cat's caloric intake to match changing physical and environmental conditions (e.g., indoor cats often need fewer calories than cats who spend time outdoors).

  • Measure food portions to help your kitty maintain an ideal body condition score.

  • Track weight changes with a baby or pet scale.

  • Offer toys and feeding puzzles to provide mental stimulation.

  • Adjust your home's environment to support decreased mobility.

  • Groom your cat regularly to support healthy skin and coat.

  • Observe behavior changes and communicate them to your vet.

Feeding your cat a complete and balanced food for their life stage can help extend their years and maintain their quality of life. To best support your cat in their golden years, consult your veterinarian with any concerns, keep regular wellness visits and give them plenty of care, attention and love.

Dr. Laci Schaible Dr. Laci Schaible

Dr. Laci Schaible is a small animal veterinarian, veterinary journalist, and a thought leader in the industry. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Texas A&M University and her Masters in Legal Studies from Wake Forest University.