Your Aging Cat

by Stan Beck

“Say Cheese”

from: ragamews.com 

Age 11 seems to be pivotal age for a cat where they move from adult to senior.  Obviously, this is not a hard, set age, but a guideline. 

Ideal Weight

One of the main challenges for a senior cat is maintaining its ideal weight.  There can be excessive weight gain from reduced activity levels, but also weight loss because of a lack of interest in eating, in general. 

 A cat’s sense of taste and smell diminish over time which makes eating less desirable.  In addition, their ability to properly digest their food, absorbing key nutrients also decreases with age, making eating much less efficient.

Know Thy Cat

Cats are truly creatures of habit and a significant deviation in their behavior can be a red flag that something is not right.  Pay attention to changes in their activity levels, weight changes, grooming and elimination patterns.  If you notice something, have your vet examine your kitty.

Body Chemistry Shift

Good nutrition for an aging cat is very important.  Their body chemistries are changing as they age, so it essential that you feed them food that is formulated for their special needs.  Although there are many aging cat food formulas out their, I recommend that you have at least one consultation with your vet to put together a tailored nutritional plan for you cat’s individual needs. 

Cat Care
Cat Care

Tags: Articles, Cat Health