Your senior cat may not jump as high as it used to,but it's still full of love,curiosity,and the ability to chase feathers.Of course,you'd want to make sure it gets the nutrition it needs at this stage of its life so it can stay happy and healthy for years to come.

The Cornell Feline Health Center notes that cats typically live between 7 and 10 years old.In fact,a 10-year-old cat is equivalent to a 53-year-old person.Of course,we would never say 10 is old—far from it!But their health needs do change,especially regarding diet and exercise.

“Feeding senior cats is a particularly interesting topic,”says Dr.Tarina L.Anthony,a senior feline specialist and owner and medical director of the Aurora Cat Hospital&Hotel in Aurora,Colorado.

“In the past,veterinarians often recommended low-protein diets for senior cats,especially since they are more prone to kidney dysfunction,and low-protein diets are often used to treat kidney disease,”she says."However,recent research suggests that older cats may require more protein due to age-related muscle loss.In fact,their protein needs may be comparable to those of kittens!"

How to Choose the Best Food for Your Senior Cat

Anthony recommends consulting your veterinarian before changing your senior cat's diet to understand any potential health issues.The cat's physical condition,gastrointestinal health,and other complications should all be assessed by a veterinarian first.

She points out that you can narrow down your choices to find the best cat food for your senior cat by looking for the following information on the label:

Ingredients listed by weight.

The main ingredients are concentrated in the first three or four ingredients.

In canned cat food,meat should be listed as the first or second ingredient(after water);in dry food,meat should be listed as one of the top three ingredients.

Pet food should meet the standards set by the American Association of Feed Control Officials(AAFCO).The label will state"Animal feeding tested using AAFCO procedures"or"Formulation meets standards."

Since your veterinarian is familiar with your senior cat's specific health condition,they may offer suggestions beyond the brands mentioned above,so it's best to consult your veterinarian first.Here are some options to consider:

Best Dry Cat Food

Grain-Free Senior Cat Food

This senior cat food's primary ingredient is deboned chicken,fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health;it's also rich in vitamins,minerals,and fiber from fruits and vegetables to help boost immunity,promote digestion,and metabolism.However,since cats need to get most of their moisture from their food,adding water to the dry food is crucial!

Best Wet Food for Senior Cats

Grain-Free Natural Meat Grain Wet Cat Food-Beef,Tuna,and Chicken Mix

This wet food for senior cats is easy to chew,rich in protein and non-GMO ingredients,and includes chicken broth to help cats retain moisture.Nutrients such as zinc,taurine,vitamins E and D3,and manganese help maintain a variety of your cat's health needs.

Best Canned Food for Senior Cats

Canned Senior Cat Food

If your cat is a picky eater,this canned food is one of the best options to entice your senior cat back to its food bowl.Made with premium beef,chicken,and tuna,this cat food boasts a delicate texture and delicious flavor,while being rich in antioxidants,vitamins,and minerals to help maintain your cat's health.

Best Dental Care Cat Food

Scientific Senior Cat Food

This clinically proven formula effectively reduces plaque and tartar,helping to clean teeth.It even freshens breath!Nutritionally,it's top-notch—delicious chicken protein combined with multiple vitamins and antioxidants helps boost muscle mass and immunity.

Most Affordable Senior Cat Food

Premium Care Cat Food

This cat food is specially formulated for cats 7 years and older.It contains real chicken,Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids,probiotics,vitamins A and E,and taurine to help promote digestive health,improve vision,and enhance muscle mass.Nutritious and affordable.

Best Senior Cat Treats

Anthony says cats don't always chew treats before swallowing,so those that remove and prevent tartar might not be as effective.Make sure to have your cat's teeth checked regularly,and leave treats for special occasions!

Best Human Foods to Feed a Senior Cat

these human foods cats sometimes eat

It's always a special bonding time with your mature kitty to fix a meal that he enjoys,but you have to be mindful about portions and his special nutritional needs.Talk with your vet about these human foods cats sometimes eat,and whether they're appropriate for your senior cat.

A few people foods that are safe for senior cats to eat(assuming your cat is healthy and doesn't have any dietary health conditions like diabetes or hyperthyroidism)include apples(only the flesh—not the stems,leaves or seeds!);bananas(sans-peel);rinsed,de-stemmed blueberries;cooked eggs;and fully baked bread.Though,not all of these human foods are necessarily nutritious for your cat,so consult your vet before adding any of these foods to your cat's diet.Also,be sure to never feed your cat chocolate or grapes,as these can be toxic!