As your cat enters its golden years, its nutritional needs change. The right cat food can help manage its weight, support aging joints, and keep it feeling its best. But with so many options, it can be challenging to know where to start. Explore some helpful tips for selecting the best meal for your aging companion, plus some nutritious and delicious recommendations.
When Does Your Cat Become a “Senior?”
A cat is usually considered a senior after they reach 10 years of age. But age isn’t the only indication that your cat is getting on in years. Their behavior and physical changes can also signal that they are transitioning to a new stage in their life.
You might notice reduced activity, weight gain or weight loss, dental issues, or cloudiness in their eyes. Regular vet check-ups can help identify when your cat is entering this new life stage and address emerging health conditions like arthritis, kidney disease, or urinary tract disease.
It can also mean that it’s time to discuss their new dietary needs with your vet, like transitioning your cat’s dry food for wet cat food, such as Open Farm’s Chicken & Salmon Rustic Blend Wet Cat Food formulated for senior and adult cats. This mix is easy to chew and contains Ocean Wise® wild-caught Pacific salmon, humanely raised chicken and carrots for beta-carotene and Omega-3’s. These nutrients can boost your senior cat’s cognitive, heart, and kidney health, helping them live a full life.
Special Food Considerations for Senior Cats
Over the years, your cat’s dietary needs change, so it’s essential to feed your cat foods that keep them healthy and active in their later years. These food tips can help you support your senior cat’s joint health, digestion, and cognitive function.
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Dietary adjustments for reduced activity. As cats age, their metabolism slows down, and they might not be as playful as they used to be. To keep them healthy, a calorie-controlled diet can help prevent obesity while providing all the necessary nutrients.
Open Farm offers excellent kibble options for senior cats, like the Catch-of-the-Season Whitefish Dry Cat Food, which comes with feeding guidelines based on your cat’s ideal weight.
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Plenty of protein. Senior cats tend to lose muscle mass over time, but a protein-rich diet can help them stay strong and active. Check out our Surf & Turf Freeze Dried Raw Cat Food for high-quality protein from wild-caught Pacific salmon and 100% Animal Welfare beef and beef liver.
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Joint support. Aging cats can develop joint stiffness or arthritis. Adding foods with collagen, like Open Farm’s Homestead Turkey Bone Broth For Cats, can help support their joint health.
This delicious broth is a collagen-rich kibble topper made from humanely raised turkey bones. It is slow-simmered with healthy ingredients like non-GMO pumpkin, carrot, and turmeric, making it a perfect topper for your cat’s meals.
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Digestibility. Senior cats may develop digestive issues or become sensitive to specific ingredients. Opt for cat food formulas that contain highly digestible ingredients or naturally occuring prebiotics.
This can help your senior kitty absorb nutrients better and feel more comfortable after meals. Look for options like pumpkin, such as our Wild-Caught Salmon & Cod Freeze Dried Raw Cat Food, which is easy on the stomach and supports healthy digestion.
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Essential fatty acids. Your older cat may experience changes in its skin and cognitive decline. Omega-3 and omega-9 fatty acids can help support its brain function and keep its skin healthy.
These beneficial nutrients are found in fish like salmon and coconut oil. Our Herring & Mackerel Rustic Blend Wet Cat Food is an excellent option with oily fish high in omega fatty acids, coconut oil, and sunflower oil to keep your cat’s skin and coat looking its best.
How To Choose the Right Food for Your Senior Cat
Are you trying to find the perfect food for your senior cat? Use the following tips to help you know what to look for—and what to avoid—when picking their daily meals:
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Research the source. Look for brands that prioritize sustainable and ethically sourced pet food ingredients. This ensures minimal environmental impact and high-quality nutrition. At Open Farm, we are committed to only using sustainable, humanely raised, or caught proteins so you can give your senior cat the best nutrition possible.
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Check the ingredient list. Prioritize foods with animal-based proteins listed as the first ingredient, ensuring your cat gets the meat-rich diet they naturally require. In addition to common proteins like turkey or chicken, you can choose lamb, herring, or mackerel as an omega-3-rich option.
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Beware of fillers. Avoid foods that use low-quality fillers like corn, wheat gluten, and meat by-products. These don’t provide optimal nutrition and can lead to digestive issues.
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Consider special dietary needs. Some senior cats might need extra support from specific nutrients, such as antioxidants for a stronger immune system or fatty acids for healthier skin and coat.
If your cat seems to be experiencing issues in these areas, consider foods like the Grass-Fed Beef Rustic Blend, which includes cranberries, for an antioxidant boost. Consulting with your vet can help determine which nutrients are best for your cat’s needs.
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Consult reviews and recommendations. Hearing from other cat owners can be helpful when choosing food for your senior cat. Customer reviews give you an idea of how well cats enjoy a particular food and what health benefits it might offer. At Open Farm, we share customer reviews and star ratings on each product page so you can get valuable feedback before purchasing.
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Consult your veterinarian. Chat with your vet about the best diet for your cat. They can offer personalized advice based on your cat's unique health needs.
Support Your Older Cat’s Health With Optimal Nutrition
Ensuring your cat enjoys a healthy senior life means giving them the right food to support their changing needs. Open Farm offers high-quality, nutritious options tailored for senior cats, with sustainable ingredients and traceable sources you can trust to keep them happy and thriving. Explore our senior cat food selection to find the perfect fit for your feline companion!
This article is meant only as an example meal with fully balanced nutrition, please reach out to our customer experience team if you have any questions about your pet’s own unique circumstances! To ensure these products are a good fit for your dog, we also recommend consulting your dog’s vet about any new supplement or diet changes, especially if there is a medical concern. They should be able to help as you and your vet know your dog’s medical history best!
