Cat Food For Senior Cat Diseases

Some problems associated with aging can be helped with special diets for senior cats. Older cats have an increased risk of some physical conditions and signs of aging. Some food and supplements can help a cat that has one of these conditions. Obesity often affects older cats. If a senior cat is becoming overweight, the cat owner may want to switch to a cat food with fewer calories.

A senior cat may experience decreased kidney or liver function. The veterinarian may suggest a special diet if the senior cat has one of these problems. Diabetes mellitus and hyperthyroidism often occur in senior cats. Hyperthyroidism can increase a senior cat’s appetite. A special diet may be recommended by a veterinarian for a cat with diabetes mellitus or hyperthyroidism.

Arthritis can develop in aging cats. Though arthritis is common in people, arthritis in cats cannot be treated with the same medications. There are medications available to help a cat with arthritis. Glucosamine and chondroitin have been shown to help a senior cat’s arthritis. Besides food or supplements that contain glucosamine and chondroitin, a cat owner who has a senior cat with arthritis can make alterations to the cat’s environment to help alleviate pain and difficulty. Low-sided litterboxes and a cat bed may be beneficial.

Dental disease is common in senior cats. Some foods are designed for dental health. If the cat is showing signs of experiencing dental discomfort or is refusing to eat, they should be seen by a veterinarian. Refusing to eat could be a sign of other serious conditions. A veterinarian can rule out other physical problems and help the cat owner care for the dental disease.

Senior cats may develop gastrointestinal problems. The most common gastrointestinal problem for senior cats is constipation. The constipation can be worsened by the presence of hairballs. A senior cat’s diet should include a sufficient amount of fiber. A veterinarian may recommend cat food for senior cats or cat food to reduce the impact and occurrence of hairballs. Senior cats should be encouraged to drink plenty of water to help fight constipation. If constipation becomes a problem, a veterinarian should be consulted.