What should I feed my senior cat?
Quick answer
There is no single "senior" diet that fits every older cat; the right food depends on your cat's health, so a veterinary diagnosis comes first.
The full answer
A healthy senior cat does best on a complete and balanced commercial diet with high-quality animal protein, moderate phosphorus, and plenty of moisture. Wet food is usually the better choice because cats have a weak thirst drive and wet food adds water, which supports kidney and urinary health.
If your cat has a diagnosed condition, the diet changes. Chronic kidney disease calls for a prescription diet that is restricted in phosphorus and controlled in protein, and starting it early improves outcomes. Hyperthyroidism is managed with medication, radioactive iodine, or a prescription low-iodine diet. Diabetes responds best to a high-protein, low-carbohydrate canned diet paired with insulin, and some cats go into remission on this approach. Arthritis and cognitive decline may benefit from diets enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and medium-chain triglycerides.
Practical feeding tips for older cats: warm wet food slightly to boost aroma, since a senior cat's sense of smell declines; offer small, frequent meals if your cat eats less at once; and transition to any new food gradually over seven to ten days to avoid stomach upset. Weigh your cat monthly and adjust portions with your vet. Never restrict protein in an older cat without medical guidance, because seniors lose muscle quickly.