Thanks to advancements in nutrition, veterinary medicine, and general cat care knowledge, our feline friends are living longer than ever. In fact, many indoor cats today live to be over 15 years old, considerably longer than a few decades ago. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the number of households with senior cats increased 6% over the past decade, with 16 million U.S. households owning at least one senior cat. If you’re one of these lucky pet parents with a beloved older cat, we want to help you give them the best life possible for as long as possible. Let’s start with determining your cat’s life stage.
Is Your Cat a Senior?
Not long ago, cats were considered seniors by age eight. Today, they live longer, so cats are considered seniors by age 11. Here is the AVMA’s breakdown of cats’ life stages:
Birth – 1 Year: Kitten
1-6 years: Young Adult
7-10 years: Mature Adult
11-14 years: Senior
15+: Geriatric or “Super Senior”
Cats’ bodies change during each of these life stages, requiring a different balance of nutrients. Kittens, for example, have high energy needs, requiring a high-calorie and high-protein diet. After they reach adulthood, their energy needs decrease, which can lead to weight gain without appropriate nutrition. After age 10, their nutritional needs change again.
Senior-Specific Nutrition
Senior cats naturally tend to lose weight and muscle mass. This may be caused by a medical condition, their decreased ability to digest fat and protein, a diminishing sense of taste and smell, or all the above. To help them maintain a healthy weight and muscle mass, senior cats should eat an easily digestible diet that’s high in protein, essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins E and C to support immune system health.
Another common condition in cats as they age is kidney disease. To support their kidney health, make sure they stay adequately hydrated. This means making sure your cat has easy access to clean water, with multiple bowls throughout your house, and include wet food in their diet. Also, ensure that their food contains low levels of phosphorus to help promote healthy kidney function.
Tiki Cat Silver offers optimized nutrition designed just for cats aged 11 and up, with high
protein from real poultry and fish, gentle fiber from pumpkin, optimal omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. It’s available in multiple flavors and textures — including easy-to-eat mousse and mousse + shreds — to excite even the pickiest cat. For geriatric cats who are losing weight, Tiki Cat Silver Comfort Mousse high-calorie supplements can help support energy and weight gain.
Helpful Tips for Your Senior Cat
Continual Enrichment
Enrichment activities provide physical and mental benefits at every age. Stimulate their
predatory instincts by having them hunt for treats or toys. Provide short, gentle playtime with wand toys and opportunities to run and climb. Give them a cozy place by a window so they can enjoy watching the outside world.
Creature Comforts
Speaking of cozy, senior cats crave calm and comfort. They sleep more than younger cats, so make sure they have plenty of warm, soft places to rest and sleep. Older cats also take comfort in familiarity. Keep them on a predictable routine and limit stress as much as possible.
Regular Check-Ups
Senior cats should see a veterinarian at least twice a year. It’s also important to give your cat regular check-ups at home. Feel their ribs and check their waist to make sure they’re
maintaining a healthy body condition. If you notice any changes in their behavior or physical appearance, consult your veterinarian right away.
Caring for our senior cats’ health and happiness can be simple, yet so meaningful. With a few thoughtful changes in their nutrition and care, we can help ensure they stay with us, snuggled in our laps, for even more cherished moments.