What to feed a cat over 7 years old? WHISKAS® expert answers

Updated: 02/26/2021 13:54:59

Expert: Rudenko Irina Sergeevna

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Pets always require extra care and attention. Loving owners try to choose a diet so that the food is balanced and contains all the useful elements necessary for normal life. In old age, it is necessary to change the diet and switch to food that is specially designed for older cats. With the right diet, you can significantly increase the life expectancy of an animal and make it full and of high quality.

The aging process leads to changes in the functioning of internal organs, and immunity decreases. To alleviate the condition, it is necessary to pay special attention to the composition of the feed. They should not be high in calories or contain components that affect the pancreas, liver and stomach. A formulation is also needed that would not provoke the formation of stones, leading to kidney failure and other irreversible processes. It should support the musculoskeletal system to reduce the unpleasant symptoms of joint diseases.

An adult animal will need additional elements that will add energy and strength for normal life. Based on many years of research, scientists create specialized foods that help cats remain active even after exceeding the threshold of 10 years. From the products on the market, our experts selected 12 that turned out to be the best in all respects. When compiling the list, reviews from breeders and the opinions of veterinarians were taken into account.

Features of the age of cats

All animals are individual, so the aging process is different for everyone. It begins around the time the animal turns seven years old. A person will not be able to notice this process. But, as soon as the animal turns 12 years old, external signs will become noticeable. At this time, the activity of all cells becomes slow, which causes the work of internal organs to slow down. Therefore, the animal behaves more calmly, lies down more and expects special attention from the owner.

Cat age is divided into three groups:

1. Aging animal - from 7 to 10 years;
2. An older cat is considered to be between 11 and 14 years old;
3. Old age begins at 15 years.

Interestingly, they can live up to 20 years. At this age, by human standards, she will be 97 years old. And by the age of ten the animal will reach 56. It is at this time that she acquires all the diseases characteristic of an elderly person.

Signs of aging

As mentioned above, all animals are different. But everyone has similar signs of aging. For example: loss of hearing, appetite, sense of smell, dental disease. All this leads to weight loss.

Over time, an active animal loses flexibility. Skin and fur suffer. She can't lick herself. At the same time, he suffers from pain. They may be caused by osteoarthritis. Almost all cats suffer from this disease.

The sebaceous glands do not work well, causing the coat to turn gray and visually change. The animal is often exposed to various infectious diseases. After all, her immune system reduces its work. My digestive organs suffer from this. Now the animal requires special nutrition that can support its body during aging.

As cats age, their behavior also changes. Their daily routine and sleep are disrupted. Now they do not need contact with the owner. They can spend time in splendid isolation. Sometimes they may meow loudly for no reason at night or during the day.

Age characteristics of older cats

On average, aging in cats begins at 7–8 years. From this age, pets are considered to be elderly, and from 10–12 years old. Of course, these boundaries are conditional and are determined by the pet’s genetics, its lifestyle and nutrition. It will not be possible to avoid age-related changes, but it is possible to slow down their onset or mitigate their manifestations.

As cats age, they become less active and easily gain excess weight.

Age-related characteristics in cats include:

• decreased metabolism - so the cat may become overweight;
• change in the amount of food consumed - it can decrease both due to a decrease in metabolism and due to the presence of chronic diseases (for example, gastritis, colitis) or dental problems; age-related deterioration of the sense of smell also contributes to a decrease in appetite; on the other hand, some owners note that the pet began to ask for food constantly - veterinarians associate this with the deterioration of the cat’s memory, she “forgets” that she has already eaten;
• decreased ability to absorb nutrients from food: from 7–8 years of age, the cat’s body’s absorption of fats decreases, so their content in the diet is reduced; after 11 years, the cat begins to absorb proteins worse, which leads to loss of body weight;
• weakening of intestinal motility - intestinal movements that help move food become less active, and the cat becomes constipated;
• decreased sensitivity to thirst - reducing fluid intake will accelerate the formation of stones in the urinary tract, and will also contribute to a further slowdown of metabolism;
• predisposition to the development of chronic diseases: renal failure;
• heart failure;
• arthrosis;
• chronic diseases of the digestive system: gastritis;
• colitis;
• fatty hepatosis;
• pancreatitis.

Veterinarians recommend monitoring the following signs of aging in pets:

• weight loss;
• decreased activity;
• change in the structure of the coat - it becomes stiffer;
• behavior change;
• loss of appetite;
• the emergence of picky eating.

Video: features of older cats

What requirements should the diet of an elderly pet meet?

The main dietary requirements for an aging cat are:

• the use of high-quality protein for feeding a cat, complete in amino acid composition: for example, a lack of taurine can cause retinal dystrophy in an elderly pet and the development of blindness, as well as loss of muscle mass;
• limiting the content of phosphorus and sodium to improve the function of the urinary and cardiovascular systems;
• the increased content of vitamins, both fat-soluble (especially A and E) and water-soluble group B, helps slow down aging;
• sufficient content of polyunsaturated fatty acids and zinc to maintain good skin and coat condition.

There are different opinions regarding the amount of protein in food for older pets:

• some manufacturers slightly reduce its content, believing that this will reduce the load on the kidneys and protect them;
• others believe that in a healthy aging animal the need for quality protein even increases, and for cats with kidney failure there are veterinary diets, and high-protein diets are reserved for older pets.

It is very important to avoid sudden changes in diet in older cats, as the digestive system's ability to adapt to changes is greatly reduced. It is better to feed an older cat more often in smaller portions. Particular attention should be paid to ensuring that the cat drinks. To do this, carefully monitor the cleanliness of the water in the bowl and use a drinking fountain that is attractive to cats.

A drinking fountain can help encourage your cat to drink enough water; in addition, the water in it is saturated with oxygen

In some cases, meat broths or veterinary drinks, for example, Viyo, are used. This prebiotic drink for older cats is recommended by veterinarians as an effective means of preventing infectious diseases, as well as reducing the risk of digestive disorders and ensuring the most complete absorption of nutrients in aging animals.

Viyo prebiotic drink helps support the immune system of an elderly pet

Video: Viyo drinks

How does food for an elderly cat differ from regular food?

Foods for elderly pets have a number of features:

• the analytical composition has been changed - the fat content and total caloric intake have been reduced, conscientious manufacturers pay special attention to the quality composition of the protein, which helps maintain muscle mass, and the reduction in caloric intake helps to avoid the development of obesity;
• ingredients have increased digestibility; the composition must include dietary fiber that stimulates peristalsis;
• attention is paid to maintaining renal function - the amount of phosphorus is reduced, components are introduced that prevent the formation of stones in the urinary tract, usually these are polyionic complexes that optimize the acidity of urine;
• to support the immune system, feed must include antioxidants and vitamins;
• to improve the function of the musculoskeletal system, chondroprotectors are introduced into the feed, for example, mussel extract, glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate;
• to maintain the function of the cardiovascular system in feed, the sodium content is reduced and enriched with taurine and polyunsaturated fatty acids;
• The size of kibble for older pets is usually smaller, which makes them easier to chew and soak (if necessary).

What can wrong feeding lead to?

Improper feeding of an aging pet can result in a significant reduction in its life expectancy, as well as a decrease in its quality. According to statistics, the most common causes of death for domestic cats are:

• heart failure;
• renal failure;
• oncological diseases.

A balanced diet can reduce the risk of these diseases.

With age, the need for quality meat ingredients in cats only increases.

List of common diseases

Often, minor symptoms of diseases can hide a number of serious illnesses. It is better to know about them in advance. After all, you can not only support the cat, but also help it overcome the disease.

A person can always tell what hurts and where it hurts; cats not only don’t talk about it, but also try to mask their illnesses. For example: people try to hide pain in the body behind a calmer lifestyle. They don’t jump to their favorite place, sleep a lot, and try to pester their owner less. With such signs, the animal should be taken to the veterinarian.

General symptoms:

1. Problems with the digestive system may be hidden behind loss of appetite;
2. Diseases of the genitourinary system are manifested by thirst or frequent urination;
3. Problems with joints and pain when moving are usually manifested by lameness and a sedentary lifestyle;
4. Frequent startling and disorientation can affect feline behavior.

It is important that the older the cat gets, the more often it is worth visiting the veterinarian. The doctor will help recognize diseases and eliminate pain.

Premium class

Food made from high-quality ingredients, well-balanced and enriched with vitamins and minerals. The rating includes premium dry cat food.

GO! Sensitivity + Shine grain-free, for sensitive digestion, with duck

pros

• quality sources of protein and fat
• balanced composition

Minuses

• contains phosphoric acid

From 1461 ₽

One of the best food for cats, optimal for animals that are not suitable for grain-containing food and have problems with the digestive system. Protein sources are duck meat and egg powder. Plant components – legumes. The composition includes microorganisms - probiotics and a prebiotic - chicory root, which facilitates digestion. The diet includes a complex of vitamins and minerals that have a beneficial effect on the health of cats.

Royal Canin Hepatic for liver problems

pros

• dietary composition
• helps with liver diseases

Minuses

• Not all cats like the taste

From 1680 ₽

For nutrition in liver diseases. The course of treatment is from six months. The food satisfies the physiological needs of a cat with liver pathology and provides the necessary energy. Contains an optimal level of easily digestible animal (pork) and plant proteins. The content of microelements (copper, zinc, antioxidants) that injure liver tissue is limited, and the content of sodium and vitamins is reduced. Only a veterinarian can recommend it.

Orijen Tundra

pros

• different types of meat
• natural composition

Minuses

• high price

From 2476 ₽

Consists of 85% meat products (more than 10 types of meat and offal and several types of fish) and 15% vegetables and fruits. Does not contain cereals. It contains only three artificial additives - zinc, copper and choline. The cat receives all other microelements from natural ingredients. Super premium food for cats from 1 year. High in calories, so use with caution when feeding older and sterilized animals to prevent obesity.

Food and more

For a pet to have a long, happy life, it is important to normalize its diet. With age, it becomes necessary to introduce a balanced diet. It should contain such useful substances as proteins, fats, carbohydrates, micro-macroelements. They are found not only in natural products, but also in premium cat food.

A properly balanced diet will help your four-legged friend become more active. His eyes will sparkle, his appetite will improve, and his coat will regain its lost thickness.

Natural nutrition

From the age of 6 years, your pet’s diet should include protein. By nature, cats are predators. Therefore, you should eat meat, fish, and dairy products. Remember, food should be varied. Therefore, it is worth adding carbohydrates to proteins. Found in porridges and boiled vegetables. But fiber should make up 20% of the diet. Its consumption will help improve the functioning of the digestive system.

Valuable acids contained in oil, fish, and meat fat prevent the occurrence of diseases of the genitourinary system.

Industrial food

Of course, it is very difficult to feed an animal with cereals and vegetables. No matter how the owner mixes healthy natural products, his four-legged friends may not touch it. Therefore, many people switch to industrial food.

Dry, crunchy food saves time for cat owners. They have a long shelf life. They can be stored in any dry place, and the packaging lasts a long time.

Why grain-free food is best for cats

The cat is an obligate predator. And obligate carnivores eat proteins only of animal origin. In the diet of obligate carnivores, plant foods make up no more than 5-10%. It can enter the body from the stomachs of killed prey.

No matter how people domesticate cats, it is useless to argue with nature - this species has a high need for animal proteins and essential amino acids.

Cats do not need plant foods, they need meat and fish. Yes, a small percentage of plant ingredients may be present in the food, but the rest should be animal proteins.

Why do manufacturers add grains to feed?

Grain crops are added to economy, premium and some super-premium brands. This allows manufacturers to reduce the cost of their products. High-quality grain-free feeds of a higher class do not contain grain components.

Advantages and disadvantages of dry food

The advantages include

1. Ease of use. You just need to purchase the necessary packaging of food. Then open it. At the same time, do not forget to pour some water into the bowl. All pets are full and happy.
2. Dry food is more balanced. They often help out in any situation. It happens that the refrigerator does not have the necessary products for proper nutrition of your beloved cat. Moreover, often there is no time to prepare natural products. Now manufacturers divide food not only by age, but also by disease. Produced for pregnant, sterilized, lactating animals. Will help normalize weight for those who are obese.
3. Wet and dry food contain taurine, which is essential for cats. Of course, it is found not only in them, but also in beef, fish, and seafood. At the same time, it does not often find its way into a pet’s natural diet. Taurine affects visual acuity and the functioning of the cardiovascular system. Interestingly, dog food does not contain taurine. Therefore, there is no point in giving it to pussies.
4. Dry lumps will help get rid of oral problems. Cleans teeth from tartar, plaque, and gum inflammation. This does not mean that your pet now does not need teeth cleaning. But, there are people who don’t take care of their pussy’s oral cavity, so dry food will simply help out.

Flaws

If there are advantages, then there are disadvantages.

1. The big disadvantage is that the food is dry. In this case, the pet should be given plenty of water. Many people don't drink enough fluids. All this is due to the nature of cats. The liquid is consumed from the bodies of their victims. Veterinarians advise first checking whether your pet is drinking enough water. If not, then you should give up dry food. You can combine the diet. To do this, wet food is added to dry food.
2. No matter how healthy the food is, there are still manufacturers who add chemicals. Before purchasing another pack of food, it is advisable to study the composition. If it contains harmful substances, you should refuse to purchase such a product.
3. The digestive system suffers from constant consumption of dry food. May cause intestinal obstruction, gastritis, and ulceration. Here it is necessary to alternate, change the composition and norms of nutrition.

Types of feed

1. Economy class. They are cheap because they consist of by-products. They also often contain harmful substances. Veterinarians do not recommend compiling a pet’s diet only from this class. After all, the animal’s body may lack important substances for life.
2. Premium class. Contains by-products plus pieces of natural meat. The cost is slightly higher than economy class. At the same time, they are an excellent balanced diet. It also contains useful substances that can give an animal a healthy, active life until old age.
3. Super - premium class. These are expensive feeds. But here the quality matches the price. It contains only natural products. Provide your pet with all the necessary minerals and vitamins.
4. Holistic is class. They were developed specifically for cats participating in exhibitions or breeding work.
5. Organic. They are produced only from the meat of animals that graze freely.
6. Canned. Convenient to store, in addition, it consists of 70% liquid, which is necessary for the cat. But, if your pet eats on a free schedule, then it is better not to use this food. After 20 minutes, the consistency turns unappetizing and also sticks to the bowl.
7. Semi-dry. Consists of pieces coated in a delicious sauce. Their disadvantage is their high sugar content.

Inexpensive feed

Kitekat Fisherman's Catch

pros

• low cost

Minuses

• artificial colors

From 265 ₽

Contains 28% protein (animal and vegetable) and 10% fat. The composition includes a vitamin-mineral complex with the addition of biologically active substances: pantothenic acid, biotin, choline, taurine, etc. The food satisfies the basic physiological needs of the animal, but is not recommended for constant use - a high degree of processing of ingredients and the presence of artificial additives can lead to health problems.

Perfect Fit for sensitive digestion, with turkey 190 g

pros

• price
• does not contain wheat or soy

Minuses

• Possible allergy to corn

From 68 ₽

Inexpensive food for cats with digestive problems. Contains a prebiotic – chicory extract, which improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Animal protein consists of 14% turkey. The rest is chicken. The food is enriched with unsaturated acids omega-3 and omega-4, necessary for the health of the animal. Individual intolerance to corn is possible.

Tips for choosing feed

1. We learn to understand the inscriptions on packages. This does not mean that a person must know all the ingredients by heart. But if you read the characteristics on some packs, you can compare the composition.
2. We purchase food from well-known manufacturers. Large companies always try to spend significant amounts of money on research and development of ideal cat food. Therefore, you should not trust unknown companies, especially those that produce food only for a separate supermarket.
3. Select food according to age. The pet's activity depends on this. Moreover, manufacturers indicate age limits on each series of their products. Here it is important to take into account not only the age, but also the characteristics of each animal. For little ones, nutrition is selected for a growing body. Active people need extra energy. Pregnant and lactating cats need more vitamins and minerals. Lighter foods are selected for those prone to obesity. For the elderly, there is a line of balanced nutrition.
4. You cannot feed your pet the same food. This will affect his appetite. The cat will become more picky about its diet. Therefore, it is worth selecting food from different series, with different composition.
5. Medicinal food is prescribed only by a veterinarian. A specialist can identify the disease and choose the right diet. Remember, all doctor's advice should be followed. This will help quickly return your cat to a healthy appearance.

Top best food, according to customers

Monge Superpremium Cat, with chicken

A 1.5 kg package costs 1,200 rubles. For one package of 400 grams you will have to pay 340 rubles. Contains chicken and grains. Suitable for pets from 7 years of age. It has no medicinal properties, but serves as a preventive measure for dental plaque. Improves the condition of the coat. The energy value is 3890 kcal/kg. Nutritional value is crude protein 28.0%, crude oils and fats 14.0%, crude fiber 4.0%, crude ash 6.5%, omega-6 fatty acids 8.5%, omega-3 fatty acids 1. 0%.

Monge Superpremium Cat, with chicken cat food

Advantages:

• Suitable for older cats;
• Convenient small granules;
• Does not contain harmful substances.

Minuses:

• Large packages are rarely sold;
• The bag does not have a fastener, which makes storage inconvenient.

Winner with chicken

Ten kilograms of food cost 2,390 rubles, but you can purchase a two-kilogram package of this food for 500 rubles. it has no medicinal properties. Moreover, the composition is completely natural. Contains dry and fresh chicken meat, corn, vegetable fats, condensed calendula, tomatoes and many other useful substances.

Winner with chicken cat food

Advantages:

• Small granules;
• Has a pleasant smell;
• Not dry, not salty;
• Suitable for cats from seven years old;
• Natural composition.

Minuses:

• High price.

7+ Hill's Science Plan Youthful Vitality for maintaining activity and vitality, with chicken

A package weighing 0.25 kg costs 261 rubles. Has no medicinal properties. But the composition contains not only chicken meat, but also turkey meat, plus a side dish of cereals. The energy value is 404 kcal/100 grams. Nutritional value is protein 30.8%, fat 15.4%, fiber 1.7%, ash 5.4%, omega-3 fatty acids 0.5%, omega-6 fatty acids 3.5%. Minerals are included in the following percentages: calcium - 0.79%, phosphorus - 0.66%, sodium - 0.31%, potassium - 0.82%, magnesium - 0.08%.

7+ Hill's Science Plan Youthful Vitality for maintaining activity and vitality, with chicken cat food

Advantages:

• Good food;
• small, convenient granules;
• An ideal composition that is suitable for use by animals from seven years of age.

Minuses:

• This food doesn't have them.

For the elderly

These foods are intended for cats over 7 years of age.

Purina Pro Plan Sterilized 7+ for the prevention of urolithiasis, with turkey

pros

• contains omega-3, omega-6
• hypoallergenic

Minuses

• No

From 1850 ₽

For spayed/sterilized cats over 7 years old. Contains vitamins A, C and E, beta-carotene, omega-3 and omega-6 acids. The food contains a high percentage of turkey protein, which does not cause allergies. Fat and carbohydrate levels are reduced to prevent obesity. Constant use maintains urine pH at an optimal level, which prevents the occurrence of urolithiasis.

Hill's Science Plan for the prevention of urolithiasis, with chicken

pros

• prevention of urolithiasis
• obesity prevention

Minuses

• possible allergies

From 2180 ₽

Contains natural antioxidants (vitamins E and C) and minerals to prevent urolithiasis. Protein content is 31% and fat levels are reduced to 9.7% to prevent obesity. Allergic reactions to corn and chicken are possible.

NOW FRESH grain-free, with salmon, with turkey, with duck

pros

• from fresh meat
• does not contain grains or by-products

Minuses

• No

From 1772 ₽

Holistic with the perfect balance for cats prone to excess weight. Contains protein from fresh turkey and salmon. Does not contain grains, which are a source of empty calories. Reduced fat percentage. Thanks to this, the animals' weight is normalized. Contains prebiotics and probiotics, unsaturated acids omega-3 and omega-6. Hypoallergenic. The best dry food for older cats in review.

For spayed and neutered cats

Hill's Science Plan 7+, with chicken

The package costs 1,080 rubles and weighs 1.5 kg. Suitable for sterilized pets over 7 years old. It tastes like chicken and has a grain side dish. The energy value of the product is 374 kcal/100 g. Nutritional value: protein 31.5%, fat 9.3%, fiber 0.90%, ash 5.6%. Minerals are included in the composition in the following quantities: calcium 0.86%, phosphorus 0.63%, sodium 0.32%, potassium 0.81%, magnesium 0.07%.

Hill's Science Plan 7+, chicken cat food

Advantages:

• Likes animals from 7 to 14 years old;
• Affordable price;
• Convenient packaging.

Minuses:

• Sometimes the granules have a pungent odor;
• Insufficiently balanced composition.

Royal Canin Sterilized (in sauce) 85 g (pieces in sauce)

Wet food costs 60 rubles 85 grams. Suitable for sterilized, neutered, prevention of urolithiasis and excess weight. Has a good balanced composition.

Royal Canin Sterilized (in sauce) 85 g (pieces in sauce) cat food

Advantages:

• An ideal treat for older cats;
• Acceptable price;
• Sold in economical packaging containing 24 sachets.

Minuses:

• Has a pungent odor that repels some cats;
• Often cats refuse it;
• Often the package contains a lot of sauce but little food;
• Packaging may be damaged upon delivery from an online store.

Perfect Fit with chicken 85 g (pieces in sauce)

It is sold in 85 gram bags. The price for one piece is 24 rubles. This is a wet food that contains all the necessary substances for feeding older cats from the age of seven.

Perfect Fit with chicken 85 g (pieces in sauce) cat food

Advantages:

• Ideal for sterilized older cats;
• Restores the functioning of the digestive system;
• An excellent budget option.

Minuses:

• You can purchase expired products in online stores.

For adults

These dry foods are intended for cats from 1 to 7 years of age.

Purina Pro Plan Sterilized for the prevention of urolithiasis, with salmon

pros

• price quality;
• balanced composition

Minuses

• allergies occur

From 1938 ₽

The composition is high in protein (41%) and low in carbohydrates. This is important for the prevention of obesity in sterilized animals. A complex of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants prevents the formation of kidney stones. The granules contain substances that fight tartar. Allergy to cereals is possible.

Hill's Science Plan for the prevention of urolithiasis, with chicken

pros

• natural antioxidants
• vitamin-mineral complex

Minuses

• a lot of meat by-products

From 4772 ₽

Contains antioxidants to prevent kidney stones and vitamins to support immunity. The ideal ratio of proteins and carbohydrates maintains the cat's muscle tone and prevents excess weight. The protein contains a large percentage of chicken by-products, which can lead to allergies. A good choice for daily nutrition.

Royal Canin Male for the prevention of urolithiasis

pros

• high protein content
• composition of vitamins
• price quality

Minuses

• individual intolerance

From 2156 ₽

Food for sterilized adult cats. A high-quality diet with a high protein content (40%) and a reduced level of carbohydrates to maintain animal activity and prevent obesity. B vitamins, a complex of minerals and antioxidants prevent the formation of struvite and increase cat immunity.

Medicinal feed

Royal Canin Ageing 12+, prevention of urolithiasis

A 4 kilogram package costs 2,560 rubles. This is a medicinal food that serves as a preventive measure for urolithiasis. Its composition is natural, containing a large number of useful substances. Nutritional value: proteins 30%, fats 19%, dietary fiber 4.4%. It contains minerals in the following quantities per 1 kg of product: iron 37 mg, iodine 3.7 mg, copper 11 mg, manganese 48 mg, zinc 145 mg, selenium 0.06 mg, phosphorus 0.6%

Royal Canin Ageing 12+, prevention of urolithiasis cat food

Advantages:

• An ideal treat for cats aged 7 years and above;
• Helps restore health to older cats;
• Affordable price.

Minuses:

• There were no deficiencies found in this food.