Do Cats Eat Less As They Get Older?

Listen up, cat lovers:

Here's the real deal.

You've noticed your furry friend isn't gobbling up dinner quite like they used to.

And let's be honest, it's freaking you out.

But don't fret, because I've got the solution in today's guide.

Let's dive in! 😺

Is It Normal for Older Cats to Eat Less?

As cats get older, they often eat less.

You might wonder why your cat isn't as interested in food anymore. Well, there are a few reasons for this.

Firstly, as cats age, their metabolic rate naturally slows down.

Their bodies need less energy for daily activities, so they don't have to eat as much as when they were younger.

It's like how you eat less ice cream as you grow older (but who doesn't love a scoop every now and then?).

Another reason older cats eat less is because they're not as active.

They spend more time resting and saving their energy instead of running around like kittens.

Imagine if you had that much energy and suddenly decided to take a step back—wouldn't you also eat less?

I definitely would!

However, it's not only decreased activity that affects older cats' appetite.

As cats age, their taste, smell, and vision may decline.

Just like us, our furry friends can lose some of their senses with age.

And let me tell you, if your food doesn't taste or smell as good, you won't want to eat as much.

Although it's normal for older cats to eat less, it becomes concerning when they stop eating completely.

If you notice that your cat has lost their appetite entirely, you should consult a vet.

They can determine if there's an underlying health issue that needs attention.

So, remember, if your older cat isn't devouring their food like before, it's likely due to natural changes that come with age.

But keep an eye out for any significant changes in their eating habits, and don't hesitate to contact a vet if you're worried.

Your cat deserves to be healthy and happy!

But what if your older cat's decreased appetite is more than just a natural part of aging?

Can an Elderly Cat's Loss of Appetite Point to Something More Serious?

Loss of appetite in elderly cats may indicate underlying health issues

You know, when it comes to cats, it's a big deal if they suddenly lose their appetite.

Especially for our older pals.

What happens is that there are lots of things that can make them uninterested in food. It could be something small like a stomach ache or indigestion.

But it could also be something really serious, like hyperthyroidism, kidney failure, diabetes, or even cancer.

Here's the important thing:

If your cat hasn't eaten anything for more than 24 hours, you gotta take them to the vet.

I mean seriously!

We don't want liver disease, do we?

Other factors affecting appetite in older cats

Now, I don't wanna scare you, but there are other things that can mess with your cat's eating habits.

You know, stress is a major one.

Cats, just like us humans, can get pretty stressed out.

And changes, oh boy.

Changes in their environment or routine can totally throw off their game.

But here's another thing... As cats get older, they start going through some natural changes.

They slow down, have trouble chewing or digesting, and basically become less active all in all.

It happens to the best of us, I guess.

Taking care of your senior cat's health

When it comes to taking care of our older furry pals, we really need to step up.

That means paying attention to what they eat.

No more cheap stuff, alright?

Look for special diets made just for older cats to keep them happy and healthy.

Oh, and here's another tip:

Cut back on the salt and phosphorus in their food.

Believe me, it makes a difference.

And hydration, my friend, is crucial.

Make sure your furry buddy gets enough water.

Think about wet food, adding some broth to their meals, or maybe even getting a cat fountain to encourage them to drink up.

By the way, did you know that dental problems can also mess with their appetite?

Yeah, tooth decay and gum disease can be real troublemakers.

So keep an eye out for any signs of oral health problems in your elderly cat.

Just because they're getting older doesn't mean they don't deserve all the love, care, and attention in the world.

And if you find yourself in a situation where your elderly cat is not eating and you're worried about their health, don't panic.

I've got your back.

In my article My Cat Is Not Eating Force Feeding Your Cat, I delve into the tips and tricks of how to ensure your furry companion gets the nourishment they need.

You'll find everything you need to know about safely and effectively force-feeding a cat in need.

So, if you're feeling concerned and curious, give it a read and let me help you take care of your beloved feline friend.

At What Age Do Cats Start Eating Less?

Cats eat less as they age, usually between 11-14 years where they enter their senior years. Their diet changes and they may need to restrict calories to maintain a healthy weight. As cats get older, their bodies become less efficient at processing nutrients and they eat less to meet their nutritional needs.

The American Association of Feline Practitioners defines cats between 11-14 years as senior and those 15 years and older as geriatric.

At around 11 years old, energy requirements start to increase for aging cats.

You have to monitor their body condition and muscle mass to prevent disease and increase their lifespan.

How Much Should an Older Cat Eat?

When it comes to feeding older cats, there are some additional things you should consider:

1. Individual Dietary Needs: Each older cat is unique and may have different dietary requirements. It's important to be aware of their specific needs and tailor their diet accordingly.
2. Increased Protein Intake: As cats age, their protein needs tend to increase. Make sure to provide them with a diet that is high in protein to support their overall health and muscle maintenance.
3. Calorie Control for Weight Management: Senior cats often need fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight. Consider feeding specially formulated chow with fewer calories to prevent excess weight gain.
4. Easy-to-Digest Diet: Opt for diets that are easy to digest for older cats. This can help prevent digestive issues and maximize nutrient absorption.
5. Monitoring Portion Sizes: Keep an eye on the portion sizes you're feeding your cat. Gradual adjustments may be necessary as their appetite changes with age.
6. Detecting Decreased Appetite: Older cats may experience a decrease in appetite, which can be an early sign of an underlying health issue. By monitoring their food intake closely, you can catch any changes and seek veterinary attention if needed.

Ensuring your older cat's nutrition for a healthy senior life can be achieved by taking these factors into account and offering them a properly balanced diet.

Ways to Boost Appetite in Older Cats

To get your old kitty eating more, here's what you can do:

1. Change up their meals with different flavors and textures to keep it interesting.
2. Opt for high-quality cat food made specifically for seniors - they deserve the good stuff.
3. Add some nutritional supplements if necessary to give them an extra boost.
4. Look for softer, smaller foods that are easier on their teeth.
5. Remember, cats are carnivores, so make sure their food is meat-based and not vegetarian or vegan. 🐱
6. Give them omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin E for added health benefits.
7. If they have dental issues, go for moistened or wet food that's easier to eat.
8. Make mealtimes stress-free - nobody likes eating under pressure, including cats.
9. Use interactive toys during mealtime to make it more fun and engaging for your older cat.
10. Stick to a consistent schedule and portion sizes to help maintain their appetite.
11. Offer healthy snacks throughout the day to keep them satisfied.
12. Keep multiple water bowls around the house to ensure easy access to hydration.
13. Consider getting a fancy water fountain if your cat prefers running water.
14. Adjust their diet to include more wet or semi-moist food to entice them.
15. Take care of any urinary tract issues promptly to prevent problems.
16. Choose an energy-dense diet rich in animal protein to support their muscle mass.
17. Don't be afraid to increase their calorie intake a bit if needed - a little extra padding is okay.

With these tips, your older cat will be happily cleaning their bowl in no time!

And that wraps up today's article.

If you wish to read more of my useful articles, I recommend you check out some of these: How Long Can a Cat Go Without Water, What Happens if Your Cat Eats or Licks Toothpaste, What to Expect After Deworming a Cat, How Long Can a Cat Go Without Water, and Why Are My Cats Whiskers So Short

Talk soon,

-Sarah Davis