Pet Lovers

[We rescue cats]

We have 4 elder-cats that are getting thin, have any of you changed your cats' diet to a senior food? I am searching but would love a recommendation if anyone has one for a food that worked for their elder-cat. They have had their annual physicals and are all in good health.

Thanks in advance!

[Goldengate8361]

I have 5 cats now and have always had multiple cats over the years. I never found that feeding senior versions of cat food made any difference at all. It is important that they keep eating regularly- any healthy food. For that purpose, I found that sprinkling Forti-Flora on their food helps a great deal. I use one packet that I spread across my 5 little cat plates right now...and my cats love it. It is vet recommended too. It's very good for all cats and it always kept my older cats interested in eating their food. 

[geezerette]

I also use FortiFlora for my two cats, neither are seniors.  One had a tummy problem a couple of years ago and my vet recommended it as part of his treatment.  He did so well on it that I kept on using it and now give it to the other cat too.  Both love it.

[We rescue cats]

Thanks, @Goldengate8361 , I had forgotten all about that!  Just ordered it! They are all eating but two of them seem to  be wanting more so I want to introduce a high calorie food for them. 

@geezerette Thank you, I have one of theses that are always throwing up...goind to try this!

[FancyPhillyshopper]

My oldest is 17 1/2 and is doing well, and weighs about 12 pounds.

My middle cat is 10 and weighs only five pounds--she is a little fluff ball. She is in great health.

Are your cats too thin because they are losing fat --i.e.-they are still active--or are they too thin because they are losing muscle--too sedentary, not eating well.

Healthiness becomes more tenuous as cats age--kidneys, thryoid, cancer, diabetes--all affect appetite.  Have you had a full blood work overview done on all of them?  (Highly recommended for senior pets).

Well, I change food flavors all the time for finicky eaters, offer special treats, prepare fresh meat like chicken, etc. Yes, I agree high protein is important, but too much protein can affect kidneys and urinary function. High quality foods are critical, but you should also offer more frequent small portions daily. Yes, I agree that foods especially for seniors can also provide more nutrition and may have enhanced flavor. 

When I had a cat very sick with cancer, my vet advised that it does not matter so much WHAT the cat would eat, as long he would eat. Appetite stimulants helped, as well as providing a variety of choices.

Best wishes!