Cat Food Myths Debunked: When Should Cats Start Switching to Aged Cat Food?

Many people believe that a cat's one-year-old represents seven human years. However, felines between the ages of 0 and 2 grow and age rapidly. A one-year-old cat is roughly equivalent to a 15-year-old human, and at two, it's already 24. After that, the age increases by four years each year, so a seven-year-old cat is equivalent to a 44-year-old human, marking the beginning of middle age. Many food options on the market are tailored to the nutritional needs of cats aged seven and older. So, should cats really switch to senior food when they reach middle age?

[A comprehensive breakdown of cat food ingredients for middle-aged and elderly cats]

Cat food for middle-aged and older cats is often marketed as low in protein, fat, and calories, which can help reduce the burden on the kidneys and aid bowel movements. Many veterinarians also recommend that middle-aged and older cats adapt to a low-protein diet to reduce the risk of kidney disease.

As mentioned earlier, cats are carnivores. Even into middle age and old age, a daily intake of high-quality protein is crucial for their health. It helps maintain good organ and immune function, while also maintaining healthy muscle mass. Adequate intake of healthy fats and fiber is also beneficial for a cat's coat and gastrointestinal health.

[Do cats really need middle-aged and elderly cat food? ]

Although middle-aged and elderly cats' ability to absorb nutrients and metabolize protein slows, they need high-quality, easily digestible protein. The higher the water content of food, the easier it is for aging organs to process and absorb nutrients. Therefore, when choosing a food for middle-aged and elderly cats, aim for one that contains more high-quality protein and fewer processed ingredients. This helps cats maintain a certain level of muscle mass and prevents age-related muscle loss.

What nutritional components should be considered when choosing food for middle-aged and elderly people?

① Water content: Middle-aged and elderly cats need more water. It is ideal to feed them fresh food rich in water, or raw meat food that has been dehydrated or freeze-dried and then added with water, which helps prevent chronic dehydration.

② Nutritional Supplements: Middle-aged and older cats' small intestines begin to function, and their ability to absorb vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes decreases. Oral problems can also lead to reduced food intake, which in turn reduces nutrient absorption. When choosing food, choose foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which are natural antioxidants.

③ High-quality protein: Middle-aged and older cats should consume high-quality, easily digestible animal protein. Avoid feeding cat food containing plant protein. If a cat does not consume enough protein, it may affect its immune function and muscle mass.

It is recommended that cats entering middle age and old age should undergo regular physical examinations every year to ensure that their daily diet has sufficient nutrition. You can also ask your veterinarian for more advice!