Senior Cat Nutrition Calculator

Cats are considered senior at 7 years, geriatric at 11+ years. Senior cats need 20-30% fewer calories than adults due to reduced activity and slower metabolism. However, protein requirements remain high (30-40%) to prevent muscle loss. Our calculator adjusts calorie needs and provides supplement recommendations for common age-related conditions.

Senior Cat Age Categories

• Mature (7-10 years): Subtle changes begin. Activity decreases slightly. Consider senior food with joint support.
• Senior (11-14 years): Age-related diseases common (arthritis, kidney disease, hyperthyroidism). Vet checkups every 6 months. Bloodwork annually.
• Geriatric (15+ years): Multiple health issues likely. May need prescription diets. More frequent vet visits (every 3-4 months).

Common Senior Cat Health Issues

Arthritis (90% of cats 12+ years): Difficulty jumping, stiffness, reluctance to climb stairs or use litter box. Glucosamine/chondroitin supplements, fish oil (anti-inflammatory), CBD oil (vet-approved brands) significantly improve mobility and pain. Elevated food/water bowls reduce joint strain.

Chronic kidney disease (30-40% of cats 10+ years): Increased thirst/urination, weight loss, poor appetite. Switch to prescription kidney diet (low phosphorus) immediately. Omega-3 fatty acids slow progression. Sub-Q fluids at home may be needed in later stages.

Hyperthyroidism (common in cats 10+ years): Weight loss despite increased appetite, hyperactivity, vomiting. Requires daily methimazole medication. Limited-iodine diet (Hill's y/d) may help control thyroid levels in some cats.

Dental disease (70% of cats by age 3): Worsens with age. Bad breath, difficulty eating, drooling. Dental cleaning under anesthesia recommended. Switch to soft or wet food if chewing is painful. Probiotics support oral health.

Senior Cat Feeding Recommendations

• Senior-specific food: Adjusted protein/fat ratios, added joint support (glucosamine), antioxidants. Lower phosphorus to support kidneys.
• Smaller, more frequent meals: 3-4x daily if possible. Prevents nausea, maintains energy levels.
• Wet food preferred: Easier to chew, higher moisture content (kidneys), more palatable (smell/taste decline with age).
• Elevated bowls: Reduces neck/joint strain during eating/drinking.
• Water fountain: Encourages drinking (kidneys less efficient at concentrating urine).

Recommended Supplements for Senior Cats

Glucosamine/Chondroitin: For arthritis and joint pain. Dosage: ~200mg per 10 lb cat daily. Brands: Cosequin for Cats, Dasuquin. Takes 4-6 weeks to see improvement.

Fish Oil (Omega-3): Reduces inflammation (arthritis), supports coat/skin, benefits kidney/heart health. Dosage: ~200mg EPA+DHA per 10 lb cat daily. Brands: Nordic Naturals Pet, Grizzly Salmon Oil.

B-Complex Vitamins: For appetite stimulation, kidney disease, stress. Especially helpful for senior cats with poor appetite. Brands: Pet-Tabs, VetriScience.

Probiotics: For digestive health, oral health, immune support. Brands: FortiFlora, Proviable-DC.

Environmental Modifications for Senior Cats

• Low-entry litter boxes: Easier for arthritic cats to enter/exit. Add litter box per floor if cat can't climb stairs.
• Ramps or steps: To favorite perches/beds to avoid painful jumps.
• Heated beds: Soothes arthritic joints, especially in winter.
• More litter boxes: Senior cats may have urgency issues (kidney disease, diabetes). 1 box per floor minimum.

When to See the Vet

Every 6 months for checkups. Annual bloodwork (kidney function, thyroid, blood sugar) catches diseases early when treatable. Contact vet immediately for: unexplained weight loss, increased thirst/urination, vomiting, diarrhea lasting 24+ hours, refusal to eat 24+ hours, difficulty breathing, or behavior changes.