Canned food is an important part of feline nutrition, particularly for older cats. Canned food offers several benefits for older cats compared to kibble, such as increased water intake and more easily digestible proteins. However, it’s important to select a canned food that is specifically designed for older cats, as the nutritional needs of a senior cat differ from that of an adult cat.
Nutritional Needs of Older Cats
Older cats have different nutritional needs than adult cats. As felines age, their body composition changes and they become less active.
This means that older cats need fewer calories and more protein than adult cats do. Older cats also have increased needs for certain vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Vitamin E, and Omega-3 fatty acids. All of these nutrients are important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and muscles in senior cats.
Water Intake
Canned food is often recommended over dry kibble as it has a higher moisture content. For an older cat whose kidneys may not be functioning at full capacity, this can be vital in helping to maintain proper hydration levels and avoid dehydration-related diseases like kidney disease or urinary tract infections. Canned diets also tend to be more palatable than kibble which helps encourage a senior cat to eat when their appetite might otherwise be waning due to age-related conditions like dental issues or arthritis.
Digestibility
Canned diets are often more digestible than dry kibble due to the higher moisture content which helps make the food easier to break down in the digestive system of an aging cat. Additionally, many canned foods contain fewer ingredients which can be easier for an aging cat’s digestive system to process than those found in dry foods which often contain fillers or artificial flavors or preservatives.
What Is the Best Canned Food For Older Cats?
When selecting a canned diet for your senior feline companion it’s important to look at the label carefully and make sure it meets your cat’s specific nutritional needs as well as any dietary restrictions they may have due to health issues like diabetes or allergies. Additionally, look for formulas that contain high-quality proteins such as chicken or fish rather than by-products or fillers so your senior cat is getting all of the necessary nutrition they need in their diet.
Conclusion:
Canned food is an important part of nutrition for senior felines with its higher moisture content being beneficial for proper hydration as well as its digestibility making it easier on an aging cat’s digestive system. When selecting a canned diet for your elderly feline companion it’s important to look at the label carefully and make sure it meets their specific nutritional needs while avoiding any unnecessary fillers or artificial ingredients.