We all want our cats to live as long and as happy a life as possible, to continue being our friends and make our lives brighter. And it's in our power to make it happen. A balanced, personalized diet is the key in later years. When your little purrfection is still young and full of energy, she needs extra nutrients and energy found in kitten food, while adult cats require more protein for lean muscle and weight control. As your cat ages, a healthy diet becomes even more vital. It's all about calories, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. And your kitty needs balance!
Cats don’t age like humans. You don't see any outward changes, but organs and systems don't work as well as they used to. So when your cat hits the 12-year mark, it's time to switch things around, even if she loves her usual food. Clean, easily digestible nutrients are vital, and they might not be as accessible in the food for young and active cats.
To help you make sense of the seemingly endless variety on offer, I took a deep dive into the offers for the best cat food for older cats. I analyzed ingredients, nutritional data, and hundreds of the best senior cat food reviews to come up with this shortlist.
Let's Talk Best Cat Food for Older Cats
Every cat is unique. But they share similar difficulties that come with age: sensitive tummy, tooth problems, hairballs, kidney issues. The list goes on. It can start with your cat throwing up the food she is used to. That's your first clue that something has to change. Instead of asking “What is the best adult cat food?” look into senior cat food.
NOTE: If your cat throws up regularly or has diarrhea for a long time, visit a vet as soon as possible to make sure the symptoms are not caused by a serious disease.
We will cover the common recommendations for older cats' food to help you, but you might need to set up a personalized meal plan for your pet with your trustworthy vet.
The rule of thumb says you should avoid cans and bags with a laundry list of ingredients. Even simple and familiar components, such as corn, wheat, and soy, can cause tummy problems for many older cats. Choose brands known for their quality and approved by the vets.
Let's start with the "titans" of the cat food industry. Royal Canin is reliable and trustworthy, among the best senior cat food manufacturers. The brand boasts proven expertise and a wide range of specialized meals for tabbies of all ages, breeds, and sizes. This variety has a 95% rating. The few negative reviews have one thing in common thing: picky eaters. If your tabby is on the whimsical side, she may refuse this food.
PROS:
Well-balanced protein to fat ratio
Soft, tiny slices of chicken and pork in gravy facilitate chewing
Reduced amount of phosphorus protects kidneys
CONS:
Teeny 3-oz cans are quite expensive
Not for grain-sensitive cats
Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult 11+ Classic Senior Canned Cat Food
A personal favorite of mine contains real salmon and tuna. The duo of unquestionably healthy ingredients is rich in microelements and quality protein. It gets better! The formula is enriched with 25 vitamins, specifically selected for older cats. Moreover, this canned food is grain-free. Still, some customers say that their cats just don't like it.
This pate boasts a nice formula full of chicken meat and liver, broth, carrots, and sweet potato with no soy, corn, or wheat. So with this food, you have as simple and understandable a formula as it gets. And this is what you should look for when feeding older cats. Approved by vets, this product contains less fat and protein than the best adult cat food. However, even with this superior quality, you take the risk of changing the cats' ration, so be ready for reduced appetite and outright refusal to eat.
The dry food is full of clinically proven antioxidants that help kitties stay healthy. Still, it's not as popular as the previous options. Despite having a nice reputation as an American producer, the company relies on grains to keep the price down. For older cats, these can cause tummy issues, and no one wants that. The small pieces may also cause problems by falling out of the cat's mouth.
PROS:
High-protein chicken-first recipe
Comes with an exclusive multivitamin blend
CONS:
High fat content
Not enough fiber
Now Fresh Grain-Free Senior Weight Management Recipe
There's no wheat, soy, by-products, or fillers in this formula. Instead, it has added Omega-3 and Omega-6 acids, pre- and probiotics for a happy tummy and a healthy digestive system. It's definitely a nice dry food option for cats of 7+ years. The common complaint is that even "non-finicky eaters" can refuse this food. If your cat is used to artificial preservatives and flavors, switching to a healthier option can become a struggle.
PROS:
Multiple animal-based protein sources
Includes prebiotics and probiotics
Free of grains and soy
CONS:
Not budget-friendly
High in starches and fat
Royal Canin Appetite Control Spayed/Neutered 7+ Dry Cat Food
This dry cat food is designed specifically for spayed/neutered cats that usually need less energy, but have a stronger appetite. The manufacturer claims to have a balanced phosphorus level safe for kidneys that become a problem for many senior tabbies. Remember to stick to the recommended portion sizes; otherwise, your kitty might quickly gain the unwanted extra weight that leads to even more health issues. If you cannot refuse your ever-hungry kitty, this might not be the right choice for you.
High in protein, soy- and grain-free, this food is an excellent option for your cat. Low in carbohydrates (around 18%), the formula is chock-full of chicken, salmon, and whitefish. When they promise high protein, White Frontier really means it! We talk about 42%. Besides, the kibble pieces are good-sized, not too small or too large. Recommended for cats of over 7 years old. Customers seem to like it, but not every cat does.
This food takes care of all aspects of older cats' life: weight control, skin, fur, digestive system, teeth, and claw health. It is a healthy, balanced formula with salmon as the main ingredient. It includes Omega-3 and Omega-6 acids, beta-carotene, vitamin E, fibers, and prebiotics. This particular product is backed by nine years of research that proved its positive impact on cats' lives. Note there is no chicken on the ingredients list. If your cat isn't a salmon-lover, you may find yourself with the food she has no interest in.
PROS:
Salmon-based recipe high in protein
Grain-free formula
Enhanced with digestive supplements
CONS:
Teensy 3-ounce cans
Ground texture doesn’t entice some cats
Blue Buffalo Carnivora Woodland Blend Grain-Free Mature Wet Cat Food
Similar to most products by Blue Buffalo, the best senior cat food (canned) is grain and soy-free, has no by-products, preservatives, or artificial flavor enhancements. Instead, it's made with 95% animal ingredients, no potatoes, no grain, no gluten. Still, this food is higher in fiber, but low in calories. Besides, it includes additional antioxidants and joint-oriented supplements. It's a blend of chicken, fish, turkey, beef, lamb, pork, and duck meat. Why is it good? Because it is as close as can be to a wild cats' diet.
PROS:
High-protein formula enhanced with minerals and vitamins
This variety of grain-free kibble is rich in fibers for a happy tummy. Chicken is the main ingredient, followed by herring, lentils, and cranberries. The formula boasts added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support. According to some reviews, this top-shelf food has a terrific smell. However, other buyers claim to have found weird grains inside the bags.
PROS:
Well-balanced protein to fat ratio
Chicken is No1 on the ingredients list
Grain-free kibble that’s rich in fiber
CONS:
Legumes may cause digestive issues
Occasional quality management issues
TOP 3 Wet Cat Food for Senior Cats
I'm a firm believer cat food should stay simple, understandable, and balanced. I cannot claim my picks will suit your sweetheart, as every cat has a personality of their own. I picked TOP 3 soft cat food for older cats options for your consideration based on research and my experience.
Blue Buffalo Carnivora Woodland Blend Grain-Free Mature Wet Cat Food
It's super healthy, packed with all the good ingredients and yummy stuff. Eating this food does not just keep kitties in good shape, it supports major health improvements. With 90% protein from 11 sources, vegetables, and no gluten, it meets all of your tabby's needs. The formula plays to the cats' instinct to prey on different animals in the wild. Even inside your house, she can get all this delicious and healthy stuff with no additional effort on your part.
Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult 11+ Classic Senior Canned Cat Food
While not the best when it comes to ingredients (as it contains by-products), this is my cat's all-time fave. The formula includes a variety of protein sources (salmon, chicken, tuna) enriched with vitamins B, K, and C.
Although it contains wheat and by-products, it's a decent choice for your pet. I've put it in third place because of gluten content. Still, rich in protein and vitamins, it's relatively low in calories (71 kcal/can).
TOP 3 Dry Cat Food for Senior Cats
Dry food is more suitable for younger kitties with strong teeth. Still, there are some excellent contenders, including
Now Fresh Grain-Free Senior Weight Management Recipe
It's my personal favorite, the best senior cat food available. Just look at the ingredients list, it's fully loaded with healthy stuff with no grain, wheat, or soy, and no fillers. Here we have fresh meat, veggies, fruits, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, along with pre- and probiotics. There is not a single ingredient that can cause sad tummy, diarrhea, or allergies. Moreover, cats seem to like it!
One of the most open manufacturers on the market, they provide a detailed list of ingredients with minimal percentages. We see a nice level of protein (39%), fat (11%), and fiber (5%). It's a good balance for cats that are still active but already need some help with digestion. The formula is developed to improve eye, teeth, and gum health.
Royal Canin Appetite Control Spayed/Neutered 7+ Dry Cat Food
This food is recommended for cats between 7 and 12 years old who require care and restrictions on their diet. High corn content is the biggest downside of this food. Not every cat will like it, and not every tummy will be happy with it.
What Is the Best Cat Food for Cats Aged Three?
I won’t name the brand, but it should contain:
Quality animal protein. If it's chicken, look for additional calcium on the ingredients list
Veggies, fruits, and herbs
Less, or no grain, wheat, soy at all
A reasonable amount of fats of animal origin
Probiotics, vitamins, and minerals
Look for something that you wouldn't mind eating. If you see a lot of obscure ingredients, it's better to put the bag or can back on the shelf.
This food is grain- and soy-free, meaning sweet potato is the main fiber source, perfect for a sensitive tummy. The fiber level is no more than 2.5%. Besides, the product is created for indoor kitties, so it has a balanced level of healthy fats and the right amount of protein.
This food has under 4% of fiber. That's a bit more than the previous choice, but still a nice amount, considering it's grain-free. The formula is low on carbohydrates and supports joint health.
Fiber content is 1.5% maximum, but this option contains soybean oil, and so it goes last. You know soy can be hard to process for kitty tummies. On the other hand, the primary protein source is salmon, which is better than chicken, as it's full of amino acids and healthy fats.
What Is the Best Cat Food for Kidney Disease?
Nearly every entry on my shortlist can be used for cats with kidney disease. Before you choose any of them, visit your vet and let them help you find the best food. Here are a couple of clues to help guide your conversation:
28% to 35% of high-quality animal protein
0.3% to 0.6% of phosphorus
0.4% to 2.5% of Omega-3 fatty acids
Under 0.4% of sodium
Unlimited access to fresh water
The Verdict. So What Is the Best Canned Cat Food for Senior Cats?
Let's sum up with three varieties that are excellent all-around with quality ingredients, reliable reputation, and positive reviews. All three are highly rated by consumers as best canned food for senior cats, trusted by vets, and loved by cats.
Blue Buffalo Carnivora Woodland Blend includes up to 95% of animal ingredients, with no potatoes or grains. It's the closest to wild cats' ration and is enriched with vitamins and antioxidants.
Blue Buffalo Freedom Indoor Mature is a perfect formula with no by-products, gluten, corn, soy, or wheat, all without artificial fragrances and no preservatives. It has lots of yummy stuff: chicken, carrots, flaxseed, cranberries, and blueberries.
How to Use My List of the Best Senior Cat Food Brands
Pick any product at random. Whichever you choose, your cat's health will benefit. Experiment with a couple of varieties and find the one that tastes best for your kitty.
Pay attention to corn, soy, and wheat content and find the grain-free options among my top-10.
Consult your vet to learn which components aren't the best for your tabby and which are vital to her longevity.
Things to Consider Before Buying Cat Food for Older Cats
Just like kittens have different requirements to adult cats, so do senior felines. So what's the best senior cat food? It’s the one that meets these four requirements.
Increased Moisture Requirements
Water is vital for your kitty’s health at any age, but even more so when she’s past her prime. Introducing wet food with a higher moisture content will ensure all her systems are hydrated and healthy, even if she’s not a huge fan of drinking water from the bowl.
Increased Fiber Requirements
Older felines often suffer digestive issues, and fiber is key to promoting clockwork digestion. Look for kibble and wet food with higher digestible fiber content. Prebiotics and probiotics are also a nice touch for senior cat food, as they promote healthy gut bacteria that, in turn, strengthen the immune system.
Softer Texture Preferences
After a lifetime of eating kibble, your kitty may stop being a fan of dry food when she turns eight or nine. It’s down to her teeth and gums condition. If you notice her struggling to chew kibble, it may be the right time to switch to soft wet food, even if it’s more fussy and expensive.
Lower Fat Requirements
As cats age, they become more passive and enjoy longer periods of rest instead of hour-long games. Besides, their bodies do not absorb as many nutrients as they used to in their prime years. All this means you need to choose kibble or wet food higher in protein and lower in fat than adult cat formulas. Too much fat may lead to obesity, and that comes with a fair share of health issues, from skin dryness to diabetes.
When Is It Time to Choose Senior Cat Food for Your Cat?
All kitties are different, and every vet has their own definition of an "adult", "senior", and "mature" cat. Observe your pet's behavior and health to spot the first signs of aging. The changes can start at the age of five, but also at nine or twelve. It all depends on many factors, such as genetics, environment, stress, and more.
The good news is that if you are reading this, your cat is obviously well-loved and in good hands. Just keep being as good a friend to her, as she is to you.
If you have any questions, let me know in the comment section below and stay safe!
FAQ
What's the best food for a senior cat?
It's the one that provides easily digestible protein and fat along with enough fiber to support healthy stool. Many brands offer senior cat food options, and you can choose any that has your vet's approval, clean ingredients list, and positive customer reviews.
When should I switch to senior cat food?
Opinions vary, as some vets believe the dietary changes should happen at the age of seven, while others set the limit at nine or twelve years. Consult your vet and discuss your cat's daily routine. Once it changes and you notice the signs of aging, that should be the time to consider switching to senior food.
Can I feed kitten food to my senior cat?
You shouldn't, as kitten food is too rich in protein and fat for senior cats. As they become less active and their metabolism slows, older cats do not require the same amount of energy. That's why senior cat food is usually less calorie-dense. Eating kitten food won't make your cat younger, but it can lead to obesity and related health problems.
Is kibble or wet food better for a senior cat?
Wet food is less nutritious, but it is easier to digest, so it is often recommended for elderly kitties. Still, you can find a suitable kibble that's formulated with a senior cat's needs in mind. As always, pay attention to your cat's behavior and health after introducing new food and stop using it immediately if you notice any adverse changes.
What do I do with a senior cat begging for food?
If you follow the manufacturer's feeding guide and your cat has a healthy weight, you can introduce small low-calorie treats throughout the day. You should also consult the doctor to ensure constant hunger is not a sign of a disease.
How to pick the best and the tastiest cat food that fits your pet’s health needs? Chose the Pro Plan Focus cat food by Purina to help your cat live a healthy and happy life.
What is the best cat food for weight loss? We have the answer for you, based on hundreds of consumer reviews and in-depth ingredient analysis. Find the perfect meal for your kitty!
Is Taste of the Wild that very cat food your feline craves? Check this article to learn their ingredient quality, and recall history, and more.
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