| Senior Nutrition - Providing the
proper diet is very important in the care of an aging cat. However,
there is no best food to feed a geriatric cat; the best food depends
on the specific problems or nutritional requirements of the individual
animal. Most foods for older cats are lower in protein, sodium and
phosphorus to help their aging hearts and kidneys. Increased amounts
of certain vitamins have also been found to be beneficial in the senior
cat.
Obesity is a very common problem of older animals and should be
taken seriously. It directly correlates to a decreased longevity,
and may contribute to other problems. For the best health care,
provide your older cat a good quality food that is appropriate for
his specific needs, and do not allow your cat to gain excessive
weight. Try not to give table scraps, and stick with a consistent
diet.
Cats that are arthritic have a far more difficult time moving and
may require strong anti-inflammatory drugs to ease their discomfort.
Weight loss in these animals may have a great impact on improving
their quality of life. Your veterinarian can prescribe or recommend
special lower calorie, high fiber diets that make weight loss easier.
Additionally, through the geriatric work-up, special nutritional
requirements or restrictions may be recommended. These diets attempt
to either slow the development of the disease process, or improve
specific organ function. Special diets for many diseases (even in
the early stages), including kidney, liver, gastrointestinal, heart,
dental and skin disease, are available. Diets for diabetes and cancer
may also be recommended.
Proper nutritional management is a very important part of the care
for your geriatric cat, especially since it is something that you
have control over.
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