Ranking of the best food for older cats for 2022

Pets always require care and enhanced care. Loving owners try to find balanced food, which contains all the elements useful for normal life. When reaching old age, you should change the diet, as well as feed specially formulated food for domestic cats in old age. Properly selected diet will significantly extend the life of the pet, making it high-quality and complete.

Of the feeds presented on the Russian market, the review includes the best in all parameters and characteristics. When compiling the ratings, reviews of buyers, breeders, as well as the opinion of veterinarians were taken into account.

Features of the elderly cats

The onset of aging in pets, on average, begins at the age of seven or eight, when they enter old age. After 10-12 years, they are considered to be already old individuals. Of course, such figures are completely arbitrary and depend on the genetics of the animal, lifestyle, and nutrition. Age-related changes cannot be prevented, but it is quite possible to slow down the onset or mitigate the consequences.

Age features are:

• Change in metabolic rate, which causes the appearance of excess weight.
• Decrease in the amount of food consumed due to a decrease in metabolism, chronic diseases, dental problems, or a deterioration in the sense of smell.
• The manifestation of a constant desire is due to the deterioration of memory, as well as the forgetfulness of the cat that she has already eaten.
• Decrease in the ability to absorb nutrients: from seven to eight years - fats (their reduction is required in the diet), over 12 years - proteins, which causes weight loss.
• Decreased bowel activity to promote food with the appearance of constipation.
• Reluctance to drink water due to loss of sensitivity to thirst, with an acceleration in the formation of stones in the urinary tract and a further slowdown in metabolism.
• Tendency to chronic diseases - arthrosis, heart or kidney failure, gastrointestinal diseases (colitis, gastritis, pancreatitis, fatty hepatosis).

It is recommended to detect signs of aging at an early stage:

• weight reduction;
• decrease in activity;
• the appearance of a harder coat;
• behavior change;
• intelligibility in food;
• loss of appetite.

Diet Requirements

When feeding an aging pet, the following rules should be followed:

1. Use a protein that is complete in amino acid composition - a lack of taurine can develop retinal dystrophy with subsequent blindness, cause a decrease in muscle mass.
2. Limit the content of sodium and phosphorus to improve the activity of the cardiovascular and urinary systems.
3. Increase the presence of water-soluble (B) and fat-soluble (A and E) vitamin groups to slow down aging.
4. Maintain levels of zinc and polyunsaturated fatty acids to maintain coat and skin condition.

Top manufacturers show different approaches to the amount of protein, advocating:

• a decrease in its content to protect the kidneys, reduce the load on them;
• maintaining a high protein diet due to increased requirements in healthy cats, and prescribing veterinary diets in renal failure.

It is recommended to feed an elderly pet more often with reduced portions. At the same time, be sure to drink fresh water from a clean bowl or drinking fountain.

A sharp change in diet is not allowed due to the reduced ability of the gastrointestinal tract to adapt to changes.

Differences from regular food

The specificity of food for older cats lies in a number of features that are not suitable for pregnant, lactating and young pets:

• Modified form of analytical composition - reduced total calorie and fat content, attention is paid to protein quality to maintain muscle mass and prevent obesity.
• Increased digestibility of ingredients, inclusion in dietary fiber to stimulate peristalsis.
• The need to maintain kidney function is to reduce the content of phosphorus, the introduction of components to prevent the formation of stones in the urinary tract and optimize the acidity of urine.
• The inclusion of antioxidants and vitamins in the feed.
• Introduction to food chondroprotectors (glucosamine, mussel extract, chondroitin sulfate) to maintain the musculoskeletal system.
• Reduced sodium content, as well as enrichment with polyunsaturated fatty acids and taurine to maintain the functioning of the cardiovascular system.
• Reduced size of kibbles for easier chewing or maceration (if necessary).

Feed types

Dry

Produced in the form of dry granules with an optimal composition for cats or cats aged 7+.

• balance;
• reduction of cooking time, as well as feeding;
• saving money;
• long shelf life.

• increased composition of carbohydrates;
• harm to teeth;
• not enough moisture;
• the presence of aromatic additives.

Wet

Canned food for aging pets, packed in tins, lamisters, soft pouches or plastic pots. Consist of large or small meat or fish pieces, vegetables or cereals, filled with jelly or liquid sauce.

• a large selection of flavors and textures;
• carb free;
• a lot of moisture;
• gentle processing.

• short shelf life;
• high price.

Types of feed by class:

1. Holistic is the highest quality food without flavors, colors or other chemical additives. The ingredients are only organic.
2. Super-premium - contains a lot of meat products, sold in special pet stores.
3. Premium is a natural meat composition made from chicken meat, high-quality by-products that are well digestible and safe for cats.
4. Economy - cheap food with a minimum meat content (about 4%). There are flavors, dyes.

Criterias of choice

What to look for in order to avoid mistakes when choosing food for an elderly cat:

1. Be able to understand the inscriptions on the packages in order to compare feeds from different manufacturers.
2. Choose products from trusted manufacturers who invest heavily in the development of optimal feeds.
3. The specified composition should correspond to the age of the pet.
4. Do not feed the animal with only one food, change tastes and manufacturers.
5. If necessary, strictly follow the recommendations of the veterinarian.

Where could I buy

Popular models of dry and wet food for older cats can be found in pet stores or supermarket departments that sell pet products. The best novelties and budget goods can be seen and checked there.If necessary, consultants will give valuable advice and recommendations - what are there, how to choose, which company is better, how much it costs, which one is better to buy.

If there is no good choice at the place of residence, you can order inexpensive high-quality food from the best manufacturer online in the online store. Product cards, which contain descriptions, features, photos, also contain direct links to the store to purchase the product.

Food for older cats can be bought in packages:

• Dry at a price of 25 rubles (packing 0.085 kg Perfect Fit with chicken) to 8,858 rubles (packing 12 kg Savarra hypoallergenic with duck, rice).
• Wet - from 15 rubles (0.085 kg package of Wiskas with chicken) to 5367 rubles (0.1 kg package of Animonds Vom Feinsten Senior with lamb).

The Best Foods for Senior Cats

The rating of quality feeds was developed based on the opinions of customers who left their reviews in pet stores. The popularity of models is determined by efficiency, usefulness of the composition, naturalness, lack of artificial additives, as well as cost.

The review provides ratings of the best dry and wet food for cats in old age.

TOP 5 best dry food

Nutram S5 with chicken and salmon

Brand - Nutram (Canada).
Country of origin - Canada.

Nutrient-rich food for outdoor cats and older pets. Selected ingredients ensure proper digestion with improved well-being "from the inside out". Fluid balance is regulated by celery seeds (a diuretic) and cranberries (a natural acidifier). Their complex work prevents the development of urolithiasis.

Offered at prices ranging from 514 to 690 rubles per kilogram.

• easily digestible components;
• promoting digestion;
• enrichment with taurine to support vision and the cardiovascular system;
• increased immunity;
• reduces the content of ammonia in the body, reducing unpleasant odor;
• no potatoes, corn, wheat, soybeans.

• not sold everywhere.

Schesir Cat Mature Monoprotein

Brand - Schesir (Italy).
Country of origin - Italy.

Super premium complete food for senior pets. Satisfies many needs, pleases with high quality with the right ratio of useful substances. A good balance of nutrients ensures optimal muscle mass and weight, as well as strong bones. Beneficial effect on the body due to the unique complex of herbal ingredients. Maintenance of joints due to the introduction of glucosamine and chondroitin into the composition.

The food is packaged in packages of 400 grams or 1.5 kg.

Sold at a price of 335 rubles per pack of 400 grams.

• monoprotein soft composition to support physiological processes in the body;
• without soy and wheat;
• good digestibility;
• optimal content of fatty acids and B vitamins;
• ensuring healthy skin and beautiful coat;
• powerful antioxidants slow down aging.

• not always available for sale.

Meowing Heads "Wise Years" with salmon and egg

Brand - Meowing Heads (Great Britain).
Country of origin - UK.

Specially formulated food for indoor four-legged pets. The taurine-enriched recipe includes a great combination of fish and chicken egg, as well as other high quality natural ingredients.Joint support is provided by a unique combination of natural antioxidants, easily digestible elements, FOS and MOS prebiotics, and plant fiber. Promotes hair removal. Round granules of medium size, approximately 6-7 mm in diameter, are easy to chew.

You can buy for 540 - 637 rubles for a package of 450 grams.

• optimal ratio of fats and proteins;
• natural composition;
• enrichment with taurine;
• joint care;
• low calorie;
• improves the process of digestion;
• not allergenic;
• for the withdrawal of wool;
• approved by veterinarians.

• hard for weak teeth;
• high price.

Meowing Heads dry food video review:

Canagan Grain Free with Scottish Salmon

Brand - Canagan (Great Britain).
Country of origin - UK.

Specially formulated super premium grain-free food with a high content of fresh boneless Scottish salmon fillets, as well as herring and salmon meal. The unique combination of taste and health is provided by a high content of healthy proteins with many healthy berries and herbs, as well as a low proportion of carbohydrates.

Price range: from 3,511 to 5,364 rubles.

• grain-free composition;
• selected ingredients;
• a large proportion of fish;
• balance of carbohydrates and proteins;
• easy absorption by the body;
• great taste.

• there is no zip fastener;
• high price.

Hill's Science Plan Youthful Vitality with Chicken and Rice

Brand - Hill's (USA).
Producing countries - the Netherlands, the USA, the Czech Republic.

Brand line of premium balanced food to prevent the signs of aging.The patented formula was developed using high quality ingredients to help maintain the activity and overall vitality of your senior pet. Optimal digestion is ensured by easily digestible elements, while vitamin E and omega-3,-6 fatty acids nourish the skin and give the coat a shiny healthy look.

Rounded small granules are quickly digested and also easily absorbed. The flour from poultry meat contained in them (about 20%) attracts with aroma and taste. Contains no artificial flavors, preservatives or colors.

In stores it is offered for 1,325 - 1,664 rubles.

• the presence of powerful antioxidants to maintain brain activity;
• sufficient content of protein and L-carnitine to increase motor functions;
• easy absorption of high-quality natural ingredients with excellent taste;
• maintaining a healthy urinary system and kidneys with a controlled level of minerals;
• excellent composition and material for luxurious wool;
• strong packaging;
• recommendations from veterinarians.

• not always on sale.

comparison table

	Nutram S5 with chicken	Schesir Cat Mature Monoprotein	Meowing Heads Grain Free Salmon Egg	Canagan GF with Scottish salmon	Hill's Science Plan Youthful Vitality with Chicken and Rice
Taste	with chicken	with chicken	with fish	with salmon	with chicken
Garnish	cereals	cereals	vegetables	vegetables	cereals
special needs	No	monoprotein	grain-free	grain-free	No
Energy value, kcal/100 g	378	3230	347	?	404
The nutritional value	proteins 32.0%; fat 15.0%; fiber 4%; water 10.0%; ash 7.5%; calcium 0.9%; phosphorus 0.80%; Omega-3 0.35%; Omega-6 2.0%.	protein 27%, oils and fats 17%, fiber 4%, minerals 5.6%, calcium 0.85%, phosphorus 0.75%, magnesium 0.07%, sodium 0.35%, potassium 0.6% , moisture 10%, Omega-6 2.3%, Omega-3 0.45%.	protein 40%, fat 14%, fiber 4%, ash 10%, omega-6 2%, omega-3 1.4%.	Protein 37.00%, Fat 20.00%, Fiber 1.50%, Moisture 7.00%, Ash 9.50%, Omega-6 1.33%, Omega-3 3.89%, Calcium 1.89 %, phosphorus 1.32%.	protein 30.8%, fat 15.4%, fiber 1.7%, ash 5.4%, Omega-3 0.5%, Omega-6 3.5%.
Holistic	there is	No	there is	there is	No
Packing weight, kg	0,4; 1,13; 5,4; 6,8	0,4; 1,5	0.45	0,375; 1,5; 4	0,25; 0,3; 1,5
Expiry date, months	16	18	12	18	18

TOP 5 best wet food

Eukanuba Top Condition with Chicken (chunks in sauce)

Brand - Eukanuba (USA).
Country of origin - Russia.

Super premium complete natural food with the unique Thor Condition formula and quality animal protein to keep older cats in good shape. The antioxidants included in the composition support the immune system of the animal. Prebiotics and fiber maintain healthy intestinal microflora. The optimal combination of Omega polyunsaturated fatty acids contributes to maintaining healthy skin, as well as preserving the beauty of the coat. A significant role in the construction of proteins and metabolism is played by the contained methionine, which is not produced by the cat's body itself. Thanks to it, harmful toxins are neutralized and the body is cleansed, preventing liver diseases and preventing the accumulation of fats.

Packing in pouches. Shelf life - 36 months.

The average price is 58 rubles.

• immune support;
• ensuring muscle strength;
• for skin health;
• with the function of controlled acid-base balance of urine;
• no artificial preservatives, dyes;
• good value for money.

• some users note an insufficient amount of sauce;
• not always available for sale.

Royal Canin GastroIntestinal, for problems with the gastrointestinal tract (pieces in jelly)

Brand - Royal Canin (France).
Country of origin - Russia.

Complete dietary food in small pieces in jelly, recommended in case of gastrointestinal upset, with exhaustion, during the recovery period, including for older spayed cats. According to veterinarians, natural ingredients with a high calorie content are easily absorbed by the body of a pet. The protection of the digestive system is provided by a combination of proteins, fiber, fish oil and prebiotics. Thanks to long-chain Omega-3 acids, skin reactions are reduced, and the integrity of the intestinal mucosa is ensured.

Packaged in pouches. Shelf life - 36 months.

It is sold for 65 - 93 rubles.

• ensuring the safety of the gastrointestinal tract;
• high degree of energy value;
• enhanced palatability;
• easy assimilation;
• medicinal natural composition.

• not detected.

Hill's Science Plan Youthful Vitality with Salmon (Chunks in Gravy)

Brand - Hill's (USA).
Country of origin - the Netherlands, France, Czech Republic.

A beneficial product specifically designed to reverse the signs of aging in older cats. The granules contain quality ingredients for the health and long life of your pet. The Youthful Vitality line to attract your four-legged friend has a pleasant aroma and great taste. The composition does not contain any flavors, harmful preservatives and dyes. The recipe includes only high quality natural ingredients.The addition of clinically proven antioxidants strengthens the animal's immune system.

Packing in pouches. Shelf life - 36 months.

In the store you can buy for 82 rubles.

• positive effect on the immune system and the digestive system of the animal;
• energy saturation with activity support;
• useful for joint mobility;
• improved coat due to the presence of Omega acid;
• support for active brain function;
• pleasant taste;
• appetizing smell;
• without artificial additives;
• recommendations from veterinarians.

• not detected.

Vitakraft with saithe, pasta, tomatoes (pieces in sauce)

Brand - Vitakraft (Germany).
The country of origin is Germany.

Complete premium wet food in a gentle sauce for older neutered cats. For completeness of pleasure in a stern there are natural high-quality fish pieces. Contains natural vegetables, which are an additional source of fiber and protein.

Packed in a lamister. Shelf life - 24 months.

Sold at a price of 74 to 92 rubles.

• pieces of natural fish;
• appetizing smell;
• balanced composition of nutrients;
• without preservatives, artificial colors, sugar;
• does not contain GMOs;
• small price.

• not identified.

Animonda Carny with beef and turkey heart (pate)

Brand - Animonda (Germany).
The country of origin is Germany.

A new generation of premium canned product with natural balanced nutrition. Free-range meat was used for cooking, purchased from regular suppliers and processed before packaging.The composition contains natural sources of calcium and sodium chloride, and also contains drinking water. There are no artificial additives or other chemicals in the feed. They are distinguished by German quality, very appetizing with excellent palatability.

The average price is 136 rubles.

• grain-free composition;
• without preservatives, dyes, soy, flavor enhancers;
• complete food;
• good absorption;
• made in Germany.

• not detected.

comparison table

	Eukanuba Top Condition, with chicken 85 g (chunks in sauce)	Royal Canin Gastro Intestinal, for problems with the gastrointestinal tract (pieces in jelly)	Hill's Science Plan Youthful Vitality with Salmon (Chunks in Gravy)	Vitakraft Poesie with saithe, with pasta, with tomatoes (pieces in sauce)	Animonda Carny with beef and turkey heart (pate)
Taste	with chicken	with chicken	with salmon	with saithe	with beef/turkey
Garnish	cereals	cereals	cereals	vegetables	vegetables
special needs	for healthy skin and shiny coat	with sensitive digestion	prevention of ICD, for healthy skin and coat shine	missing	grain-free
Energy value, kcal/100 g	85	955	79		912
The nutritional value	proteins - 8.5%; fats - 4.0%; ash - 2.6%; fiber - 0.1%; moisture - 80.0%; Omega-6 - not less than 1.0%; Omega-3 - not less than 0.1%;; methionine - 0.4%; taurine - not less than 0.07%.	proteins - 8.0%; fats - 5.6%; minerals - 1.8%; fiber - 0.24%; moisture - 80.0%; sodium - 0.12%; potassium - 0.18%; Omega-3 - 0.21%; Omega-6 - 1.4%.	protein - 6.8%, fat - 3.2%, fiber - 0.67%, ash - 1.1%, moisture - 80%, Omega-3 - 0.17%, Omega-6 - 0.73% , calcium - 0.16%, phosphorus - 0.14%, sodium - 0.08%, potassium - 0.15%, magnesium - 0.02%.	moisture - 83%; protein - 9.5%; fat - 5%; fiber - 0.3%; ash - 2%.	protein - 10%, fat - 7%, crude fiber - 0.4%, ash - 1.8%, moisture - 80%, taurine - 0.8 g / kg.
Packing weight, kg	0.085	0.085	0.085	0.085	0.2

Tips "experienced" - what kind of food is banned

Senior cats are not fed:

• any spices, incl. sugar or salt;
• smoked and fatty foods;
• raw fish;
• cow's milk;
• cereals, especially hercules;
• pork;
• raw meat;
• sausages, sausage or other "human" food;
• potatoes, eggplant, tomatoes.

Enjoy the shopping. Take care of yourself and your loved ones!