Evaluation of nutrient content and caloric density in commercially available foods formulated for senior cats
Summers, S.C. et al.
2020
Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine

Older cats are at risk for several age related disorder and nutritional requirements likely change with age. Commercially available foods labeled for cats > 7 years are intended to slow down or prevent the progression of negative metabolic changes associated with aging. Nonetheless there are no established guidelines or requirements available for senior cats formulations.
This study measured the caloric density and caloric distribution of crude protein, crude fiber, crude fat, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium and vitamin D3 in 31 senior and 59 adult commercial nontherapeutic cat food products.
Foods marketed for senior cats are highly variable in their nutrient content and caloric density and with the exception of fiber their composition is very similar to foods for adult cats. General recommendation for use of commercially available foods for senior cat is not advised, the veterinarian recommendation should be made based on the individual needs of the senior cat.