Cats are beautiful creatures that can live far beyond a decade if looked after well. As they get older, however, their dietary requirements start to change. As with many living beings metabolism plays a huge role in the distribution of weight, so as the cat gets older owners must be mindful of this.
If they still have a good appetite but seem to be putting on weight then it might be time to step in and alter their eating habits. Extra weight can lead to many problems including heart and respiratory problems as well as other very discomforting problems. There are of course immediate fixes that can avoid a trip to the vet including more exercise and dishing out smaller portions.
Alternatively, many owners observe the more unnerving issues with age such as eating less and losing weight. It is important to be certain about specific eating habits because it can point to an underlying issue. For instance, a moggie that eats well but still loses weight might have problems with its heart, thyroid or diabetes. If the pet is not eating well it could be a sign of periodontal disease or even kidney disease. Signs like this can be worrying and if they persist, it is always recommended that the owner seeks the advice of a vet.
Investing in specialist foods can help senior cats, particularly if they are formulated to aid kidney function. Those with L-Carnitine will also help muscles to recover faster while amino and fatty acids will aid organ function.