As our feline friends age, their dietary needs change. Senior cats need food that is easy to digest and packed with nutrients to keep them healthy and active.
Some senior cats also suffer from chronic health problems that require a special diet.
That’s why we’ve gathered some of our favorite homemade cat food recipes for senior cats. These recipes are designed to meet the specific needs of our older feline companions.
And best of all, they’re simple to make! We hope you and your senior cat enjoy these recipes.
#1 – Cooked Chicken Breast Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast
- 1 can sardine in water
- 2 tablespoons cooked spinach
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Preparation:
- Mix together all the ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until you get a smooth consistency.
- Serve to your cat and store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days.
#2 – Tuna and Ground Beef Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 can tuna in water (no salt)
- ½ cup ground beef
- ¼ cup water
- ¾ cup of chopped parsley
Preparation:
- Simmer the beef in a pan for 10-15 minutes
- Allow it to cool, combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender and blend until smooth.
- You can serve it immediately or store it in the fridge for up to three days.
#3 – Beef and Rice Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ground beef
- ½ cup white rice
- 4 tablespoons ground alfalfa sprouts
- ¾ cup chicken broth
Preparation:
- In a frying pan, brown and drain the beef.
- Let it cool, then combine all ingredients in a bowl.
- Serve immediately or store in the fridge for up to three days
Nutritional Needs for Senior Cats
As cats age, their metabolism slow down, and they become less active. Cats over 11 years old are considered senior citizens, and their nutritional needs change as they enter their golden years.
Senior cats need a diet that is:
- Easily digestible: Older cats often have trouble digesting fat, so their food should be lower in fat than the average cat food.
- Packed with nutrients: Senior cats need plenty of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to keep them healthy. They also need higher levels of taurine and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Increased protein: Senior cats need more protein to help maintain muscle mass and prevent weight loss. Look for cat food recipes that contain high-quality protein sources like chicken, turkey, fish, or beef.
- Moisture: As cats age, they usually do not drink enough water. That’s why ensuring your senior cat gets enough moisture in their diet is essential. Homemade cat food recipes with added broth are a great way to increase your cat’s water intake.
What to Consider When Making Homemade Food for a Senior Cat
Senior cats are more likely to develop health problems like kidney disease, diabetes, arthritis, and obesity.
When making homemade food for a senior cat, it is vital to consider their nutritional needs and ensure the food is appropriate for their age and health condition.
Talk to your vet for advice if you’re unsure about what to feed your senior cat.
Avoid feeding your senior cat food high in fat, salt, or sugar, as this can aggravate existing health conditions. You should also avoid giving them table scraps, as these are often not nutritionally balanced for them.
A loss of smell and taste is common in senior cats, so their food should be highly palatable and nutritious. Look for recipes that include meat, vegetables, and healthy fats.
You can also add supplements to their diet to ensure they get all the essential and necessary nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Plain Homemade Chicken Broth Okay for Senior Cats?
Yes, chicken broth is generally safe for senior cats. However, ensure it does not contain any onions or garlic, as these can harm cats.
You should also avoid giving your cat high sodium broth, which can aggravate existing health conditions.
What do Senior Cats Need in Their Diet?
A proper diet for a senior cat should consider the age-related changes in their digestive system, metabolism, and activity level. Senior cats need a highly digestible diet packed with nutrients to keep them healthy and maintain their energy levels.
They also require more water than younger cats, so it’s important to ensure they have access to plenty of fresh, clean water.
How Often Should you feed a Senior Cat?
A senior cat should be fed at least twice a day. However, some cats may need to be fed more often, depending on their health and activity level.
If you are unsure how often to feed your senior cat, talk to your veterinarian for guidance.
Is Homemade Food Better for Senior Cats?
Homemade food can be an excellent option for senior cats, as it can be tailored to their needs. If you’re considering making homemade food for your senior cat, consult your veterinarian first to ensure that you’re making a nutritious and safe diet.
Can Senior Cats Eat Kitten Food?
Kitten food is not appropriate for healthy senior cats, as it is too high in fat and calories. Senior cats need a lower fat and calorie diet, as they are more likely to be overweight or obese.
However, pregnant or nursing cats may need to eat kitten food to get the extra nutrients they need.
Final Thoughts
Making homemade food for your senior cat can be a great way to ensure they get the nutrients they need as they age.
Be sure to consider their nutritional needs and health conditions when choosing recipes, and always consult your veterinarian before making any changes to your cat’s diet.