If your senior cat is losing weight or appears underweight, it’s important to address the issue promptly, as it can be a sign of an underlying health problem. Here are some strategies and foods you can offer to help your senior cat gain weight:
1. High-Calorie Cat Food
- Prescription Diets: Consider special high-calorie diets designed for weight gain, such as Hill’s Prescription Diet a/d or Royal Canin Recovery RS. These are often recommended by veterinarians for cats that need to gain weight.
- Wet Food: Wet food is generally more palatable and has higher moisture content, which can be beneficial for senior cats, especially those with dental issues. Look for wet food with high protein and fat content.
2. Supplement with Nutritious Snacks
- Kitten Food: Kitten food is higher in calories and nutrients, making it a good temporary supplement for weight gain in senior cats.
- Cat Treats: High-calorie treats, such as those made specifically for weight gain (e.g., Nutri-Cal), can be added to their diet. However, these should be used sparingly to avoid digestive issues.
3. Frequent, Smaller Meals
- Offering smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can encourage your cat to eat more and help with weight gain. Older cats may not eat large meals at once, so this method can be effective.
4. Add Toppers or Flavors
- Broth or Tuna Juice: Adding a bit of low-sodium chicken broth or the juice from canned tuna to your cat’s food can make it more appealing and encourage eating.
- Wet Food Toppers: There are commercially available wet food toppers or gravies that can be mixed with your cat’s regular food to enhance its flavor and increase calorie intake.
5. Ensure Hydration
- Dehydration can suppress appetite. Make sure your cat is drinking enough water. You can encourage hydration by providing fresh water, using water fountains, or adding water to their wet food.
6. Check for Health Issues
- Dental Health: Ensure that your cat’s teeth are healthy. Dental pain can prevent cats from eating enough.
- Veterinary Consultation: If your cat is losing weight, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian to rule out or treat any underlying health issues, such as hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, or diabetes.
7. Consider Appetite Stimulants
- Mirtazapine or Cyproheptadine: These medications can be prescribed by a vet to stimulate your cat’s appetite if necessary.
8. Create a Stress-Free Environment
- Stress can reduce a cat’s appetite. Ensure your cat has a comfortable and quiet place to eat, away from other pets or loud noises.
Conclusion
Weight loss in senior cats should not be ignored, as it could indicate a health problem. A combination of high-calorie, nutritious food, and veterinary care is the best approach to help your senior cat gain weight. Always consult with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your cat’s diet or introducing new supplements.