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I know you have heard the general rule that states one year of a cat's life is equivalent to seven human years. You may be surprised to find out that this comparison is not accurate. For example it takes about one year for that cut cuddly kitten to grow into their adult body. Compare that to your teenager who may be seventeen and not quite there yet. In addition, not all cats age at the same rate with genetics, environmental influences, stress, general wellness, and nutrition all playing a role.
When you combine all the facts and figures a cat that is 2 is 21 in human years; a cat that is 8 is 45 in human years; a cat that is 12 is 59 in human years; a cat that is 16 is 75 in human years; and a cat that has reached the age of 20 is now ready for the walker at age 91.
Keeping a close watch on calories
Older felines need about 30 percent less calories than do younger cats. That translates into about 20 calories for each pound of body weight each day.
If the number of calories is not reduced weight gain will likely be the end result. If your beloved feline has become a little too pleasingly plump for comfort they should be placed on a gradual weight loss diet with the goal to lose no more than one pound of body weight per week.
Too much protein can be dangerous
When I read this I was shocked! After all my aging cats will wrestle me for part of my tuna sandwich. While protein is important, a diet consisting of predominately meat/protein produces an increase in nitrogen that must be eliminated by the liver and kidneys. Since older cats tend to have reduced kidney function the blood nitrogen level has a tendency rise which in turn can lead to kidney failure. So the bottom line with older cats and protein is don't overdo it no matter how much your furry feline begs.
Vitamins and Minerals
As cats age their ability to absorb vitamins and minerals through the intestinal tract diminishes. Also, as a cats kidney function declines B vitamins tend to be excreted with the urine. As you may know lack of B vitamins can cause many health problems not the least of which his anemia.
Most senior cat foods do take this into account, though you should not take it as a given.
Calcium and phosphorus intake should be balanced and closely monitored to keep bones strong and prevent softening.
Antioxidants and Other Vitamins
An ever growing body of research suggests that free radicals accelerate the aging process at a cellular level. Generally speaking free radicals are molecules which steal DNA from cells; thus damaging them. Antioxidants donate a molecule to neutralize this process. If not neutralized not only will free radicals accelerate the aging process but have been shown to promote degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis and may contribute to the development of certain types of cancer. The antioxidants most often associated with reducing free radicals are vitamin C, vitamin E, co-enzyme Q, and omega 3 fatty acids.
Herbal and Homeopathic Supplements
Aging cats are susceptible to many different conditions and diseases due to any number of reasons not the least of which being reduced immune system function. Herbal and homeopathic remedies are a good way to promote immune system health in aging felines and could be a preventative option worth considering.
In addition herbal and homeopathic remedies for cats can be play a valuable role when used in conjunction with certain types of prescription medications used to treat difficult conditions such as Cushing's disease and feline incontinence.
Robert D. Hawkins is an enthusiastic consumer advocate for natural health and natural living with over 10 years experience in the field. To discover more about pet health along with information about safe and effective herbal and homeopathic pet remedies Click Here
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