Signs It's Time to Change Your Cat's Food

It’s a long-held myth that cats should be on the same cat food their entire lives. The truth is, we now know our cat’s nutritional needs can and do change over time due to factors like their life stage, their overall health, and their activity level. Do you think it might be time for a change? Check out our top six signs you may want to get a brand new bag of cat food.

Dull, Flaky Coat
Cat foods rich in essential fatty acids are a key component in keeping a cat’s skin, and therefore her coat, in tip top shape. Many cat foods are designed with skin and coat improvement in mind. Look for a food containing both Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to make your cat’s coat shiny and bright in no time.

Lethargy/Weakness
If your cat had recently undergone a stressful event, illness, or surgery, she may understandably be a little worn out. Foods with high levels of antioxidants can help boost the immune response to accelerate your cat’s recovery and get them back on their feet in no time. Remember: a cat who is suddenly acting lethargic and weak should be evaluated by a veterinarian before making nutritional changes.

'Senioritis'
As our cats age, their nutrient requirements change too. Senior foods, for example, are generally lower in calories but higher in fiber, and often have supplements specific to this lifestage such as joint support and antioxidants. Check the AAFCO label on the back of the cat food. Senior cats should be fed a food labeled for “adult maintenance.” This is because an “all lifestage” food is formulated with kittens in mind. It will also deliver too much fat and nutrients your senior cat does not require. In fact, the cat food could even be harmful to a senior cat. 

For the complete slideshow on signs it’s time to change your cat’s food, visit petMD!