Should we change our older cat diet?

Question.
Our eldest cat is now 20 years old but she is still quite lively. She lives with four others who help to keep her young, and she will play happily, chasing toys! She had blood tests about nine months or so ago when she was repeatedly vomiting. These indicated that her kidneys and liver were working well for a cat of her age. She eats well, both premium tinned food and biscuits. She has always preferred 'little and often' as far as food is concerned, and is usually shouting for her meals before they're due.

We have noticed, however, that she's not getting quite the same amount of nourishment from her food these days. She is now quite slender, and her coat is getting a little 'tatty', although she is otherwise in good health. Her stools are well-formed. We've tried her with senior-type cat food, but she seems not to like them, and seems to prefer eating regular food that's put out for the other cats. Is this just a sign of old age, or are there any supplements or treatments available that might help to get more from her food?

Answer.
You do not say if your cat has had a blood test to check her thyroid gland. If not then I would suggest you ask your vet to check this out. Bright alert older cats who eat well but start to go thin may have an overactive thyroid gland. A simple blood test and either tablets or surgery may be indicated. If the thyroid test is clear then I would suggest you try the senior foods again. Premium foods designed for older cats tend to be more digestible.

Many older cats do become thinner with increasing age as they are less well able to digest the nutrients from their food. It might also be worth trying Hill's Feline t/d. a special dental food designed for older (Cats. This product is very palatable and quite high in fat which should help her to gain weight.

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