As your Ragdoll cat ages, their metabolism slows. Elderly cats require fewer calories than their younger relatives. As a cat owner you need to take their changing dietary requirements into consideration as they age. Your senior cat gets less physical exercise. As a result their muscle mass decreases and their percentage of body fat increases.
Because your senior Ragdoll cat requires fewer calories, you should be feeding less food and fewer treats. Try and provide regular exercise for your cat with short periods of play. Obesity is a health risk for your cat at any age. Being overweight adds stress to your cat’s lungs, heart, and joints. It can also cause kidney problems and lead to different types of cancer.
As your cat ages keep regular check-ups with your veterinarian and discuss your cat’s eating habits and weight. Keep track of your Ragdoll cat’s eating and drinking. If your cat suddenly starts drinking large amounts of water or urinating frequently there could be an underlying medical condition. Elderly cats drink less and are prone to dehydration.
You should monitor your Ragdoll cat’s eating habits at any age. Sudden changes in these habits will give you warnings to potential problems that require your veterinarian’s assistance. Simple things like this are the key to a healthy, happy Ragdoll cat.
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My Ragdoll, Josie, is 17 yrs, 7 months old. Her blood report this week shows her thyroid count elevated and her calcium count has increased, but otherwise, she seems to be in good condition. Do you have any suggestions on diet for her? She is on KD from the vet and I also give her Friskie’s chicken or turkey with warm water. She, for the most part, drinks the liquid and eats little of the meat.
Thanks…Virginia