Orijen now caters to seniors with a special diet that will make you envious of your feline friend. The Orijen Guardian Senior 7+ contains 90% animal ingredients, including wild-caught salmon, free-run chicken, and duck. The first five ingredients are raw or fresh, making it an easily digestible protein source, perfect for aging cats.

This food contains 40% crude protein, which is great for seniors not in the later stages of kidney failure. Additionally, Orijen kibble includes omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) sourced from wild-caught fish and probiotics that can help strengthen the immune system, supporting your cat in fighting off infections.

What we like:
• High protein to maintain a healthy weight
• Palatable dry food option
• Responsibly sourced ingredients

What we don't like:
• High cost

ACANA Senior Entrée is an ideal choice for senior cats as it offers a high-protein diet that contains up to 65% of animal ingredients. As cats age, they are more prone to joint disease and muscle atrophy, but a higher protein diet can help delay the decline.

ACANA’s kibble is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for joint health. These fatty acids ensure that the joints are well-lubricated and help reduce inflammation. And if your cat isn't a fan of tooth brushing, a dry diet can be one of the best ways to maintain dental hygiene.

What we like:
• Rich in amino acids
• No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
• Enriched with fiber and probiotics

What we don't like:
• You may need to add warm water to make it more palatable

Blue Wilderness is a high-protein, extra-tasty recipe for senior cats. This healthy senior dry food is made with whole ingredients, such as deboned chicken, cranberries, blueberries, and sweet potato, which are easily digestible and contribute to your kitty’s health and well-being. 

Since it’s a grain-free option, it’s also suitable for those with wheat or gluten sensitivity. However, not every cat with allergies can benefit, as chicken and potatoes are among the most common feline food allergens. If unsure, check with your vet for an optimal solution.

What we like:
• Highly digestible
• Enriched with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals
• Available in a range of bag sizes

What we don't like:
• Some owners reported their cats disliked the taste of this kibble

Purina ONE Indoor Advantage 7+ wet pâté-style cat food is packed with moisture, making it an ideal choice for senior cats with dental issues or gingivitis. The soft texture of this food makes it easy for your elder cat to eat, which in turn can help them consume more calories—an excellent alternative to kibble.

Consider this grain-free option if your cat has ongoing skin or digestive problems. Reducing the amount of grains and carbohydrates in your cat’s diet can significantly improve their overall health and prevent weight gain as they become less active over time.

What we like:
• Tasty formulation
• Easy for seniors to chew
• High-protein
• Grain-free

Cons
• Some pet owners find the smell of ocean fish to be unpleasant

Blue BuffaloTastefuls Chicken Entrée has a smooth texture and a meaty flavor. The primary ingredients are chicken and broth, making it a delicious meal for your senior feline. The consistency of this recipe is ideal for cats who need a little encouragement to finish their meals.

Having single-serve portions for each mealtime is a convenient way to prevent waste, which can sometimes occur with large cans. Plus, Tastefuls Chicken Entrée has 78% moisture, perfect for managing kidney disease and hypertension and preventing lower urinary tract disease.

What we like:
• A high-moisture content
• Excellent flavor and texture
• Convenient serving size

What we don't like:
• No probiotics or joint supplements

Purina Pro Plan Focus 11+ features a smooth pâté with an easy-to-swallow texture that your cat will love. However, it is important to note that this option is high in fat, so it may not be suitable for cats with obesity or pancreatitis.

On the other hand, the higher fat content can be helpful for cats that need extra encouragement to eat, especially senior cats with dry or flaky skin. 

What we like:
• Created specifically for cats over age 11
• Excellent flavor and texture
• High protein for optimal weight maintenance in senior years

What we don't like:
• It contains more fat than most canned foods
• Includes meat by-products

Hyperthyroidism, an overactive thyroid, is a common issue that affects many senior cats, with over 10% developing this hormonal disease in later life. Symptoms may include increased appetite, weight gain, more vocalization, and swelling in the neck, known as goiter.

Although surgery or medication is the usual way to treat this condition in cats, an alternative method involves managing it through diet alone. The y/d diet is a specially formulated food that must be fed exclusively, as it restricts the intake of iodine completely. This type of food can be an excellent help for cats that aren't fit for surgery or can't tolerate daily medication.

Note: Before starting a veterinary diet, it is important to consult your vet

What we like:
• A good alternative for managing hyperthyroidism
• Dry kibble is beneficial for dental hygiene
• Controlled phosphorous levels for kidney health
• Formulated to reduce the risk of urinary stones and crystals

What we don't like:
• Ingredients aren't of the highest quality
• Premium price tag

Around 30-40% of seniors are impacted by renal disease, which makes kidney-supportive diets a highly sought-after product. It is important to note that a renal support diet is crucial in managing chronic kidney failure, more so than any other intervention or medication.

Royal Canin has come to aid with a dry cat food that helps promote kidney function. It contains antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids proven to support kidney health. The renal diet is energy-dense, scrumptious, and has triangle-shaped kibble, making it easier for cats to eat.

What we like:
• Supports kidney health
• Easy-to-swallow kibble shape
• Restricted protein for renal health

What we don't like:
• Not all cats with renal disease thrive on a dry food diet
• Grains are the first ingredient
• Made with meat by-products rather than lean meat

Almost 90% of senior pets suffer from some degree of arthritis. However, the signs of this ailment can be very subtle, such as a reluctance to jump or a slight decrease in activity and playfulness. If you add kidney disease to the equation, the situation can become even more challenging.

The good news is that a veterinary-formulated diet can help address both problems at once. Hill’s Prescription Diet is designed to improve mobility and quality of life while reducing pressure on the kidneys.

One of the unique features of this dietary option is the ‘Enhanced Appetite Trigger,’ which is a proprietary blend of ingredients that is specifically aimed at pets with reduced appetite. This blend can help encourage them to eat enough calories to stay healthy and active.

What we like:
• Specifically, it targets the most common health conditions
• Improves appetite
• Contains prebiotics for a healthy gut microbiome
• Includes joint supplements
• Chicken is the primary ingredient

What we don't like:
• High price
• Not always available

Iams has developed a fantastic option for cat owners aged 11 and up with feline companions. Their dry kibble in the chicken flavor is affordable and formulated to cater to the needs of senior cats. 

The ProActive Health formula is packed with antioxidants and Vitamin E, which can help strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of age-related infections in cats.

What we like:
• Affordable price
• Chicken as the primary ingredient
• Enriched with antioxidants
• Highly rated

What we don't like:
• It contains some lower-quality ingredients like chicken meal and corn grits