Whether you adopted your older cat or raised him from a kitten you will find that as he ages his nutritional needs change. An older cat´s diet may need to be varied for a number of reasons. A declining digestive system is one of the main reasons for changes in your seniors diet. Try the following tips to help your older cat through one of the many changes of life.

1. Your aging cat may not be able to digest hard food as well anymore. You can try canned foods to help ease his digestive problems
2. You can also add extra roughage to your cat&aute;s diet. This will help, especially if he is having trouble with constipation or runny bowels. Simply mash up cooked rice, pasta, oats, or mashed potatoes and add them to a can of food.
3. It is also a good idea to serve him cooked meats from time to time. While he doesn´t need a steady diet of human food, an occasional treat of cooked chicken or fish can be easily digested.

Barring digestive and other minute problems that come on with aging, your older cat should be able to continue his regular food. You should give him smaller amounts more often. A good cat food will have all the nutrients he needs to maintain his health therefore you do not necessarily have to purchase a food formulated specifically for aging cats unless directed to do so by your vet. It is important to remember not to overfeed your senior. Be sure the meals you give more often only equal one of his regular meals. You should also be cautious about which treats you give him as some are made entirely of sugar and will only cause weight gain.