6 Best Cat Food for Senior Cats 2024: Ranked

Cat food delivery services provide healthy, convenient options. However, selecting the ideal choice for senior cats among numerous options can be daunting. I’ve done the research to identify the best options available.

My selections adhere to AAFCO standards, ensuring nutritional adequacy for senior cats. Each choice is crafted with high-quality ingredients, catering to diverse tastes and dietary needs. You can be confident that these options will meet your senior cat's health requirements.

I recommend Smalls for its varied texture and protein choices, tailored to senior cats' needs. It offers a convenient delivery service, ensuring a consistent supply of fresh, nutritious meals for your feline friend. With Smalls, you can provide your cat with meals that are as delightful as they are nourishing.

The Best Cat Food for Senior Cats Reviewed

1. Smalls – Best Overall Cat Food for Senior Cats

Smalls offers a comprehensive nutrition solution for senior cats. It focuses on delivering fresh, human-grade cat food specifically tailored to meet the unique dietary needs of aging felines. With Smalls, you can ensure your senior cat receives the balanced nutrition it requires for a healthy lifestyle.

What's on Offer?

Smalls' lineup includes 5 recipes named Fish (cod and salmon), Bird (chicken), Other Bird (turkey), Pig (pork), and Bird & Fish (chicken and salmon). These options cater to different taste preferences while maintaining high nutritional standards. All meals come in a Smooth, pâté-like texture, making them easy for senior cats to consume. The Bird and Other Bird recipes are also available in Ground and Pulled textures.

The recipes are gently cooked and then frozen to preserve freshness and nutrients. Check out our full Smalls review for more details on nutritional content of the recipes. You can store them in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for as long as 12 months. This flexibility ensures you always have a fresh supply.

All Smalls recipes are grain-free, high in protein and low in carbohydrates, and have a high moisture content. This combination is crucial for senior cats, helping to maintain muscle mass and proper hydration.

What Makes It Special?

Smalls stands out with its commitment to quality, using USDA-certified ingredients in all recipes. This guarantees that your cat receives the safest and most nutritious meals possible. The quality of ingredients reflects Smalls' dedication to feline health.

In addition to its nutritional benefits, Smalls is eco-friendly. All packaging is 100% recyclable, from the cardboard boxes to the corn-based styrofoam insulators. These insulators are biodegradable and can be safely washed down the sink.

Is It Good Value?

When you sign up for a Smalls subscription, you receive free treats for life, adding value to your purchase. Prices start at a reasonable rate of <$2 per meal, considering the quality and convenience offered. Your first sample order includes free delivery, with subsequent deliveries at $10 each.

Smalls ships boxes every 2 to 8 weeks, depending on your preference. This schedule offers flexibility and ensures that you never run out of cat food for your senior cat. The combination of quality, convenience, and bonuses like free treats makes Smalls a great value.

2. The Honest Kitchen – Best Range of Cat Food for Senior Cats

The Honest Kitchen provides a wide array of cat food options tailored for senior cats. Its focus on diverse, high-quality ingredients ensures that your senior cat receives the best nutrition. The range caters to various dietary needs, making it a go-to choice for specific senior cat diets.

What's on Offer?

The Honest Kitchen offers dry, wet, and dehydrated cat food, suitable for senior cats with different preferences. Our full review has all the details on what’s on the menu. The variety ensures that you can find the perfect match for your cat's taste and dietary needs.

Its unique offerings include treats and supplements, like a digestive herbal supplement, that enhances overall feline health. These additions are beneficial for senior cats, providing extra nutrition and care.

For senior cats, it has specially tailored options, such as the Grain-Free Salmon & Cod recipe. The soft pate texture is ideal for older cats. Plus, Goat’s Milk is an excellent choice for adding moisture and boosting the immune system.

What Makes It Special?

The Honest Kitchen features an easy-to-use quiz to help you find the perfect recipe for your senior cat. This personalized approach simplifies the selection process, ensuring that your cat gets what's best for its health and preferences.

Every product includes a handy feeding guide, ensuring that you serve the correct amount for your cat's specific needs. This attention to detail is especially important for senior cats, whose dietary requirements can differ significantly from those of younger cats.

I appreciate the option to purchase trial-size packs. This allows you to test the product before committing to a full purchase, ensuring it's the right fit for your senior cat.

Is It Good Value?

The Honest Kitchen has a rewards program, offering points for shopping and other activities. This program can lead to significant savings over time, especially if you're a regular customer.

Prices start at $5.99 for dry food and shipping is free on orders over $49. This makes it a cost-effective choice for senior cat food, especially considering the quality of the products.

Recurring orders are eligible for a 5% discount on every order. This is a great incentive for regular customers and adds to the overall value of purchasing from The Honest Kitchen for your senior cat.

3. Raised Right – Best Fresh Cat Food for Senior Cats

Raised Right specializes in providing fresh, high-quality cat food, ideal for senior cats. Its focus on nutritionally balanced, easy-to-digest food ensures that your senior cat receives the best care through its diet. Raised Right's commitment to quality makes it a top choice for owners of older cats.

What's on Offer?

Raised Right offers chicken and turkey recipes, perfect for senior cats. The inclusion of pumpkin in some recipes adds nutritional variety and is gentle on older cats' digestive systems.

These recipes are available in a pate-style format, specifically suited for adult and senior cats. The soft texture of the pate makes it easier for senior cats to eat and digest, which is crucial for their health.

All recipes are lightly cooked and human-grade, ensuring the highest quality for your senior cat. Additionally, Raised Right offers Meat Bites and Shake A Flakes, single-ingredient food toppers to add excitement to your cat's meals.

What Makes It Special?

Raised Right is environmentally conscious, offsetting carbon emissions associated with its products. This commitment to sustainability is detailed in our full review and is a significant aspect of its brand.

A full box from Raised Right contains 16 bags of cat food, designed for freezer storage. This ensures the food remains fresh until you're ready to serve it, maintaining its quality and nutritional value for up to 6 days in the fridge.

Raised Right's subscription plans are flexible. You can easily pause your plan online, and for any changes regarding your cat's details, its customer service is readily available to assist you.

Is It Good Value?

Prices for Raised Right start at $9.99/bag and shipping is free for a full box. For those wanting to try the service, a sample order is available for a shipping fee of $9.99.

I find the option of a 50% or 25% feeding plan especially appealing if you're on a budget. This flexibility allows you to provide high-quality food for your senior cat without overspending.

4. Open Farm – Best Ethical Cat Food for Senior Cats

Open Farm stands out in the market for its ethical approach to cat food, particularly for senior cats. It focuses on sustainability and humane practices, ensuring that the food your senior cat consumes is not only nutritious but also responsibly sourced. Open Farm's commitment to ethical standards sets it apart as a top choice for conscientious cat owners.

What's on Offer?

Open Farm's cat food range, formulated by food scientists and nutrition specialists, includes dry, wet, bone broth, and dried raw options. This variety caters to the different preferences and dietary needs of senior cats.

The brand offers a good range of proteins, including chicken, lamb, salmon, and turkey. These options ensure that your senior cat receives a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. However, meals aren’t pre-portioned, so it's important to follow the guidelines on the packs.

For senior cats, Open Farm provides over 15 options. You can filter these based on life stage and sensitivities such as grains, potatoes, and soy, making it easier to find the perfect fit for your cat's specific needs.

What Makes It Special?

As highlighted in our full review, Open Farm's commitment to traceability is commendable. You can track the source of every ingredient, ensuring transparency and trust in what you're feeding your senior cat.

The proteins used in Open Farm's recipes are raised humanely, reflecting the brand's dedication to ethical practices. This aspect is particularly important for those who value animal welfare in their purchasing decisions.

Open Farm collaborates with Terracycle for a recycling program, reducing waste from packaging. It also offers lower carbon options, including wet rustic blend recipes and bone broth, aligning with environmentally conscious choices.

Is It Good Value?

Open Farm's premium recipes are ethically sourced, reflecting the quality of ingredients used. While the prices reflect the premium nature of the products, the Autoship option simplifies the ordering process and ensures regular delivery.

Prices start at $7/day with free shipping on orders over $50 or a nominal fee of $5.99 otherwise. Additionally, Open Farm products are available in stores, which you can locate using the handy tool on its website. This accessibility adds convenience and value for those seeking ethical cat food for senior cats.

5. JustFoodForCats – Best Specialty Cat Food for Senior Cats

JustFoodForCats offers specialty cat food options tailored for senior cats. Its focus on health-specific recipes, particularly for those with dietary sensitivities or allergies, makes it an excellent choice for older cats with special nutritional needs. JustFoodForCats ensures that your senior cat gets not only delicious but also highly nutritious meals.

What's on Offer?

The Fish and Chicken recipe from JustFoodForCats is ideal for senior cats with allergies, thanks to its limited ingredients. This focus on simplicity reduces the risk of allergic reactions and is gentle on sensitive digestive systems.

Containing 42 calories per ounce, this recipe is gluten- and grain-free. These qualities make it a suitable option for senior cats with sensitive GI tracts. Its formulation is particularly mindful of the common dietary issues older cats face.

The high-moisture content in JustFoodForCats' recipes is beneficial for senior cats, aiding in hydration and overall health. However, if you're looking for a wider variety of proteins, I recommend exploring options like Smalls.

What Makes It Special?

Recipes at JustFoodForCats are crafted with the help of specialists, ensuring they’re healthy and meet AAFCO standards. This meticulous approach guarantees that your senior cat receives the best possible nutrition.

All cat food options are human-grade, and as noted in our review, they’re crafted in kitchens open to the public. This transparency is reassuring, reflecting the brand's commitment to quality and trust.

The food is lightly cooked to maintain nutritional integrity, and then frozen for delivery. It's important to use the food within 3 days after defrosting, ensuring freshness and quality for your senior cat.

Is It Good Value?

Accurate portioning is crucial with JustFoodForCats' recipes, and a digital scale is necessary for this. Ensuring your cat gets the right amount is essential for maintaining its health, especially in its senior years.

Prices start at $6.45 and shipping is free for orders over $99. The autoship option offers benefits including free shipping as well as 40% off your first autoship order, and 5% off recurring orders. This makes JustFoodForCats a cost-effective choice for high-quality, specialized cat food for senior cats.

6. Chewy – Best Variety of Cat Food for Senior Cats

Chewy offers an unparalleled variety of cat food for senior cats, making it a top destination for owners seeking the perfect diet for their aging felines. With its extensive range of brands and types, you're sure to find a food option that meets the specific nutritional needs and taste preferences of your senior cat.

What's on Offer?

Chewy provides a vast range of protein options for senior cats, including fish, chicken, and lamb. This variety ensures that your senior cat gets the necessary nutrients in flavors they enjoy. If you prefer a more personalized service, I recommend Smalls for fresh senior cat food.

The platform allows you to filter meals based on allergens, special diets, and health features such as hip and joint health, dental care, and brain health. This feature makes it easier for you to choose the best food for your senior cat's specific health requirements.

With over 100 options for senior cats from trusted brands like Purina, Iams, and Fancy Feast, Chewy caters to all preferences and needs. It also offers foods designed to support other health issues, such as kidney care and digestion.

What Makes It Special?

Chewy isn't just about cat food; you can order a wide range of items for your cat, including toys and accessories. This one-stop-shop convenience is a significant plus for cat owners.

As noted out in our tested review, Chewy also has a good selection of pharmacy items. This adds to the convenience of managing your cat's health and wellbeing in 1 place.

The platform offers great deals on subscriptions and regular deals, making it a smart choice for savings. Its extensive filters help you narrow down your search by food texture, flavor, and other health features. While orders aren’t personalized, the flexibility of choice allows you to pick the best options for your senior cat.

Is It Good Value?

Prices at Chewy start at <$2 per meal, and there's no minimum order requirement. This flexibility is great for trying new foods without committing to a large purchase. I also like that you can create a profile for your pets and save their preferences.

You can sign up for autoship to receive an initial discount on your first order and 5% off future orders. Shipping for one-time orders is $4.95, or free for orders over $49, making Chewy a cost-effective option for a wide range of cat food for senior cats.

Quick Comparison Table

Tips for Choosing the Best Cat Food for Senior Cats

Finding the right cat food for senior cats can be challenging due to their unique nutritional needs. I've gathered some tips to make this process easier for you.

• Consider your cat’s health: Your senior cat's age, existing medical conditions, and dietary restrictions are crucial factors. Smalls caters to these specific needs by offering tailored nutrition. This is important because the right diet can significantly impact your cat's health and wellbeing, especially in their later years.

• Consider the food type: The type of food you choose, whether it's fresh, dry, or raw, matters greatly. Look for nutrients that support senior cat health, avoid unnecessary additives and fillers, and opt for foods prepared in USDA-approved kitchens. The Honest Kitchen, for example, offers slow-cooked, nutrient-rich options that are ideal for senior cats.

• Consider your budget: It's important to find a balance between quality and affordability. Factor in the price range, potential bulk discounts, and shipping costs. Utilize coupon codes to make purchases more economical. Chewy offers a variety of options that can fit different budgets while still providing quality nutrition for your senior cat.

• Check with your vet: Before transitioning to a new food, especially raw diets, consult your vet. They can advise on any potential digestive issues and the suitability of different food types for your cat. Remember, each provider listed here offers solid value for money, ensuring you're investing in your cat's health without unnecessary expense.

FAQ

What is the best food to feed a senior cat?

The best food for a senior cat is 1 that caters to their changing nutritional needs, like the offerings from Smalls. Senior cats often require diets higher in protein and lower in calories to maintain their health and manage their weight. Smalls provides tailored nutrition for senior cats, ensuring they get the necessary nutrients without excess calories or harmful additives.

What’s the best cat food for senior cats with digestive problems?

For senior cats with digestive issues, food that supports gut health is crucial. The Honest Kitchen offers digestive herbal supplements. These are designed to aid digestion and promote overall gut health. This is especially beneficial for senior cats, whose digestive systems may be more sensitive or prone to issues.

Is wet or dry food better for senior cats?

Wet food is often better for senior cats due to its higher moisture content. This helps with hydration, which is crucial for older cats, especially those with kidney issues. Wet food is also easier to eat for cats with dental problems, a common issue in senior felines. All of the services on this list feature options suitable for older cats.

Should senior cats eat grain-free cat food?

Grain-free cat food can be beneficial for senior cats, especially those with allergies or sensitivities. Smalls offers grain-free options that are well-suited for older cats. These diets help to avoid potential allergens and are often easier to digest, making them a good choice for senior cats with dietary restrictions or sensitive stomachs.

Best Cat Food for Senior Cats in 2024 — Final Score