Homeopathic Diet for a Senior Cat

As cats begin to age, they may have less energy and become more prone to developing kidney disease and diabetes. According to veterinarian Jeffrey Levy, adjusting your senior cat's diet to incorporate raw foods will help keep the animal in optimal health. Work with your veterinarian to determine what type of diet meets the cat's nutritional needs and how diet can help treat any medical issues the cat may have. Raw-food and homemade diets have homeopathic effects and help boost energy and improve overall health.

  1. Raw-Food Diet

    • Raw-food diets are very beneficial for older cats, partly because they mimic the way cats eat in the wild. It is important to work with a veterinarian, especially one versed in homeopathic medicine, before beginning a new diet. Many older cats develop medical issues such as diabetes, kidney disease and dental problems. All of these issues can be eased through proper diet, but the dietary requirements depend on an animal's medical history.

      Overall, cats benefit when fed a balance of rich proteins, vegetables and calcium-rich foods. On average, a raw-food diet should be 85 percent protein, 10 percent calcium and 5 percent cooked vegetables. Some of the best protein options are chicken, fish, calamari, organ meat (like liver) and eggs. Avoid beef, tuna and ham, because they can be difficult to digest. Also, tuna reduces vitamin B1, and cats will sometimes favor tuna and refuse to eat other proteins.

      Introduce vegetables to the cat slowly, because cats are often picky eaters. Broccoli and pumpkin are generally well-liked by house cats. Begin by mashing the vegetables and putting between a 1/4 and a 1/2 teaspoon in with the meat. Cats benefit from diets rich in natural calcium products. Add cottage cheese, yogurt or goat's milk to the mixture of meats and vegetables.

    Homeopathic Feeding Tips

    • While feeding the cat a homeopathic raw diet will help improve its well-being, it may be difficult for the cat to adjust to its new diet. Begin by mixing small amounts of raw foods in with regular cat food. Slowly increase the amount of raw food to wean the cat off of commercial foods. Be prepared to adjust the diet to meet the changing needs of the animal as it continues to age.

      Some cats may eat better if they are fed several small meals throughout the day instead of one big meal. Many senior cats overeat, so it is important to avoid overfeeding. Feed cats about 50 calories per pound daily. For example, a 10-pound cat should eat 500 calories a day. To help prevent elderly cats from developing obesity, put a food bowl out only at mealtimes.

      Senior cats also need constant access to filtered, cold water. As they age, dehydration becomes a bigger threat for felines. Always keep a fresh bowl of water out for pets, especially when they are left alone during the day. For cats with dental issues, pet owners should mash food to make it easier to chew and digest. For senior cats with kidney problems, consult a veterinarian to adjust the diet appropriately. Also, work with a veterinarian to determine if vitamin and mineral supplements should be added to a raw-food diet.