What food is best for my 10-year-old outdoor cat with stiff joints?

Question

I'm wondering what I should feed my aging (arthritic?) cat. She is 10 or 11 years old and due to family allergies, is an outside cat. Three years ago we got two kittens to keep her company and they brought new life to her - we were not expecting her to survive the winter but she's living a more active life than before kittens. However, as fall approaches, then winter, she is obviously moving slowly and stiffly on cooler mornings (like me with my arthritis). Is there something I should be feeding. Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 6 lbs

Ann Dion, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. As cats get older they often develop arthritis. The best way to treat arthritis is by increasing muscle mass (which is sounds like the kittens are helping Tiger to do by playing with him), and decreasing weight (if overweight, not if underweight). I would first recommend having Tiger seen by a vet to make sure there isn't another cause of him slowing down and also to determine if Tiger is overweight or not. If he is overweight, I would get a low fat, high fiber, senior cat food. There are also special foods that are developed with joint supplement in them to help with arthritis. This is a good idea as well, especially if Tiger isn't overweight. Best of luck with your little ones.

What food is best for my 10-year-old outdoor cat with stiff joints?

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