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What non-prescription food helps my picky senior cat gain weight?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Longhair | Male | neutered | 8.5 lbs

I am trying to help a 13-year-old cat put on weight. He has never liked wet food but I remember helping an older cat with health problems to get some calories by feeding A/D wet food. Is there a similar super palatable food that is not vet prescribed that I might try? My cat's health is good. Recent blood work by my vet showed not problems at all. Thanks.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 27th, 2018

Good question. Hill's A/D prescription diet is energy dense, has high digestibility, is low in fiber, and has a smooth texture. Other alternative over the counters would be just about any kitten food brand that is high quality (hill's science diet, evo, eukanuba or royal canin), or you can try the Iams Max Cal, which has higher calories and is somewhat palatable (varies from pet to pet). I hope this hleps you put on weight for Alex. Best of luck and take care!

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