Best Food For Cats with Arthritis
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As our cats age, many of them may develop arthritis, a painful condition that can significantly impact their quality of life. Just like humans, cats can suffer from joint inflammation, stiffness, and discomfort.
In such cases, providing the right diet can make a world of difference in managing their condition and improving their overall well-being.
In this article, we will explore the best choices when it comes to food for cats with arthritis, shedding light on the crucial role nutrition plays in alleviating their discomfort and promoting a more active and comfortable life.
Featured Products
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Purina Pro Plan Allergen Reducing Food
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IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Cat Food
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Hill’s Science Diet Dry Cat Food
Buyer’s Guide: Identifying the Perfect Food for Cats with Arthritis
Caring for a cat with arthritis involves making thoughtful dietary choices that can help alleviate their discomfort and enhance their quality of life. Choosing the right food for a cat with arthritis is crucial, as it can play a significant role in managing their condition and improving their overall well-being. To make an informed decision, consider the following factors:
- Consult with a Veterinarian: Before making any dietary changes, consult your veterinarian. They can provide valuable insights into your cat’s specific needs, including the severity of the arthritis and any other underlying health issues.
- Quality Ingredients: Opt for cat foods with high-quality, easily digestible ingredients. Look for options that list real meat, poultry, or fish as the primary ingredient. Avoid foods with excessive fillers and artificial additives.
- Joint Health Supplements: Some cat foods are formulated with joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin. These can help support joint health and reduce inflammation, making them ideal choices for arthritic cats.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids can have anti-inflammatory properties and benefit cats with arthritis.
- Low-Calorie Options: If your arthritic cat is overweight, choose a diet that helps with weight management. Excess weight can worsen arthritis symptoms, so selecting a food designed for weight control can be beneficial.
- Avoid Allergens: Identify any potential food allergies your cat may have, as these can exacerbate arthritis symptoms. Eliminate allergenic ingredients from their diet.
- Moisture Content: Cats with arthritis might benefit from wet or canned food, as it can provide additional hydration and be easier for them to consume.
- Gradual Transition: When changing your cat’s diet, do so gradually to prevent digestive upset. Cats are sensitive creatures, and suddenly changing their diet will alarm them.
1. Purina Pro Plan High Protein Cat Food
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- Chicken & Rice Formula
- Kibble Form
- 16 LBs
Pros
- The main ingredient is Chicken.
- Natural Probiotic Fiber.
- Rich in Vitamin A and Omega-6 Fatty Acids
- Rich in Anti-oxidants
Cons
- Can take time for the cat to adjust to this diet.
Purina Pro Plan High Protein Cat Food in the delectable Chicken & Rice Flavor offers outstanding nutrition for adult cats, making it an excellent choice for felines with arthritis.
The primary ingredient, real chicken, provides high-quality protein crucial for muscle strength and overall health. What sets it apart is its suitability for cats with arthritis – it contains essential nutrients like omega-6 fatty acids, vitamin A, and taurine, promoting healthy skin, coat, and vision.
Additionally, live probiotics support digestive and immune health, addressing common issues faced by arthritic cats.
With 25 essential vitamins and minerals, this cat food provides complete and balanced nutrition, ensuring that your arthritic companion enjoys a meal that not only tastes great but also contributes to their overall well-being.
2. Purina Pro Plan Allergen Reducing Food
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- Dry Food
- Salmon & Rice Formula
- Quality Tested
Pros
- High Protein Formula
- Significantly reduces allergens in cat hair and dander
- Helps with immune and muscle support, digestive and gastrointestinal health
Cons
- Expensive
This innovative cat food has been scientifically proven to reduce the major allergen in cat hair and dander, “Fel d 1“, by an average of 47% in as little as three weeks of daily feeding, making it an excellent option for families dealing with cat allergies.
Beyond allergen reduction, it’s a high-protein cat food that supports your cat’s muscle health with real salmon as the primary ingredient. Moreover, the inclusion of live probiotics aids in digestive health and bolsters the immune system.
The transition to Pro Plan LIVECLEAR can be seamless, and it ensures both your cat’s nutritional needs and your household’s well-being are addressed simultaneously.
3. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Cat Food
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- Dry Food
- Natural Ingredients
- Made in USA
Pros
- Best for digestive health and muscle care
- Contains high-quality protein for lean muscles
- Easy-to-digest ingredients
Cons
- The size of the cat food is large so it is suitable for adult cats only.
Designed to cater to the specific nutritional needs of indoor adult cats, this pet food offers a multitude of benefits.
It uses natural ingredients, with chicken as the primary protein source, to support muscle health.
Additionally, it incorporates DHA from fish oil, promoting brain health and eye development, crucial for cats with arthritis. Balanced minerals ensure strong teeth and bones, while natural fibers facilitate healthy digestion and easier litter box maintenance.
The Hill’s brand also runs a special campaign where every purchase means some money donated to help shelter animals have a better life. With Hill’s, you know your money is going to the right place.
4. IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Cat Food
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- For Senior Cats
- Contains 0% Fillers
- 2x Antioxidants
Pros
- Specially designed recipe for strong bones and healthy joints
- Crunchy kibble form helps reduce plaque build-up
- Contains essential nutrients such as calcium
Cons
- Doesn’t contain much flavor so it may need to be mixed with some other food item
Designed to support the unique nutritional needs of aging felines, this IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Cat Food features chicken as the primary ingredient, ensuring that they receive essential proteins for muscle care.
Notably, it contains Chicken By-Product Meal, a source of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate, vital for joint health, which is particularly beneficial for cats with arthritis. This formula also includes essential nutrients, natural flavor, and antioxidants to promote strong bones and joints, a crucial factor in managing arthritis discomfort.
Additionally, L-carnitine is incorporated to help maintain a healthy weight, an important consideration for arthritic cats.
5. Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Cat Food
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- For Mature and Senior Cats
- Contains Low Fat
- Chicken & Brown Rice Flavored
Pros
- Good for the Immune System
- Taurine helps keep the heart and eyes healthy
- Essential carbohydrates and proteins help maintain energy levels.
Cons
- No significant con
Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Cat Food is an exceptional choice for cats dealing with arthritis. With real deboned chicken as the first ingredient, it provides essential proteins to maintain strong muscles, which is particularly vital for cats with arthritis.
Wholesome whole grains and veggies, along with LifeSource Bits, contribute to a balanced diet. This formula includes taurine, an essential amino acid, to support heart and eye health, which can be particularly crucial for aging cats managing arthritis.
Additionally, it contains vital vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to bolster the immune system, ensuring that your feline companion receives the comprehensive care they deserve.
6. ZIWI Peak Canned Wet Cat Food
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- Comes in 7 different flavors
- Has 2 different sizes to choose from
- Wet Food
Pros
- Has omega fatty acids to reduce shedding
- No added carbs for weight management
- Irrestiable high-meat recipes to entice cats to eat it
Cons
- Lacks consistency and food may thicken after a few hours if not served fresh
ZIWI Peak Canned Wet Cat Food offers a remarkable choice for cats dealing with arthritis. Rooted in New Zealand’s commitment to ethical and sustainable farming, this moisture-rich recipe features free-range venison, raised on lush pastures, providing a rich source of meat and organs in authentic ratios.
This high-quality protein source is particularly beneficial for arthritic cats, as it supports their muscle health and overall well-being. The absence of unnecessary carbohydrates in the PeakPrey recipes ensures that your feline companion receives a diet that is tailored to their carnivorous nature. The natural variability in the food’s shape, size, color, texture, and odor is a testament to its natural ingredients.
ZIWI Peak can be fed as a complete meal or a topper, making it a versatile choice for cats with arthritis. Transitioning to this nutrient-dense food is easy and gradual, ensuring a smooth shift to a diet that brings joy and peace of mind to both pets and their guardians.
Your arthritic cat is sure to savor each and every bite.
7. Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Weight Control
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- Dry Food
- Has 3 different sizes to choose from
- Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Pros
- Helps with weight management to reduce pain in joints
- Maintains lean muscles
- Contains essential vitamins and vital minerals
Cons
- Cats need to slowly migrate to this food to avoid stomach upsets.
Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Weight Control cat food is the ideal choice for cats struggling with arthritis. Formulated with their lifestyle and needs in mind, it offers a balanced and satisfying meal that assists in maintaining a healthy weight.
Real chicken, whole grains, and vegetables are blended to create a flavorful, low-calorie, and filling option.
True to the BLUE Promise, it is crafted with meat first, omitting poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy. Moreover, this natural cat food incorporates Blue Buffalo’s exclusive LifeSource Bits, which contain essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, helping support your feline’s immune system.
Conclusion
In conclusion, managing arthritis in cats is a crucial aspect of ensuring their comfort and overall well-being. With the right combination of care, love, and attention, cats with arthritis can continue to lead fulfilling lives, despite the challenges posed by this condition.