Senior nutrition generally points to digestible protein, moderated phosphorus and kidney load, and muscle maintenance, but the need depends on individual checkup results.

Age is only a reference. From around seven, year-on-year trends matter more: weight loss, muscle loss and kidney values drifting are the signals.

Switch gradually. Senior cats are more sensitive to smell and texture, and sudden changes can cause refusal, which carries bigger health risks.

A cat with an existing chronic condition should use the prescription diet set by the vet, not swap in a generic senior formula.