Vitamins for Senior Cats

As cats grow older, they can experience up to a 30 percent loss of body function. Environmental pollutants and a poor diet also contribute to the loss. As your cat's nutritional needs change, so should what you are feeding it. Proper nutrition can aid in slowing down the progression of many diseases and add years to your cat's life. Proper vitamins, such as A, C and E, will assist in keeping your senior cat healthy.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A, found in liver, fish liver oils and other animal tissues, is important for normal bone growth. Deficiency in Vitamin A has been associated with several bone abnormalities. As your cat ages, Vitamin A is useful for keeping its bones strong. This vitamin is also important for ensuring normal protective mucous membranes and sight. Senior cats deficient in vitamin A are more prone to infections and stress-related disorders. Dosage is typically 2272 IU/lb of food consumed. Only use preformed Vitamin A, not beta-carotene because cats are carnivores and cannot use carotene.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is normally synthesized in the liver of healthy cats. However, as cats age, this production can slow down. Vitamin C is excreted unchanged by the kidneys, acidifying the urine making the bladder less hospitable for bacteria to live. There are several forms of Vitamin C supplements available and there is no concern that it is toxic in any dosage. A veterinarian can advise of the best supplement and dosage for your senior cat.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E, stored in the liver and all body tissues, acts as an antioxidant, is important for normal muscle function and disease resistance. A lack of vitamin E can result in muscle disease (dystrophy) and weakness, retinal atrophy, and inflammation of body fat known as pansteatitis. Dosage of vitamin E is generally 14 IU/lb of food consumed and there is no known toxicity from it, even at high doses.