A cat requires different levels of nutrition at every life stage, so it is important to choose one that matches her energy level, metabolic rate and other basic needs.
Kitten (up to 4 months)
After relying on their mother's milk for the first 8 weeks your kitten will start growing at an incredible rate. They will need kitten food with protein, fatty acids, folic acid and taurine, an amino acid that aids the development of the immune and digestive system. Getting the correct quantities at this stage will require you to follow the package labelling closely.
Adolescent (7 months to 2 years) and adult cats (3-6 years)
The key consideration for food choices should be related to their activity level. It is always recommended to talk to your vet during this life stage, to guide you on the right food. For low-energy cats you will need enough food to maintain their activity levels and keep them lean, but high-energy cats need more calories and a diet with the right amount of fat and proteins such as Hill's Science Diet.
Mature (7-10 years) and senior cats (11-14 years)
Older cats can become fussier with their food. Keeping an eye on their intake and their hydration becomes more important - too much or too little of any one ingredient may impact their health. Weight in particular is one to keep an eye on and maintaining them in a healthy range will reduces the risk of diseases, such as kidney disease. Choosing a food that is formulated for an aging cat is highly recommended.
Geriatric cats (15+ Years)
As activity levels decrease, selecting a food low in calories and fibre should be on the menu. Managing health concerns, especially as they can lose weight at this stage, is the priority. Selecting a complete and balanced food like Hills Science Diets is highly recommended. In addition to a nutrient-rich food, your cat needs to stay hydrated in order to stay healthy – keep an eye on their water intake as this could be a sign something is not right. Geratric cats can have many health issues, so seeking regular advice from your vet on the appropriate food is highly recommended.