Lifestage Transition for Cats
With this comes physical change which calls for tailored nutrition to ensure your cat receives exactly what he or she requires.
Although the you may see the changes in your kitten as it grows into an adult, you may not see any signs that your cat has transitioned into a mature cat. Unlike dogs, as cats age they tend to maintain a similar appearance despite physiological changes. The chart below illustrates the age at which these transitions occur, and what products are best suited to your cat at that lifestage.
They're Not Kittens Forever
Kittens experience many physical changes as they develop into adult cats. Physical size and shape change as the bones lengthen and harden, joints mature and muscles, ligaments and tendons all grow to adult size. The coat changes from a soft, immature one to a denser adult coat, sometimes with two distinct layers - an undercoat and an overcoat. Baby or deciduous teeth fall out and are replaced with permanent adult teeth.
The immune system matures as it faces challenges from vaccines and natural exposure to germs. The gastrointestinal and urinary tracts mature and kittens learn very quickly how to control their bodily functions as they become litter-trained.
All of these changes take place in a relatively short time span when you compare cat and human development. It is important to change to an Adult diet once growth is no longer required.
The OPTIMUM Adult formulation is complete and balanced and provides all the nutrients your fully grown cat needs to help maintain strong muscles, healthy digestion and a shiny coat.
With Age Comes Maturity
A cat's metobolic rate decreases with age and so older cats can risk becoming overweight if their diet is not modified appropriately to contain fewer calories.
It is a good idea to monitor your cat's weight on a regular basis. This may entail using the bathroom scales, a trip to the vet, or simply picking up your cat and feeling the ribs to see if there seems to be excess fat. Often early intervention makes all the difference if there is a weight problem.
Mature cats tend to be more sedentary and sometimes it can be difficult to tell if they are experiencing joint problems such as arthritis.
If your cat no longer enjoys being picked up and cuddled, or no longer tolerates being groomed by you, it could be a sign of joint or spinal discomfort.
OPTIMUM Mature is designed to meet the unique needs of older cats, providing them all the nutrients cats require for optimal health as they age.
