Focus on nutrition--Optimal nutrition for older cats.

Despite the aging of the feline companion animal population, no specific nutrient requirements have been established for older (aged >7 years) cats. This has led to wide variability in commercial "senior cat" diets. To recommend optimal nutrition for their older feline patients, clinicians should perform a nutritional assessment for each cat, including a thorough dietary history and an estimated body composition; identify medical conditions that could benefit from nutritional modification; and be aware of the differences in nutrient levels among senior diets.