Aging does not influence feeding behavior in cats

Abstract

The aim of this investigation was to see whether aging influences feeding behavior in cats. Two studies were carried out. In the first study, a standard canned cat food was fed to six young adult and six senior cats for 10 d on an ad libitum basis. Feeding behavior was monitored during the final 5 d. In the second study, diets enriched with beef tallow, olive oil or sunflower oil were fed at an equivalent energy intake for 21 d. Feeding behavior was monitored during the final 5 d. The results of both studies indicated no significant differences between the young and old cats in the number of meals consumed, the amount consumed at each meal or the duration of each meal when fed either ad libitum or at equivalent energy intakes. Daily feeding patterns were similar for each of the 5 d for each cat, with cats tending to consume regular small meals throughout the day and night. The only significant differences noted were among the fat-enriched diets. The diet enriched with beef tallow had fewer refusals compared to the diets enriched with olive oil and sunflower oil, indicating a possible palatability differential. It was concluded that cats of all ages are habitual feeders with similar daily feeding patterns, which may be altered only with a change in diet. Given that no differences were seen between the young and senior cats, it cannot be assumed that feeding patterns are responsible for the previously observed age-related decreases in apparent digestibility.