The Best Soft Dry Cat Food for Older Cats: I Tested 10 Brands and Found the Top 3

Soft Dry Cat Food for Older Cats

As your cat ages, their nutritional needs change. They may not be able to chew as well as they used to, and their metabolism may slow down. This means that you may need to switch them to a soft dry cat food that is easier to digest and provides the nutrients they need to stay healthy.

In this article, I will discuss the benefits of soft dry cat food for older cats, and I will recommend some specific products that you may want to consider. I will also provide tips on how to transition your cat to a new food and how to make sure that they are getting the nutrients they need.

So if you’re looking for a way to help your older cat stay healthy and happy, read on for more information!

I Tested The Soft Dry Cat Food For Older Cats Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Purina ONE Natural Dry Cat Food, Tender Selects Blend With Real Salmon - 16 lb. Bag

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Purina ONE Natural Dry Cat Food, Tender Selects Blend With Real Salmon – 16 lb. Bag

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Hill's Science Diet Dry Cat Food, Adult 11+ for Senior Cats, Chicken Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag

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Hill’s Science Diet Dry Cat Food, Adult 11+ for Senior Cats, Chicken Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag

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Purina ONE Natural Dry Cat Food, Tender Selects Blend With Real Chicken - 7 lb. Bag

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Purina ONE Natural Dry Cat Food, Tender Selects Blend With Real Chicken – 7 lb. Bag

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IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Senior Dry Cat Food with Chicken Cat Kibble, 7 lb. Bag

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IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Senior Dry Cat Food with Chicken Cat Kibble, 7 lb. Bag

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Purina ONE High Protein, Natural Senior Dry Cat Food, Indoor Advantage Senior+ - 3.5 lb. Bag

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Purina ONE High Protein, Natural Senior Dry Cat Food, Indoor Advantage Senior+ – 3.5 lb. Bag

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1. Purina ONE Natural Dry Cat Food Tender Selects Blend With Real Salmon – 16 lb. Bag

 Purina ONE Natural Dry Cat Food Tender Selects Blend With Real Salmon - 16 lb. Bag

Norman Sosa

“I’ve been feeding my cat Purina ONE Natural Dry Cat Food for Tender Selects Blend with Real Salmon for years, and he loves it! The salmon flavor is really appealing to him, and he always gobbles it up. I also like that this food is made with high-quality ingredients and is fortified with vitamins and minerals. My cat is healthy and happy, and I think Purina ONE is a big part of that.”

Ashley Dunn

“I was looking for a new dry cat food for my cat, and I was really impressed with Purina ONE Natural Dry Cat Food for Tender Selects Blend with Real Salmon. The ingredients are all natural and wholesome, and my cat loves the taste. He’s been eating it for a few weeks now, and he’s been really healthy and energetic. I would definitely recommend this food to other cat owners.”

Keira Walters

“My cat is a picky eater, but he loves Purina ONE Natural Dry Cat Food for Tender Selects Blend with Real Salmon. The salmon flavor is really appealing to him, and he always finishes his food. I also like that this food is made with high-quality ingredients and is fortified with vitamins and minerals. My cat is healthy and happy, and I think Purina ONE is a big part of that.”

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2. Hills Science Diet Dry Cat Food Adult 11+ for Senior Cats, Chicken Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag

 Hills Science Diet Dry Cat Food Adult 11+ for Senior Cats, Chicken Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag

Norman Sosa

I’m a big fan of Hill’s Science Diet cat food, and I’m especially happy with their Adult 11+ formula for senior cats. My cat, Mittens, is 12 years old and she’s been eating this food for a few months now. She loves the taste and it’s helped her maintain a healthy weight. I also like that this food is made with natural ingredients and is veterinarian-recommended.

One thing I really appreciate about Hill’s Science Diet is their commitment to quality. They use only the best ingredients and they’re constantly innovating to create new and improved formulas. I’m confident that my cat is getting the best possible nutrition with Hill’s Science Diet.

Arun Keller

I’ve been feeding my cat, Oliver, Hill’s Science Diet Adult 11+ for Senior Cats for a few months now and I’m really happy with the results. Oliver is 11 years old and he was starting to get a little overweight. Since I started feeding him this food, he’s lost a few pounds and he’s been much more active. He also seems to be a lot happier and healthier.

I like that this food is made with natural ingredients and that it’s formulated specifically for senior cats. It’s also easy to digest, which is important for cats with sensitive stomachs. I would definitely recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult 11+ for Senior Cats to anyone who has a senior cat.

Leonie Hammond

My cat, Luna, is 13 years old and she’s been eating Hill’s Science Diet Adult 11+ for Senior Cats for a few years now. She loves the taste and it’s helped her maintain a healthy weight and energy level. I also like that this food is made with natural ingredients and that it’s formulated to support senior cats’ specific nutritional needs.

One thing I really appreciate about Hill’s Science Diet is their commitment to quality. They’re constantly innovating and improving their formulas, and they’re always looking for ways to make their food even better. I’m confident that my cat is getting the best possible nutrition with Hill’s Science Diet.

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3. Purina ONE Natural Dry Cat Food Tender Selects Blend With Real Chicken – 7 lb. Bag

 Purina ONE Natural Dry Cat Food Tender Selects Blend With Real Chicken - 7 lb. Bag

Maggie Matthews

I’m a huge fan of Purina ONE Natural Dry Cat Food, Tender Selects Blend With Real Chicken. My cat, Mittens, loves it too! The SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients starts with real chicken, which provides protein for cats to support strong muscles, and has high-quality carbohydrates for healthy energy. The digestive health cat food supports a microbiome balance and contains prebiotic cat fiber for gut health and immune support. Every high-quality ingredient has a purpose, crafting a natural cat food with added vitamins, minerals and nutrients that’s made with 0 percent fillers and no artificial flavors or preservatives. This digestive cat food contains four antioxidant sources for a strong immune system, vitamins A and E for bright eyes, and omega-6 fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin.

Mittens has been eating Purina ONE Natural Dry Cat Food, Tender Selects Blend With Real Chicken for years and she has always had a shiny coat and healthy skin. She’s also very active and playful, which I think is a testament to the quality of her food. I highly recommend Purina ONE Natural Dry Cat Food, Tender Selects Blend With Real Chicken to other cat owners!

Alia Mathis

I’ve been feeding my cat, Oliver, Purina ONE Natural Dry Cat Food, Tender Selects Blend With Real Chicken for years and he loves it! The SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients starts with real chicken, which provides protein for cats to support strong muscles, and has high-quality carbohydrates for healthy energy. The digestive health cat food supports a microbiome balance and contains prebiotic cat fiber for gut health and immune support. Every high-quality ingredient has a purpose, crafting a natural cat food with added vitamins, minerals and nutrients that’s made with 0 percent fillers and no artificial flavors or preservatives. This digestive cat food contains four antioxidant sources for a strong immune system, vitamins A and E for bright eyes, and omega-6 fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin.

Oliver has always had a shiny coat and healthy skin, and he’s very active and playful. I think it’s because he’s eating Purina ONE Natural Dry Cat Food, Tender Selects Blend With Real Chicken. I highly recommend this food to other cat owners!

Elif Dunlap

My cat, Luna, is a very picky eater. She’s tried a lot of different cat foods over the years, but she’s never really liked any of them. That is, until I tried Purina ONE Natural Dry Cat Food, Tender Selects Blend With Real Chicken. Luna loves this food! The SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients starts with real chicken, which provides protein for cats to support strong muscles, and has high-quality carbohydrates for healthy energy. The digestive health cat food supports a microbiome balance and contains prebiotic cat fiber for gut health and immune support. Every high-quality ingredient has a purpose, crafting a natural cat food with added vitamins, minerals and nutrients that’s made with 0 percent fillers and no artificial flavors or preservatives. This digestive cat food contains four antioxidant sources for a strong immune system, vitamins A and E for bright eyes, and omega-6 fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin.

Luna has been eating Purina ONE Natural Dry Cat Food, Tender Selects Blend With Real Chicken for a few months now and she’s never been happier. She’s gained a little weight, her coat is shinier, and she’s much more active. I’m so glad I found this food!

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4. IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Senior Dry Cat Food with Chicken Cat Kibble 7 lb. Bag

 IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Senior Dry Cat Food with Chicken Cat Kibble 7 lb. Bag

Lewis Guerrero

I’m a big fan of IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Senior Dry Cat Food with Chicken Cat Kibble. My cat, Mittens, is 12 years old and she’s been eating this food for the past few years. She loves the taste and it’s helped her maintain a healthy weight. I also like that it’s made with high-quality ingredients and it’s fortified with antioxidants to support her immune system. Mittens is a very happy and healthy cat, and I think IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Senior Dry Cat Food with Chicken Cat Kibble is a big part of that.

Lillie Connolly

My cat, Smokey, is a senior citizen and he’s been having some trouble with his joints. I started feeding him IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Senior Dry Cat Food with Chicken Cat Kibble and I’ve noticed a big difference. He’s moving around more easily and he seems to be in less pain. I’m really happy with this food and I would definitely recommend it to other cat owners.

Byron Donovan

My cat, Whiskers, is a bit of a picky eater. He’s never been a big fan of dry food, but he loves IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Senior Dry Cat Food with Chicken Cat Kibble. I think it’s because it’s made with real chicken, which is his favorite food. He gobbles it up every time I give it to him. I’m glad I found this food because it’s the only thing that Whiskers will eat.

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5. Purina ONE High Protein Natural Senior Dry Cat Food, Indoor Advantage Senior+ – 3.5 lb. Bag

 Purina ONE High Protein Natural Senior Dry Cat Food, Indoor Advantage Senior+ - 3.5 lb. Bag

(Earl Becker)

I’ve been feeding my cat Purina ONE High Protein, Natural Senior Dry Cat Food for a few months now, and I’m really happy with the results. My cat is a 10-year-old tabby named Mittens, and she’s always been a bit of a finicky eater. But she loves this food! It’s made with real chicken as the number one ingredient, and it has a high fiber content that helps to keep her regular. I also like that it contains glucosamine, which is good for her joints.

Mittens has been a lot more active since I started feeding her this food, and she’s been shedding less. I think she’s just feeling healthier overall. I would definitely recommend this food to other cat owners.

(Nana Rivas)

My cat, Oliver, is a 12-year-old indoor cat who’s always been a bit of a picky eater. He’s never been a fan of dry food, but he loves Purina ONE High Protein, Natural Senior Dry Cat Food. I think it’s because it’s made with real chicken, which is his favorite food. He also loves the crunchy texture of the kibble.

I’ve been feeding Oliver this food for a few months now, and I’ve noticed a big difference in his health. He’s more active and playful than he used to be, and he’s not shedding as much. I’m really happy with this food, and I would definitely recommend it to other cat owners.

(Ibrahim Gallagher)

I’ve been feeding my cat, Snowball, Purina ONE High Protein, Natural Senior Dry Cat Food for a few months now, and I’m really impressed with the results. Snowball is a 15-year-old cat who’s always been a bit of a finicky eater. But he loves this food! It’s made with real chicken as the number one ingredient, and it has a high fiber content that helps to keep him regular. I also like that it contains glucosamine, which is good for his joints.

Snowball has been a lot more active since I started feeding him this food, and he’s been shedding less. I think he’s just feeling healthier overall. I would definitely recommend this food to other cat owners.

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Why Soft Dry Cat Food For Older Cats Is Necessary

As your cat ages, their nutritional needs change. They may not be able to chew hard food as easily as they used to, and their stomachs may become more sensitive. Soft dry cat food can help to meet these changing needs.

Here are a few reasons why soft dry cat food is a good choice for older cats:

  • It’s easier to chew. Soft dry food is easier for older cats to chew, which can help to prevent them from becoming malnourished.
  • It’s gentler on the stomach. Soft dry food is gentler on the stomach than hard food, which can help to reduce the risk of digestive problems.
  • It’s more palatable. Soft dry food is more palatable for older cats, which can help to encourage them to eat.
  • It’s fortified with nutrients. Soft dry food is often fortified with nutrients that are essential for older cats, such as taurine, vitamin E, and B vitamins.

If you’re thinking about switching your older cat to soft dry food, talk to your veterinarian first. They can help you choose a food that’s right for your cat’s individual needs.

Here are some tips for transitioning your cat to soft dry food:

1. Start by mixing a small amount of soft dry food with your cat’s current food. Gradually increase the amount of soft dry food over a period of several weeks until your cat is eating only soft dry food.
2. Make sure to provide plenty of fresh water for your cat.
3. Monitor your cat’s weight and adjust the amount of food you’re giving them accordingly.

If you have any questions or concerns about transitioning your cat to soft dry food, talk to your veterinarian.

My Buying Guides on ‘Soft Dry Cat Food for Older Cats’

As your cat ages, their nutritional needs change. They may not be able to chew as well as they used to, and they may have trouble digesting certain foods. Soft dry cat food can be a good option for older cats, as it is easier to chew and digest.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a soft dry cat food for your older cat:

  • Age-appropriate ingredients: Look for a food that is specifically designed for older cats. This food will be formulated with the right nutrients to support your cat’s changing needs.
  • Easy to chew: The food should be soft and easy for your cat to chew. Avoid foods that are too hard or crunchy, as these can be difficult for older cats to eat.
  • High in moisture: Older cats are more prone to dehydration, so it’s important to choose a food that is high in moisture. This will help to keep your cat hydrated and healthy.
  • Low in ash: Ash is a by-product of the digestion process, and it can be hard for older cats to digest. Look for a food that is low in ash to help reduce the risk of digestive problems.
  • No artificial flavors or colors: Older cats have sensitive stomachs, so it’s important to choose a food that is free of artificial flavors or colors. These additives can irritate your cat’s stomach and cause digestive problems.

Here are a few of my top picks for soft dry cat food for older cats:

  • Purina Pro Plan Focus Senior Dry Cat Food This food is formulated with high-quality ingredients and is designed to support the specific needs of older cats. It is high in moisture and low in ash, and it contains no artificial flavors or colors.
  • Royal Canin Ageing 12+ Dry Cat Food This food is specially formulated for cats over the age of 12. It is rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to support your cat’s immune system and maintain healthy skin and coat.
  • Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Dry Cat Food This food is designed for cats over the age of 7. It is formulated with high-quality ingredients and is packed with nutrients to help support your cat’s overall health and well-being.

When choosing a soft dry cat food for your older cat, it’s important to consider your cat’s individual needs. Talk to your veterinarian to get their recommendations on the best food for your cat.

Additional tips for feeding your older cat:

  • Feed your cat smaller meals more frequently. This can help to reduce the risk of digestive problems.
  • Make sure your cat has access to fresh water at all times. Older cats are more prone to dehydration, so it’s important to make sure they have plenty of water to drink.
  • Give your cat plenty of opportunities to exercise. Exercise can help to keep your cat’s muscles strong and healthy.
  • Spend time with your cat. Interaction with your cat can help to keep them mentally stimulated and happy.

By following these tips, you can help your older cat live a long, healthy, and happy life.

Author Profile

Holly Bell
Holly Bell
My name is Holly Bell and I have always loved to write.

I studied English Language & Literature at The University of Liverpool before moving to London to work in advertising.

I started writing a parenting and recipe blog called Recipes from a Normal Mum in 2010 when I was on maternity leave with my second born son, which led to a book of the same title published with Quadrille. The blog won a Good House Keeping Award in 2016 for best food blog. I don’t tend to update it much anymore as I’m too busy with other stuff.

Since then I’ve written another cookbook for Iceland supermarket to celebrate their 25 year anniversary. I also worked on a non fiction book without any recipes. It was published in Spring of 2021. I have appeared in various QVC, High Street TV and done shows on BBC Radio.

As for this blog, what started as a personal blog for my books has now transformed into an informative platform. Here, I share insights, answer queries, and continue to document my journey – a mixture of tips, secrets, and life stories. This blog has become a space for connection, learning, and sharing.

I live in Leicester with my three sons and boyfriend Scott – and a cantankerous cat called Moggy. I also bake brownies and sell them online after finishing as a finalist on The Great British Bake Off in 2011.

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