Top Tips for a Longer, Healthier Cat Life

One: The Five Key Points for Longevity in Cats

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Cats that are overweight face a higher risk of survival issues. Therefore, to ensure a long life, it's crucial to keep their weight in check. We know that obesity in cats can lead to a higher risk of diseases such as diabetes and liver conditions, which are often caused by excess weight. The array of health issues brought on by obesity can significantly harm a cat's body. By managing their weight effectively, your feline companion can spend more time by your side.

2. Possess a Stable, Rich, and Healthy Gut Microbiome

As the saying goes, "You are what you eat." This is indeed true, but the ability to eat well and enjoy food is predicated on good digestion. All good appetites are built on the foundation of a healthy gut. Therefore, when cats have a healthy gut microbiome and strong digestive abilities, they can easily convert and absorb nutrients, leading to a robust body and a possibility of a longer life.

3. Higher Antioxidant Concentrations in the Blood

Just like humans, longevity requires maintenance. And while a positive mindset is part of the equation, the real key lies in having high concentrations of antioxidants in the blood. Aging is one of the major factors affecting longevity, and boosting the body's antioxidant capacity can help combat the effects of aging.

4. Abundant and Strong Muscle Tissue

Abundant muscle tissue provides cats with the energy they need for daily activities. Muscle loss can lead to weight loss, which in turn increases the risk of illness and mortality. Maintaining strong muscles is essential for a cat's overall health and longevity.

5. A Healthy Skin Condition

Just as with humans, a cat's aging can be assessed by their posture and skin condition. The skin, much like the outer layer of a human, often reveals the first signs of aging. Keeping the skin healthy and maintaining its thickness can act as a barrier against external factors and protect the body from various threats.

Two: How to Ensure Your Cat Lives a Long, Happy Life

Based on the five key points for longevity in cats, we offer the following suggestions from the aspects of diet and exercise.

1. Diet

When it comes to a cat's diet, the most critical aspect is the source of protein. A significant portion of a cat's body is made up of protein, including muscles, organs, and many vital hormones and enzymes, even the collagen and elastin in the dermis of the skin. Highquality and sufficient protein can meet a cat's daily energy needs and provide the necessary proteins for their muscles and skin. For older cats, it's advisable to supplement their diet with digestive enzymes, prebiotics, antioxidants, and omega6 and omega3 fatty acids. Digestive enzymes and prebiotics help maintain gut stability and promote digestion; antioxidants can be supplemented with natural vitamin E; and to maintain healthy skin, additional fatty acids like those found in mackerel, sardines, and salmon, which contain omega6 and omega3 fatty acids, are essential.

2. Exercise

Cats may not have the same opportunities for outdoor exercise as dogs, and their range of movement is often limited to their immediate environment. However, even in a small space, it's important to encourage your cat to be active. Prolonged inactivity can lead to heat buildup and skin sagging, which can contribute to weight gain. Toys like laser pointers, cat trees, and playtime games are excellent ways to get your cat moving and prevent obesity.