Quick answer
Our top pick is Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Indoor Cat Food. It’s formulated for senior indoor cats with easy-to-digest ingredients and smaller kibble that reduces tracking. For cats with sensitive stomachs, Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach is a great runner-up. If you prefer wet food, Royal Canin Aging 12+ Thin Slices in Gravy offers high moisture and low tracking.
What to consider for Senior Cat Food For Cats That Track Litter
Litter tracking in senior cats can stem from arthritis, muscle weakness, or digestive upset causing loose stools. Choose a food with high-quality, digestible proteins and fibers to firm stools. Smaller kibble size or wet food can reduce scatter. Also consider joint-supporting nutrients like glucosamine and omega-3s, and ensure the food meets AAFCO senior life stage requirements.
What to look for in a cat food
Look for an AAFCO statement indicating the food is complete and balanced for adult maintenance or senior life stage. The first ingredient should be a named meat (e.g., chicken, salmon). Ensure adequate animal protein (around 30-40% dry matter) and taurine supplementation (essential for heart and eye health). Wet food provides moisture for urinary health, while dry food may be more convenient. For seniors, consider added joint support and lower phosphorus for kidney health.
How we chose these picks
- Evaluated ingredient lists for named meat sources and absence of by-products.
- Checked AAFCO nutritional adequacy statements for senior or adult life stage.
- Reviewed guaranteed analysis for protein, fat, and fiber content.
- Considered kibble size and shape to minimize tracking.
- Prioritized brands with a history of quality control and feeding trials.
- Included options for wet and dry food to suit different preferences.
- Read customer feedback on palatability and digestive tolerance.
- Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.
What to avoid
- Avoid foods with unnamed meat or meat meal (e.g., “poultry meal”) as the first ingredient.
- Steer clear of recipes with insufficient animal protein (below 25% dry matter) or added artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
- Do not choose a taurine-deficient diet; always check that taurine is added.
- Be cautious with “all life stages” foods for seniors; they may not have the right calcium-phosphorus ratio.
- Avoid abrupt diet changes; transition over 7-10 days to prevent digestive upset.
For more guidance, explore our cat guides, cat food reviews, and cat health articles.
