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From baby faces to slicing teeth. Perfection isnt just genetic its a lifestyle.By Lucifer Fluffovich (as told to his mum, Kirsti Harefallet)Congratulations.Youve just stumbled upon the most important self-improvement article youll ever read, written by someone who hasnt improved at all in millennia. And thats the point.While other species spent the last ten million years mutating, stretching snouts, growing weird paws, and trying new diets (bamboo, bears, really?), we cats mastered one thing and stopped. Because when nature nails it, she doesnt need a second draft.In a Scientific American article, evolutionary biologist Anjali Goswami has confirmed what every cat already knows: we are perfect. Not just pretty. Not just graceful. Perfect. As in: the final form of predator design. The rest of the animal kingdom? Still tinkering.Want to understand our success? Heres how we did it and why youll never catch up.How Cats Achieved Evolutionary Success (and Domination)Step 1: Pick One Thing and Be Better at It Than Everyone ElseWere predators. Thats it. No omnivore confusion. No but what if I like berries? detours. We hunt. We slice. We pounce. Whether youre looking at a tabby on the sofa or a tiger in the jungle, we all follow the same template.Most mammals have molars for grinding plants. We ditched that baggage long ago. Behind our slicing teeth? Nothing. Not a thing. Just one perfect set of meat-cutters. Evolution didnt waste enamel on salad.Step 2: Keep the Baby Face ForeverImage Credit: Aquarius Studio, ShutterstockHeres where it gets unfair.Most mammals go through awkward teenage phases. Dogs? Start as cute puppers, then turn into long-snouted gremlins. Bears? Giant, fanged troublemakers by six months.But cats? Our baby heads stay babyish. Big eyes. Round cheeks. Compact faces. Forever.Scientists call it lack of developmental variation. We call it adorable domination.Step 3: Choose One Body Type. Stick With It.Lions, leopards, lynxes, and house cats? Were all the same blueprint. Same skull shape. Same bone structure. Just different sizes.We dont come in sausage-shaped, mop-headed, or snub-nosed variations (at least, not when were healthy or bred responsibly). We dont need to.Goswami admitted that even as an expert, she cant tell a lion skull from a tigers. You know why? Because theyre just scaled-up versions of me.Step 4: Evolve as Slowly as PossibleSpeedy evolution is for the insecure. Us? We take our time. Solitary animals evolve more slowly, and cats are famously independent (except lions, but they get a pass for being extra).We dont rush. We dont panic-change. Weve been basically the same since the saber-tooths. Your iPhone has changed more in the last five years than my species has since the Ice Age.You might like to read:A Brief History of Domestic CatsStep 5: Let the Humans Think They Discovered YouLets be honest: this Scientific American article? Not news to me.Ive known since my first slow blink that I was the finished product. But fine, if the humans want to publish studies to feel smart about it, let them. Nod approvingly. Rub your cheek on the corner of their mobile phone.Then knock it off the table.Because perfection doesnt need a press release. But sometimes Its nice to be recognized. View this post on InstagramA post shared by Catster Magazine (@catstermag)Final Thoughts (Because There Are Always Final Thoughts):Cats didnt become perfect.We started there.Whether Im curled in a sunbeam or leaping six times my height in pursuit of a fly, I carry the weight of evolutionary elegance. So next time you catch me staring silently at the wall, remember: Im not just thinking about dinner. Im contemplating ten million years of uninterrupted excellence.Youre welcome. Lucifer Fluffovich, Feline Lifeform, Evolutionary Apex, Destroyer of String, and DEFINITELY NOT Mummys Little Bum-Bum.

In this articleWinnerSilliestMost DignifiedMost ExpressiveBest Action ShotSleepiestCutestEnter Your CatView 7More +Less -This Weeks WinnerName:LunaBreed:KoratFun Fact:Luna was found in a cat colony in Phoenix with a wound and infection so bad on her leg they almost amputated it. A wonderful vet saved her leg, and determined her too sweet to return to the cat colony. Shes the sweetest creature to ever exist.SilliestName:CallistoBreed:European ShorthairFun Fact:This is Callisto, a Ticked Silver Tabby who loves to play hide and seek especially in brown paper tunnels. She likes treats and enjoys cuddles with her Hooman in bed underneath blankets at night.Most DignifiedName:KevinBreed:MunchkinFun Fact:Kevin is the kindest cat you will ever find. Soft spoken with sweet disposition. He loves cuddles, belly rubs, and playing with his brother Tim-Tom.Most ExpressiveName:IvyBreed:Domestic Short HairBest Action ShotName:TigerBreed:Maine CoonFun Fact:That he look at the cameraSleepiestName:StellaBreed:Domestic Short HairFun Fact:Stella is a foster failure from the rescue I volunteer for. Shes also a certified therapy cat AND an adventure cat that enjoys kayaking with me!CutestName:LuluBreed:Maine Coon MixFun Fact:We adopted Lulu a couple of months ago. She has SO much personality! We absolutely love her!Enter Your CatSubmit your kitty for a chance to be featured!Click hereThis article is a part of our Weekly Photo Contest View our previous weeks winners here: July 17, 2025 Click here to view our full list of past winners

Where can you learn about feline health, build your own cat bag charm, have your cats fortune told, meet your favorite celebricats, and even adopt a new cat? CatCon, of course! LAs massive cat-themed convention is back for a tenth year of celebrating all things feline, and this year promises to be better than ever.Since it was founded in 2015, CatCon has welcomed over 100,000 cat lovers and overseen 1,400 adoptions at its signature Adoption Village. This year, the convention takes place August 2nd and 3rd at the Pasadena Convention Center.To help us get a sense of this fun feline event, CatCons founder, Susan Michals, took the time to answer a few of our burning questions.Know Before You Go:What:CatCon, an annual cat-themed conventionWhen:10 am 5 pm, August 2nd and 3rd, 2025Where:Pasadena Convention Center, 300 E. Green StreetTickets:EventbriteAges:All ages (but sadly, no cats!)CatCon takes place on August 2nd and 3rd at the Pasadena Convention Center in LA. On the event website, you can peruse the jam-packed schedule, which includes workshops on common cat health and behavior problems, meet and greets with celebricats like Adventure Cat Max, Nuggie McGlasson, Sponge Cake, One Eared Uno, Cat Named Calvin, One Eared Uno, Lily Rose Adventures, Maple Cat, and Squeaker, and even a cat-inspired fashion show (adorably named Purroject Catwalk).We asked Susan to tell us about her favorite CatCon activities, and she pointed to the fortunetelling popup (Worlds Best Cat Litters Oracle, where you show pictures of your cat and receive their fortune), as well as a DIY your own bag charm booth, the fashion show (featuring local designers and cat lady chic ensembles), and the many veterinary workshops.Tickets are available online and start at $11.42 (for children) and $47.93 (for adults). Children under 5 are free when accompanied by adults. View this post on InstagramA post shared by CatConWorldwide (@catconworldwide)What Inspired CatCon?Susan points to her years of experience in LAs entertainment and journalism industries. Back in 2014, she launched Cat Art Show, a show that features, as you might expect, all kinds of art about cats. The four-day show was a huge success, drawing 4,000 visitors.Susan explains, With that turnout, I realized that a younger demographic of cat loversa massive, passionate communitywere being completely overlooked and underserved. At the time, the prevailing image of cat people skewed toward the tired trope of the crazy cat lady. But the Cat Art Show audience proved otherwise: stylish, smart, culturally curious, and deeply devoted to their pets.CatCons Adoption VillageOne of the centerpieces of CatCon is the Adoption Village, where you can meet and adopt kittens. Run by Pasadena Humane, the village features 200 kittens in need of homes. The regular event ticket includes access to this adoption area, where you can meet kittens, get connected to adoption counselors, and complete all of the paperwork. Best of all, theyre reducing the adoption fees for this special event: only $40 for a single kitten and $60 for a pair. View this post on InstagramA post shared by CatConWorldwide (@catconworldwide)How Does CatCon Give Back?Every year, CatCon picks a different cat-related charity to support. This year, the charity is Pasadena Humane, which has been busy finding homes for the many animals displaced by last Januarys Eaton Fire. CatCon has pledged $1 from every ticket purchased for Pasadena Humane.Over the years, CatCon has donated almost $400,000 to different animal welfare organizations.Ready for Some Feline Fun?Ready to head to this years CatCon? You can pick up tickets at Eventbrite and find all the event details at the official website. Sadly, you cant bring your cat into the event, but you can certainly bring pictures, and feel free to dress up!If you make it to CatCon, we would love to hear about it! Drop us a comment with your favorite parts or what youre looking forward to.

Cats are not exactly the best travel companions. Even if you decide to place some familiar bedding or toys in their carrier, they still may not enjoy the experience.However, with some training and the right carrier, cats can learn to travel and be relatively happy about it. Fortunately, weve found an answer to this puzzle. And yes, its the cat backpack!Compared to a carrier, a backpack has more pros than cons. They are easy to use, aesthetically pleasing, and come in different designs, among other benefits. But you still have to do your due diligence before investing in one, seeing as the market is flooded with products.To make your work easier, we made a list of reviews of our top favorite cat backpacks on the market.In this articleQuick ComparisonOur ReviewsBuyers GuideHow We Selected Our Top PicksWhy Trust Catster?Final ThoughtsView 5More +Less -A Quick Glance at Our Favorites in 2025 Image Product Details Best Overall PetAmi Premium Pet Carrier Backpack Features a collapsible water bowl Sturdy base Breathable interior CHECK PRICE Best Value Jespet Cat Carrier Backpack Great value for money Two side pockets Well-ventilated CHECK PRICE Premium Choice Snoozer Pet Products Roll Around Cat Carrier Backpack Versatile Comes in different sizes Well-ventilated CHECK PRICE Gen7pets Geometric Roller Cat Carrier Backpack Has a Smart-Level Platform Extendable handle Two front doors CHECK PRICE Pet Gear I-Go Plus Traveler Cat Backpack Versatile Spacious Airline-approved CHECK PRICE The 8 Best Cat Backpacks1. PetAmi Premium Pet Carrier Backpack Best Overall Check Price on Chewy Check Price on AmazonBrand:PetAmiDimensions:11.5L x 9W x 16HColor:Black, Heather Charcoal, Heather Gray, Light Blue, Royal Blue, Pink Purple, RedThe PetAmi Premium Pet Carrier Backpack is the best cat backpack and comes in eight different colors. The other special feature is the included collapsible water bowl. It can only hold pets that weigh less than 12 pounds but has a sturdy base. The mesh panels on the sides are there to make the interior breathable, but the door is small and located at the top.Its bedding lining is made with sherpa (a sheep-like fluffy fabric) to always ensure your pet is comfortable. That lining is detachable, so you can throw it into the washing machine as needed.Your security concerns were taken into consideration, and thats why they added a chest safety strap on top of the padded shoulder straps. Youll also find a tether in there, with a tiny hook that attaches to your pets collar. The construction material is 600D high-grade polyester, meaning this product is durable and very easy to clean.We loved that it has side pockets, but they have no closures. Its easy for items to get lost even if they are small enough to fit inside.Pros Features a collapsible water bowl Sturdy base Breathable interior Detachable lining DurableCons Side pockets dont have zippers Small door2. Jespet Cat Carrier Backpack Best Value Check Price on Chewy Check Price on AmazonBrand:JespetDimensions:13L x 12W x 17HColor:Smoke Gray, Blue, BlackWhat we love about the Jespet Cat Carrier Backpack is that it is the best cat backpack for the money. If youre working with a budget, this is a more cost-effective alternative. You can either get it in black, gray, or blue, and they are all available in the same size.It has mesh panels on the sides to ensure your pet gets enough air to breathe, and a large door at the front. The interior is spacious, even though it doesnt seem like it from the outside, but it can only accommodate cats that weigh less than 16 pounds. A heavier breed will force the bottom section to sag, and thats not a comfortable feeling for the occupant.The two side pockets provide extra space for anyone planning to carry toys or other accessories, and the polyester material used in construction is supposed to address any durability concerns. Its yet another versatile product that can be used as a carrier, with a padded top handle for convenience.The shoulder straps will come padded, but there are no wheels at the bottom. In other words, it is not designed to function as a roller bag.Pros Great value for money Two side pockets Well-ventilated Durable Features padded straps and a top handleCons Has no wheels3. Snoozer Pet Products Cat Backpack Premium Choice Check Price on Chewy Check Price on AmazonBrand:SnoozerDimensions:11L x 14W x 20H; 12.25L x 15.5W x 23HColor:Red, BlackThe Snoozer Pet Products Roll Around Cat Carrier Backpack is pricey but is a multifunctional option. And we love thiswho wouldnt want a product that can serve as a pet bed, car seat, backpack, or carrier on wheels? In addition, it comes in two sizes. Theres the medium iteration that can only accommodate pets that weigh up to 15 pounds and a large one that can carry any pet thats not heavier than 30 pounds.Depending on your color preference, you can get the pack in red or black. The mesh installed on all three sides is to facilitate ventilation while giving your pet a nice view of the world on your travels. Its shoulder straps are padded to maintain balance, and the multi-stage telescoping handle is there to make moving the luggage much more manageable.Inside, youll find a microfiber pad for enhanced comfort, but its not detachable. So, if for some reason you feel the urge to wash it, youll have to be ready to wash the whole bag. As expected, the construction material is durable, the front door is large, the bottom section is sturdy, and the sides have pockets for extra storage.Pros Versatile Comes in different sizes Well-ventilated Microfiber padded interior Padded shoulder straps Sturdy baseCons Pricey4. Gen7pets Geometric Roller Cat Carrier Backpack Check Price on Chewy Check Price on AmazonBrand:Gen7petsDimensions:15.5L x 8.5W x 13.5H; 15L x 9W x 16HColor:RedThe one feature that we really loved on the Gen7Pets Geometric Roller Backpack was the Smart-Level Platform. Thanks to this, you dont have to think about your bag tipping over while being wheeled around. Plus, this backpack comes with an extendable handle and padded shoulder straps.The interior has comfort pads to make the trip more comfortable, and they can be detached and washed separately. This product is only available in red, but it only comes in one size.Its worth noting that the Gen7Pets Geometric Roller Cat Carrier Backpack has two front doors, though theyre comparatively smaller in size. The windows on the sides are made of breathable mesh to boost ventilation, and the seat belt strap is meant to keep your fur baby secure. The two side pockets provide extra storage, in case you feel the need to carry other things.Be careful while closing or even opening the zipper, as it can easily get stuck in your cats fur. And if youre planning to fly to your destination, wed advise you to go with the smaller version or a different backpack. The large one doesnt meet airline requirements.Pros Has a Smart-Level Platform Extendable handle Comes in different sizes Two front doors Well-ventilatedCons May not be airport-approved5.Pet Gear I-Go Plus Traveler Cat Backpack Check Price on Chewy Check Price on AmazonBrand:Pet GearDimensions:16L x 13.5W x 22HColor:Black, Ocean BlueThe Pet Gear I-GO Plus Traveler Cat Backpack is large enough to accommodate small, medium, and larger breeds, given its dimensions. Youll be investing in a versatile product that can be used as a pet carrier, roller bag, car seat, or backpack. To top that off, it has an adjustable telescope handle should you decide to only use it as a roller bag.Theres a tether inside to ensure your cat doesnt slip out unnoticed, and a soft fleece liner to guarantee comfort and a relaxing setting. The pad is detachable, in case youre wondering, so you could just toss them in your washing machine anytime you feel like they are due for a wash.The two side pockets are meant to give users more storage room, while the padded straps are designed to ensure the pack is well-balanced over your shoulders.Will it be able to withstand the test of time? Yes, as the fabric used in construction is a tough one. It also has breathable mesh panels, bottom wheels, a relatively large front door, and a top handle for convenience.The Pet Gear I-GO Plus Traveler Cat Backpack comes in black or ocean blue, and the design is airline-approved.Pros Versatile Spacious Airline-approved Sturdy base Durable Telescopic handleCons Some customers reported a strange chemical smell6. Pawaboo Pet Carrier Backpack Check Latest PriceBrand:PawabooDimensions:7L x 10.4W x 0.5HColor:Black, Blue, Blue Marble, Blue & White Stripes, Blue, Pink, Red, Purple, Purple Marble, Gray, Deep Camouflage BlackThe Pawaboo Pet Carrier Backpack is uniquely different from all the above designs. They clearly wanted to offer the market a product that employed a more hands-on approach, seeing as it comes with elastic closings, a zipper, and a hook and loop. The shoulder straps are padded, as youd expect, but the quick-release buckle is definitely something were not used to. It was a pleasant surprise, as it makes it easier to release your cats using one hand.The other incredible feature is that the polyester material makes it durable, and the design makes it wearable on the front and back. The only drawback is that your pet wont be as comfortable as it would be in a typical carrier.Pawaboo caters to different pet needs, and thats why this product can be found in small, medium, large, and extra-large sizes. They also took into account the fact that consumers have conflicting tastes and preferences, thus releasing the carriers in over 10 different colors and patterns.Is this carrier suitable for an evening stroll? Yes. But can it compete with carriers designed for travel? Probably not.Pros Quick release buckle Durable Comes in different sizes Elastic closingsCons Not suitable for long travels7. Lollimeow Pet Carrier Backpack Check Latest PriceBrand:LollimeowDimensions:13L x 11W x 16.5HColor:GreenLollimeow Pet Carrier Backpack is the kind of carrier to go for if the plan is to get something that will give your feline pal a full view of whats going on outside. The entire door is transparent, and plenty large enough. This design is available in green, but can only hold a 13-pound cat or lighter. However, there are expandable styles that come in other colors as well.The material used for construction is easy to clean, durable, waterproof, and considered pet-safe. Speaking of safety, youll find a leash inside that can be attached to a collar, in case you feel the need to secure your cat. Theres also a mat for relaxing, but its not detachable.Even though this is a lightweight product, the fact that the straps are not well-padded makes it uncomfortable to wear. Whats more, we noticed the ventilation is not that great, as the design only provides two mesh holes for air.Closing the carrier after placing the cat inside can be a challenge, especially if your cat is not willing to cooperate. Thats because the zipper has been set up in such a way that it has to run around the entire front.Pros Easy to clean Awesome visibility Durable Waterproof LightweightCons Shoulder pads not well padded Mat not detachable Not easy to close Not well-ventilated8. Petsfit Cat Backpack Carrier Check Latest PriceBrand:PetsfitDimensions:13L x 10W x 16HColor:GrayThe Petsfit Cat Backpack Carrier has a 15-pound carrying capacity and is made using a material that is lightweight but durable. Its also eco-friendly, and the prime reason why this product made it to our list. Ventilation is not an issue, as the mesh on the sides is wide enough to let in sufficient air. We do have a problem with the door, though. Its great that it doubles up as a window, but it is very small.The measurements listed on the package are those of the exterior surface and not the interior. So, the interior is way smaller than advertised and thus cant comfortably accommodate any pet thats over 8 pounds.The other drawback is that theres no padding or mat on the base, and you only get one small storage pocket.Pros Lightweight Durable Eco-friendly Well-ventilatedCons Only one storage pocket Small door No mat on the base Not spacious enoughBuyers Guide: Choosing the Best Cat BackpackRemember, the ultimate goal is to invest in something that makes any outdoor adventure or traveling experience fun and memorable for your tabby pal. This section will primarily focus on the factors that we consider to be important while making your choice.Safety FeaturesWhat kind of features does the design have to ensure your cat wont sneak out while youre not looking? A premium quality backpack should at least come with reliable anti-escape zippers, in addition to the tethers, buckles, and leashes that are supposed to be attached to the pets collar.Image By: Pencil case, ShutterstockComfortWere not just talking about your comfort, but that of the cat as well. Always go for backpacks that have sturdy bases, with mats to provide cushioning. Designs that have internal frames should be at the top of your list of considerations, as they are meant to facilitate stability while preventing sagging.Visibility & VentilationThe whole point of organizing an adventure is to see and interact with the world. Thats why visibility is an essential aspect here. Your cat will want to see whats going on around them, as theyll be able to hear noises and movements.Proper ventilation is a necessity, as it helps them not only access fresh air but also feel relaxed. Backpacks with adjustable mesh openings are preferable since they give one the option to make adjustments based on the situation at hand.DurabilityFrom our experience, reinforced nylon and high-density polyester are the most durable backpack materials on the market. And this is especially important if you are a parent to a large breed. The bag should also have reinforced stitching, or it wont be able to withstand wear and tear over time.Dont forget to check the materials waterproofing ability, because the backpack has to protect your fur baby from spills or rain.Image By: Nils Jacobi, ShutterstockSize & Weight CapacityYoull have to check the length, width, and height dimensions to be sure your cat can lay down, stand, and turn around without feeling restrained. If the design is not spacious enough, your cat will feel cramped.Compare the products weight recommendations with that of your feline pal. Always add a few extra pounds during your estimations to prevent the base from sagging from excessive pressure being exerted downwards.How We Selected Our List of Cat BackpacksCatster has an experienced, expert team of writers, editors, and veterinarians who carefully consider a wide range of parameters when choosing the cat backpacks. This includes but is not limited to customer reviews, brand reputation, veterinary experience, hands-on testing, and of course, our cats have a say in the process too! We aim to select and review only the best products available, to help you make the best possible choice and most informed decision for your and your cats needs.Why Trust Catster?A trusted online brand since 2001, Catster has a lot of experience with cat backpacks. Our team of cat-loving writers, editors, and veterinarians is dedicated to helping you make the best decision for your precious cats. Our aim is to provide the best information available for cat owners to help cats live their best life possible. To do this, we scour reviews from the most trusted sources available and this, combined with our veterinary teams experience and expertise, helps us gather the best options available to readers. Our team is deeply invested in the health and welfare of cats the world over, and believes that expert knowledge and veterinary guidance will help you make the right choicesfor you and your cats!ConclusionWell wrap this up by reminding you what our top three picks are. The Pet Gear I-GO Plus Traveler Cat Backpack took the top spot because it catered to our pets every need. But if youre interested in investing in a product that promises value for money, the Jespet Cat Carrier Backpack is a great choice. Our premium option was the Snoozer Pet Products Roll Around Cat Carrier Backpack, as it offers premium quality for your feline.You might want to check out:Travel Cat The Navigator Convertible Cat Backpack Review: A Detailed LookFeatured Image Credit: Creative Cat Studio, Shutterstock

Welcome to our Ask Dr. Paola series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their cats health and well-being. Whether youre a new pet parent or a seasoned cat lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your kitty happy, healthy, and feline fine. Stay tuned for expert guidance on a range of topics that matter most to you and your cat, so you can make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your furry companion. Have a question? Send it in here!Help! Is Anyone Researching the Explosion of Hyperthyroidism in Cats?Dear Dr. Paola,Is anyone researching the explosion of hyperthyroidism in cats? Do feral cats get this? Or is this a modern indoor cat phenomenon that can be attributed to environmental or dietary factors, or excessive X-rays or EMF? BonnieHi Bonnie,Your question touches on a crucial and still-evolving area in feline medicine. Feline hyperthyroidism, first recognized in the late 1970s, has indeed become one of the most common endocrine disorders in aging cats. The increase in cases over the past few decades has prompted extensive research, and while no single cause has been identified, current evidence points to a multifactorial origin, largely affecting companion cats rather than feral populations.Feral cats rarely live into the age range where hyperthyroidism typically develops, which is usually over 10 years. This means they may not survive long enough for the disease to become clinically apparent, making it difficult to directly compare incidence rates. However, the condition is predominantly observed in well-cared-for indoor cats, which supports the theory that environmental and dietary exposures may play a significant role. Several studies have identified possible contributing factors, including chronic exposure to flame retardants like PBDEs (polybrominated diphenyl ethers) commonly found in household dust and furniture, as well as the long-term use of canned foods, particularly those containing fish-based ingredients or stored in pop-top cans with bisphenol A (BPA) linings.There is currently no strong evidence linking hyperthyroidism in cats to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) or diagnostic X-rays. While those concerns often arise in public discussions, peer-reviewed literature does not support them as causes. The more likely theory is a combination of cumulative low-dose exposure to thyroid-disrupting chemicals and age-related changes in thyroid tissue. Continued research, especially in environmental toxicology and nutritional epidemiology, is helping us refine our understanding.\For cat pet parents concerned about prevention, feeding a fresh, balanced, and iodine-controlled diet, limiting fish-based foods, and maintaining a clean home environment may offer some protective benefit. These are practical, science-aligned steps that may support thyroid health in aging cats, though well have to wait for further studies to offer more definitive guidance.Best,Dr. PaolaIf you'd like to talk with a vet, like Dr. Paola or one of our other expert veterinarians, you can head over to PangoVet. It's our online service where you can talk with a vet online and get the advice you need for your cat all at an affordable price! Catster reader exclusive deal: Save 65% on your first call, use code ASKDRPCATSTER65 at checkout.I Need Help for My Senior Cats Diet!Dear Dr. PaolaWhat would you recommend that I feed my wonderful 16-year-old male cat (part Maine Coon, part whatever), Shaka-Zulu? He continues to be in good health: climbs the stairs, jumps on furniture, etc., without difficulty, and is very affectionate and intelligent. He also communicates effectively with his humans.Id like to feed him the healthiest senior cat food available! PriscillaDear Priscilla,Shaka-Zulu sounds like a truly special cat, and its heartwarming to hear that hes thriving at 16. Supporting his continued well-being through diet is a wise and loving choice, especially as nutritional needs can shift subtly with age, even in cats who appear outwardly healthy.One important clarification is that the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) does not currently recognize a specific senior life stage for cats. Pet foods are formulated to meet either adult maintenance or all life stages, but there are no official nutrient profiles tailored to senior cats. This means that products marketed as senior vary widely in formulation, and the term itself is not regulated. Some of these diets reduce calories or phosphorus, while others include added supplements like antioxidants or Omega-3. The only way to know whether they meet a senior cats needs is to review their up-to-date medical information and match it with the foods complete nutritional profile and ingredient quality.Keep in mind that once cats reach their golden years, the recommendation is to have at least two veterinary visits per year to ensure any developing health issue is detected as soon as possible. Cats are great at masking any signs of disease, and especially in older cats, subtle internal changes can occur in organs like the kidneys, thyroid, or heart well before any noticeable signs develop. Therefore, we rely on diagnostic tests to detect them as soon as possible. Once you have that information, you can focus on choosing a food that best supports Shaka-Zulus specific needs.I hope this helps! Dr. PaolaHelp! My Cat Acts Like He Hasnt Been Fed in MonthsHello Dr. Paola,Why does my cat Curly act as though he hasnt eaten in months right after hes been fed? Hes a healthy weight, no health problems, just dire starvation vibes the moment his bowl is empty. SeanHi Sean,When a healthy-weight cat like Curly acts ravenous right after eating, its often a blend of natural instincts, diet composition, and sometimes even early signs of a medical condition. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are biologically adapted to thrive on high-protein, low-carbohydrate diets. Many commercial kibbles, however, are high in carbohydrates to maintain shelf stability and shape. While these diets meet minimum nutritional requirements, they may not fully satisfy a cats biological hunger cues. Curly might feel full in terms of volume, but not necessarily satiated the way a protein-rich meal would leave him. This disconnect can result in persistent food-seeking behaviors, even right after eating.Its also worth considering that while Curly seems healthy now, certain medical conditions can cause an increased appetite. One of the most common conditions in middle-aged to older cats is hyperthyroidism. This condition speeds up metabolism, making cats act extremely hungry while often maintaining or even losing weight. Diabetes mellitus and certain gastrointestinal disorders can also cause polyphagia, or increased food intake. If Curlys behavior is new or intensifying, a checkup with bloodwork is the safest way to rule out any underlying issues.Otherwise, if hes stable and youre simply looking to adjust his routine, consider a consultation with PangoVet to assess whether his diet and feeding practices are meeting his needs. We can help you determine if a more satiating food option or a slight change in his feeding routine might help ease those post-meal starvation vibes.Wishing Curly good health,Sincerely,Dr. PaolaThis article is a part of our weekly Ask Dr. Paola series Read last weeks questions here July 14, 2025 Find the full list of past articles here Click here to submit a question

In this articleWinnerSilliestMost DignifiedMost ExpressiveBest Action ShotSleepiestCutestEnter Your CatView 7More +Less -This Weeks WinnerName:ChunkBreed:Gray & white tabbyFun Fact:He has 2 window bird feeders in his(!) room so he tries to watch & attack both at once. My Chunky Monkey is a rescue & my sunshine and heart!SilliestName:ChaiBreed:CalicoFun Fact:Chai loves to be warm.Most DignifiedName:JeffBreed:RagdollMost ExpressiveName:JuniperBreed:Domestic Medium HairFun Fact:Juniper is a very silly, fun-loving cat. She was yawning in this photo but it looks like shes laughing, which completely fits her purrsonality.Best Action ShotName:OzzyBreed:TabbyFun Fact:Ozzy is very inquisitive. He likes to be everywhere we are. This picture shows how we were in the process of panting and he just wanted to join and cling the ladder too! Ozzy knows tricks, like sit, spin and up. Ozzy has also been in two commercials one for Temptations and the other for Greenies.SleepiestName:DownyBreed:Medium Hair Maine CoonFun Fact:Downy soft is his name and relaxing is his game! Downy is blind. He was born without eyes. He was the runt of the litter & barely survived being found in a dumpster with his 4 other blind siblings. He is the most loving, trusting cat you could ever meet.CutestName:TupacBreed:Norwegian forest catFun Facts:Tupac is a certified sweetie pie with a handsome face and fluffy tail. His two favorite things are his mama and gravy!Enter Your CatSubmit your kitty for a chance to be featured!Click hereThis article is a part of our Weekly Photo Contest View our previous weeks winners here: July 10, 2025 Click here to view our full list of past winners