Diet advice for a 13-year-old Burmilla cat

A 13-year-old Burmilla slowing down is completely normal — their metabolism shifts, muscle mass starts to drop, and kidneys need more support. Wet food is generally the better choice for cats because it provides hydration, keeps them feeling satisfied, and mirrors what they'd naturally eat. Cost and convenience are real considerations though, and a mixed approach can work well. Before I point you toward something specific: does your Burmilla have any diagnosed conditions like kidney disease or hyperthyroidism? And what are you currently feeding her?

That reduced appetite and lower activity is really common at her age, and dry food her whole life means she's probably mildly dehydrated — older cats are especially bad at compensating for that, which can quietly stress the kidneys over time. Switching to wet food now is genuinely one of the best things you can do for her. The challenge is that lifelong dry food cats can be stubborn about making the change. How does she respond to strong-smelling food? And is she on any supplements or medications at the moment?

Good — strong smell is your friend here, it'll make the transition much easier. For a senior cat in her position, I'd go with Applaws Senior Cat Food in broth. It's high in real meat protein, low in carbohydrates, and the broth format means she's taking in fluid with every meal, which is exactly what her kidneys need. The ingredient list is clean — no fillers, no derivatives — and the strong smell of tuna or chicken tends to win over even committed dry-food cats. Start by mixing a small amount in with her dry food and increase the ratio over two to three weeks. Her digestive system will need time to adjust after 13 years on dry.

Senior labelling is loosely regulated, so don't rely on it alone — what matters is high protein, low carbs, and good moisture content, which Applaws Senior delivers. On joints: Burmillas are reasonably robust, but at 13 a joint supplement is worth considering, especially if you're noticing her jumping less or hesitating on stairs. YuMOVE Cat is the one I'd suggest alongside the food change — it's a well-evidenced formula with glucosamine and omega-3s, and it comes as a sprinkle you add to food, which makes dosing straightforward. Don't start both changes on the same day though — do the food transition first, then introduce the supplement once she's settled on the new diet.

That's the right call. Give it three to four weeks before you judge whether she likes it — some cats take a little time. If she flatly refuses wet food at first, try warming it slightly to bring out the aroma. And given her age, it's worth booking a blood panel with your vet in the next few months even without symptoms; kidney function in particular can change quietly in senior cats, and catching it early gives you far more options. Good luck with her — 13 for a Burmilla is a lovely age.