Properly feeding your cat is the key to a happy, healthy life for your feline friend. The most important responsibility you have as a pet parent is to ensure the health of your pet. What is required in a cat’s diet, though?
The Cat: The Obligate Carnivore
When feeding your cat, it is crucial to consider the fact that cats are obligate carnivores. What does this mean? This means that they are strict carnivores and they rely heavily on the nutrients found in animal tissue to remain healthy. In the wild, cats eat high amounts of protein and obtain their nutrients from the wildlife surrounding them.
When feeding your cat, it is also important to understand there are certain vitamins and minerals he needs as well. This does not mean you need to supplement his food but means you should consider foods which already contain these important nutrients. A high-quality cat food should contain all of the necessary components for your cat to remain healthy.
Canned Food vs Dry Food
Canned cat food has a very high moisture content which is great for your cat. Canned cat food is often the most expensive for pet parents; however, since it contains high water content it is easily digested by your cat. Canned food also has quite a lengthy shelf life. Dry cat food only has 6-10 percent water which is extremely low. There are; however, some advantages to this cat food as well. For example, dry cat food is great for your cat’s oral health. Since the cat must chew the cat food, the teeth are utilized removing excess tartar and plaque. Learn here about the difference between organic and natural cat food.
When Should I Feed My Cat
How often you should be feeding your cat depends mainly upon your cat’s age. Kittens require more food to maintain their health than adult cats do. Most cats should be fed twice per day; however, if your cat is younger than one year of age, you should be offering food three times per day.
When feeding your cat, it is important to choose the right cat food. How do you do this? Well, you can start by determining what stage of life your cat is in. There is food available which is designated to each stage of life: pregnancy, lactating cats, adult cats, kittens and senior cats. This food is specifically designed for each cat.
Giving your cats treats is also acceptable as long as the treats do not overload your cat. Treats should not account for any more than 10% of your cat’s diet. If you give your cat too many treats, this could lead to obesity among other problems.
If you are unsure of any topics regarding feeding your cat, you should contact our pet nutrition/behaviorist for assistance. You can obtain assistance with what you are feeding your cat, how often to feed your cat and any other questions you may have. Learn more about the best diets for cats here.
Amber Johnson, Animal Behaviorist
Miss Amber Johnson has many years of experience with pets and is a licensed cat and dog nutrition and behavior specialist. She currently collaborates with PetPremium where she counsels clients in pet behavior and nutrition. The statements made in this article are the personal opinions of Miss Amber Johnson and based on independent experiences and could be different from the opinions of PetPremium Pet health Insurance or any other pet health insurance provider.
