macdack
Anyone who decides to bring a cat or cat home must decide what cat food is best for them. Most people do not realize that cats, like humans, need to be met. Let’s take a look at what your cat needs to stay healthy.
Cats are naturally carnivores. This means that they are consuming the most protein in their diet. When a cat hunts, it will get protein from the muscle meat of the animals it eats. This meat also provides them with taurine, an important nutrient needed to maintain good health.
The cat also needs to be well hydrated just like we are. They do not naturally drink much water. Wild cats usually absorb most of the required moisture from the prey. Cats need our help inside to make sure they get all the fluids they need. Always leave a fresh bowl of water to drink, but remember that this may not provide enough fluid during the day. Good cat food will help.
A good combination of wet and dry food is best. Canned cat food usually has a high moisture content of 75% to 78%. This is a great way for them to get the moisture they need to stay well hydrated. By providing about 3/4 of your diet in canned foods, you will maintain their good health. If you give an extra 1/4 of your dry food, they will help you brush your teeth and stay in good shape.
Choosing the right food is very important. Not all canned foods contain the nutrients needed to keep your kitten healthy. Check the label of the main ingredients. Chicken, beef or fish should be listed as the main ingredient. Check that the product does not contain a good amount of flour. Many manufacturers use smaller amounts, so read the label carefully and make sure that protein is a key ingredient. If the label states “formula” or “dinner”, it will usually contain a lower concentration of the main ingredient. Equally important is reading the label on dry foods. Many dry foods are high in plant protein. The cat’s digestive system is not designed to digest cellulose in plants. Look for high quality dry foods in the same basic ingredients as canned foods.
Protein should make up about 40% of your cat’s diet. Fat should make up about a third of it. This is why it is so important to choose high-protein foods as well as the right amount of fat. It is also important to check the carbohydrate level and source. Make sure the carbohydrate level is less than 50%. The main source of carbohydrates should be vegetables and rice, not corn meal. You also want foods high in vitamins and minerals such as omega-3, taurine and fiber. Look for foods that use natural rather than artificial preservatives. Vitamin C and Vitamin E are good preservatives and good for your cat’s health.
If your cat is accustomed to eating dry food now, introducing wet food can be a challenge. Never make drastic changes to your pet’s diet. New foods are introduced gradually. There are several types of wet food such as pasta, flakes and lumps. Texture is important to cats and is difficult to find. Experiment with different varieties to find the one you like best. When adjusting to wet foods, try adding a small amount of water to your dry food to increase moisture intake and reduce chipping.
Just remember that your cat’s health depends on their diet. If you choose a good combination of dry and moist food, your cats will be fine. It will give you many happy healthy years with your beloved fur friend.