If your cat has a gluten sensitivity or you’re trying to transition them onto a grain free diet, there are plenty of delectable options available.
Wellness Kittles Grain-Free Crunchy Cat Treats in Salmon & Cranberry are budget friendly and safe for cats of any age. Plus, these treats contain nutrient-rich ingredients like salmon, peas, potatoes, chickpeas, chicken meal, herring meal, cranberries and blueberries – making them the perfect budget-friendly treat!
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What is gluten?
Gluten is an essential protein found in various grains such as wheat, barley, rye and oats. It plays a significant role in the structure of breads, pastas and other baked goods.
Gluten helps the dough stay together during baking and makes the bread dough stretchy and chewy. Without it, the bread would be brittle and easily torn.
People sensitive to gluten may develop celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder. This condition damages the villi of the small intestine and makes it difficult for the body to absorb nutrients from food sources.
Although a gluten-free diet isn’t required for cats, it’s still essential that they get enough protein. Cats are obligate carnivores and their guts cannot digest grains proteins, so meat protein must be part of their food intake.
Do cats need a gluten free diet?
Gluten is the protein found in wheat, barley and rye grains. When the starch from these grains is removed, gluten becomes a concentrated source of beneficial amino acids for pets.
Grains provide dogs and cats with essential energy, vitamins, and minerals for optimal wellbeing. Furthermore, they contain fiber which reduces the risk of digestive disorders like diarrhea or constipation.
The only exception to this rule occurs when a cat develops an intolerance to gluten. This may be due to genetic predisposition or simply from eating too much gluten in their diet.
Gluten intolerance can cause gastrointestinal and skin issues in pets, though it’s quite rare. To determine whether your pet has gluten intolerance or not, put him on an elimination diet for 12 weeks. During this time, he may experience symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea as well as fatigue.
What should I look for in a cat food that is gluten free?
If your cat suffers from digestive upset or food allergies, you might want to switch them over to a gluten free diet. This type of food is made without ingredients containing wheat, barley or rye – common sources of gluten.
Though many pet foods are gluten free, it’s essential to select a high-quality product. Look for recipes with quality protein and healthy fats.
Good protein sources come from animal-based sources like chicken, turkey, beef, fish or eggs. You should also look for antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables like carrots, apples, broccoli blueberries kale.
A low-glycemic diet helps your cat maintain stable blood sugar levels, avoiding the spikes and crashes that could lead to diabetes. Furthermore, this type of food is easier on digestion and urinary tract health; also ideal for cats with sensitivities to gluten or other ingredients.
What should I avoid in a cat food that is gluten free?
When searching for a high-quality gluten free cat food, look for ingredients that are primarily proteins. Steer clear of any cheap starches or fillers used as an alternative.
It is also essential to look for cat food that contains low amounts of carbohydrates. Grains are inexpensive ingredients often utilized by pet food manufacturers in large amounts.
Grain-free cat foods often include other carbohydrates like potatoes, sweet potatoes, tapioca, peas and lentils in addition to grains.
Carbohydrates can increase your cat’s weight, so it is best to feed them a diet low in carbohydrates. Additionally, look for high-quality grain-free cat food with an appropriate balance of protein and carbohydrates.
