If your cat is overweight, it may be time to introduce a nutritious diet. Many commercial pet foods offer weight management formulas with just the right amounts of protein, fats, vitamins and minerals for cats of all ages.
A biologically appropriate diet that mirrors a wild carnivore’s diet is the recommended approach for feline health.
Contents
Meat
Meat-based diets are essential for cats, as they must remain carnivores. Meat not only provides them with essential protein but it can also promote strong heart, eyesight and reproductive systems.
Chicken, turkey and small amounts of lean deli meats are all beneficial options to include in your cat’s diet. Raw or spoiled meat can cause illness in cats, so make sure the meat is kept fresh and clean at all times.
Pork is a popular type of meat for humans to consume, but may not be the best option for your cat’s nutritional needs. Raw pork – particularly uncooked from pigs – contains bacteria which can lead to serious health issues in both humans and pets alike.
Fish
Fish is an integral component of many nutritious cat foods. Not only are they high in animal fat, which is necessary for cats and other carnivores alike, but they’re also an excellent source of protein.
They provide essential nutrients like taurine, which supports heart and brain health. Furthermore, these snacks are low in carbohydrates so you won’t experience the negative consequences associated with a high carbohydrate diet.
Cats’ nutritional needs require a diet high in animal-based proteins, low in carbohydrates and moderate in fat. It should also be abundant with water since cats typically get most of their fluid needs through food sources.
Vegetables
Vegetables are an essential element to include in your cat’s diet, particularly if they’re on a raw food diet. Vegetables provide your furry friend with essential vitamins, minerals and fiber which can benefit their overall wellbeing as well as aid with weight control.
Some vegetables, however, can be toxic to cats. Namely, onions, garlic, potatoes and tomatoes if consumed in large amounts or not prepared correctly will lead to internal organ damage.
Some vegetables, like cucumber, can be safely given to your cat if cut into thin slices or strips. Cucumber is an excellent source of potassium, magnesium, copper and molybdenum but should only be served in small amounts as too much may lead to diarrhoea.
Cheese
Cheese is a nutrient-rich food, offering protein, fats and minerals in abundance. Many hard block cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or aged cheddar can be stored and transported easily since they don’t need refrigeration to stay fresh.
Natural cheese is made with milk, salt, beneficial bacteria and an enzyme known as rennet. When these four components come together, they create a liquid which thickens and hardens over time.
When selecting wet cat food, look for one with at least 8-10% animal proteins. This percentage should be higher than the dry percentage since wet foods typically contain more water.
We also searched for affordable pet foods, so you can provide your cat with a nutritious diet without breaking the bank. Some pet food brands specialize in producing budget-friendly options with science-backed recipes – making them great choices for families on a budget.
Grains
A balanced cat food diet should prioritize protein and contain minimal carbohydrate sources. Carbohydrates can provide energy and help your cat maintain lean body weight, but too many of them may lead to organ issues, GI tract problems, and malnutrition.
Grains are high in carbohydrates, but they also provide essential nutrients like fiber and vitamins. Eating grains can provide a satisfying balance to a meat-based diet.
Start by scanning the list of ingredients for lean meats and fish, then check to see if there are any grains included. A grain-free diet can be ideal for cats with sensitive skin or intolerances to carbohydrates.
