Cats are carnivores and require high-quality proteins and animal fats in their diet. Unfortunately, cats cannot digest carbohydrates well, leading to diseases like diabetes or obesity.
To guarantee your cat is getting the right nutrients, opt for a food with an AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement. This type of food will be tailored to meet specific requirements based on your cat’s age and health.
Contents
Meat
Cats are true carnivores, meaning they need protein for survival. Additionally, cats require certain nutrients from meat that cannot be obtained from plants such as taurine.
Cats should only consume small amounts of cooked beef, chicken, turkey and lean deli meats. Avoid raw or spoiled meat as this may lead to food poisoning in cats.
Fish
Cats require protein for strong hearts, clear vision and a healthy reproductive system. Cooked beef, chicken, turkey or small amounts of lean deli meats are excellent sources of this vital nutrient.
Fish is packed with omega-3 fatty acids which can benefit cats’ eyesight, joints and brain function. But remember – never feed your cat raw fish as this could deplete essential vitamins from their diet.
Eggs
Eggs are an excellent source of protein for your cat. Additionally, they contain essential vitamins and minerals that keep your feline friend healthy.
Cat treats are generally safe, but should not be given as a frequent snack. Eating too many treats may lead to weight gain, obesity and other serious health issues if consumed too frequently.
Vegetables
Vegetables can be beneficial to cats when eaten in moderation, but should never form the bulk of their diet. As cats are obligate carnivores, they cannot digest vegetables and must get most of their nutrition from meat-based sources.
Vegetables such as carrots, peas and green beans are safe for cats to eat in small amounts. Broccoli and spinach also make great treats; however they should be cooked before feeding them.
Lettuce
Lettuce is an ideal option for cats that enjoy nibbling on plants. It has low toxicity and choking risks, making it a safer alternative than other indoor or outdoor plant choices.
Lettuce is packed with nutrients like potassium and phosphorus, which help regulate fluid levels within the body and lower the risk of salt poisoning. Furthermore, these minerals promote eye health as well as cell growth.
Grains
Grain is often added to cat food in order to give them bulk. It provides essential nutrients like fiber and easily digestible protein.
Grains are an excellent source of soluble fiber, vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids for your cat. Not only that but they provide easily digestible protein and energy too!
Oats
Oats are an excellent source of fiber for cats, as well as providing them with plenty of Vitamins B, E and iron as well as folic acid.
Oats are an excellent source of vital minerals like zinc for strong bones, teeth and nails as well as manganese to support bone health and thyroid function.
Coarse Bones
Coarse bones are an excellent source of calcium for cats, as well as a way to add variety to their diet. Just be sure to select the appropriate bone according to your cat’s size and needs!
Raw meaty bones provide your cat with an appropriate calcium source and are soft, pliable, and easy to chew. Steer clear of cooked bones which become brittle and break into sharp fragments that could harm your cat’s teeth or internal organs.
Milk
Cats depend on their mother’s milk supply for essential nutrients that build their immune system and protect them against illness. During pregnancy and lactation, a cat’s food intake and weight may fluctuate slightly.
When facing times of increased nutritional need, it’s essential to choose foods with higher nutrient requirements than usual. Examples include protein and calcium.
Bread
Bread is high in calories and offers no nutritional benefit for your cat. Additionally, it contains carbs and other grains which can be detrimental to their wellbeing.
Though some cats may enjoy a bite here and there, it should never be offered as their main meal. Stick with treats instead, or offer it only occasionally.
