No matter the age of your kitten or adult cat, it’s essential to know what food should be fed them. Certain foods can be hazardous while others offer essential nutrition for health and growth.
Switching your pet’s diet can be a challenge, especially for older cats with medical issues that could be affected by improper foods. But by following a feeding schedule, you can make the transition smoother and ensure its success.
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Meat
Meat is an essential part of any cat’s diet. Not only does it provide protein and fatty acids, but also essential vitamins and minerals essential for their wellbeing.
Meat can be safe to feed your cat as long as it’s cooked thoroughly and contains minimal fat. However, certain meats should be avoided completely due to potential health risks for cats.
Vegetables
Carrots make an excellent snack for cats, as they contain vitamin A and beta-carotene which help promote eye health. Furthermore, carrots provide plenty of water and fibre which aids digestion.
Cucumber is an ideal veggie to offer your cat as it contains vitamins C and K, minerals like magnesium, and plenty of water. However, only give your pet a small amount of cucumber at a time for maximum benefit; otherwise, cucumber should only be given occasionally.
Broccoli is an ideal food choice for cats, as it helps with constipation. To prepare it properly, the vegetable should be steamed or cooked and served in small portions.
Fruits
Fruits are an ideal food choice for cats as they’re high in vitamins, antioxidants and fiber. Furthermore, fruits help keep your cat’s digestion regular and healthy.
Blueberries are an ideal option as they’re low in sugar and packed with essential nutrients. You can sprinkle them over top of your cat’s food or give them as a snack or reward treat to add some variety.
Avoid offering apples with their stems, leaves or stones because they contain cyanide which can be toxic to your cat and lead to breathing difficulties. Slice them into small cubes or pieces and make sure the rind has been removed.
Bread
Bread is a type of food made with flour, water and yeast. It should be eaten in moderation; however, cats can safely consume small amounts in small amounts.
Be careful with unbaked yeast dough as it may produce ethanol alcohol, which is toxic for pets.
Healthy cats may enjoy some bread from time to time, but it should never exceed 10% of their total daily caloric intake. Doing this helps prevent weight gain.
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is an incredibly nutrient-rich food, packed with protein, B-complex vitamins, essential minerals and vitamin E. Additionally, it boasts good amounts of magnesium, iron and selenium as well.
Unless your cat has a severe allergy, they should be allowed to eat small amounts of peanut butter in moderation. However, always check the label on commercially available peanut butter to make sure there are no harmful ingredients listed.
Some peanut butters contain hydrogenated oils which may raise your pet’s blood cholesterol levels, making it unfit for consumption. The FDA requires these oils be listed on the label if they amount to more than 0.5 grams of trans fat per serving.
Bananas
Bananas are one of the world’s most beloved foods. Not only do they boast plenty of vitamins and minerals, but they’re also high in fiber content.
These foods are an excellent source of potassium, which may lower your blood pressure and protect against heart disease.
Bananas also contain high amounts of tryptophan, an amino acid the body converts into serotonin. This compound helps regulate sleep patterns and boost moods.
Pears
Pears are an enjoyable treat that can provide your cat with essential nutrients. Packed full of fiber, vitamins and minerals, pears can support her immunity as well as digestive health.
They’re an excellent source of vitamin C, which aids in wound healing and immune system functioning. Furthermore, their high potassium content helps lower blood pressure and enhance heart health.
Lettuce
Lettuce is an ideal treat for your cat, as it’s packed with water and can help keep them hydrated.
This veggie is packed with essential vitamins and nutrients like Vitamin A, potassium, folate, and iron.
Lettuce is high in fiber which can help regulate a cat’s bowel movement. Furthermore, it has low calories, making it an ideal snack choice for overweight or overweight cats who want to maintain their weight.
