Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require a diet high in animal-based protein for optimal health.
Deficits in nutrition can have serious health consequences, such as blindness, heart disease and gastrointestinal issues. Cats also lack essential amino acids like Taurine so it’s essential to feed them a high-quality meat-based diet to prevent these issues from arising.
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Animal-based protein
Animal-based protein is an essential nutrient in a cat’s diet. It provides essential amino acids for growth, reproduction and immune system health.
Cats, unlike dogs, are obligate carnivores – meaning they have an inclination towards meat as their primary food source. Additionally, cats cannot synthesize as many amino acids and vitamins from plant sources as do dogs or humans, leaving them solely dependent on meat sources for these essential nutrients.
High-quality pet foods offer a balance of animal and plant proteins to give your cat all the protein they need. Look for sources like beef, chicken, turkey or lamb when selecting your cat’s food.
Avoid foods that contain meat meal or by-products as these may not be the most digestible forms of animal protein. These ingredients are often used to make food cheaper but may be less nutritious. Furthermore, meat meal and by-products often contain antibiotics which may cause intestinal blockage or upset stomachs in pets.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are an essential energy source for many bodily tissues. Furthermore, they serve as building blocks in the production of essential body compounds and non-essential amino acids.
In general, a balanced diet for your cat should consist of carbohydrates, protein and fat. These nutrients work together to provide them with energy and ensure optimal health.
The most controversial debate regarding carbs in pet foods revolves around their potential link to obesity and diabetes. While some research has indicated a connection between dietary carbohydrates and increased risk for obesity, the evidence is mixed.
Healthy adult cats only need 10% of their food to come from carbohydrates, with the remainder made up of protein, fats and water.
Fats
Cats need a nutritious diet that includes high amounts of protein from meat or fish, amino acids like taurine and arginine (also from meat or fish), fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and water. Fats provide energy to cats in large amounts which helps them gain weight and remain healthy.
Fats are essential for maintaining a cat’s skin and coat. Furthermore, they keep their blood vessels supple, helping to avoid kidney issues.
Cats need two essential fatty acids: omega-6 and omega-3. Chicken fat and canola oil provide the former, while flaxseed and fish meal provide the latter.
These two essential fatty acids for cat health must be consumed together in the correct amounts. If a cat’s diet lacks one of them, it could create an imbalance that could lead to serious illnesses like inflammatory bowel disease or cancer.
Water
Water is one of the most fundamental nutrients for all living things. It plays a significant role in many bodily processes, from organ function to circulation and digestion.
Water is particularly beneficial for older cats and those with kidney disease or other medical issues that need more fluids. Dehydration can lead to bladder inflammation (cystitis) and urinary tract issues in cats.
To guarantee your cat drinks enough water, provide several bowls throughout your home. Make sure the water is always clean and keep these away from food and litter boxes for added convenience.
It can be challenging to get your cat to drink, but with patience and persistence you’ll eventually find what works best. A cat fountain or even changing the water bowl daily are two great options; many cats prefer moving water sources over static dishes.
