Cats require a balanced diet to stay healthy. That means providing them with proteins, vegetables and water in sufficient amounts.
Recently, some cat foods have been in the spotlight due to their potential imbalance of vitamins and minerals or contamination with bacteria – something you don’t want your furry friend eating.
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Meat
Cats are true carnivores and cannot survive without eating meat. This instinctive behavior has been passed down through millions of years of evolution.
They feed on small warm-blooded vertebrate animals such as mice, rats, birds and reptiles, often devouring their prey’s remains after capture.
Cats in the wild hunt and consume their prey regularly, often up to 50 rodents or other small mammals annually. They do not consume the stomach contents of their prey however.
Vegetables
Vegetables are an excellent way to supplement your cat’s diet with essential vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. Plus they provide dietary fiber and moisture which can help keep their digestive tract healthy and prevent constipation.
However, some vegetables aren’t suitable for cats to eat. Tomatoes, for instance, can cause gastrointestinal issues when eaten raw. Peels, seeds and pits can all present choking hazards for pets so make sure you cut them into small pieces before giving them to your furry friend.
Fruits
Cats are carnivores and their bodies do not digest vegetables or fruits like other animals do. Nevertheless, some fruits can be safe for cats to consume when eaten in moderation.
Watermelon is one of the healthiest fruits for cats to eat. Not only is it packed with vitamin A, B, and C but also more than 90% water which will keep your pup hydrated.
Pineapple is another fruit that cats can safely eat. Unfortunately, it contains high levels of sugar so only feed your cat small portions after removing the skin and seeds.
Cheese
Cheese is a food derived from milk that comes in various styles, shapes, flavors and textures. It is created by coagulating proteins (casein) within the milk for easy production.
Cheese can either be naturally aged, or by adding a starter culture and an enzyme known as rennet. When done this way, the cheese becomes firmer and more tart.
Cheeses are an excellent source of protein and a nutritious snack for cats. Just be sure to feed them small amounts only if they enjoy it – too much can lead to digestive issues.
Dairy
Dairy products refer to foods made with or containing milk, such as cheese, yogurt and kefir. These items are high in calcium, protein and fatty acids.
Dairy products provide essential nutrients such as Vitamin D and potassium that support healthy bones. Unfortunately, dairy products often contain sugars and calories which may be detrimental to pets’ wellbeing.
Cats are lactose intolerant, meaning they cannot digest the milk sugar (lactose) found in most dairy products. This causes digestive issues and other health complications like diarrhea and vomiting.
Other Foods
Cats typically eat meat, but they also enjoy a variety of other foods like vegetables, fruits and dairy products.
Vegetables are an excellent source of vitamins, fiber and water for cats. Try giving your feline some steam broccoli, carrots, green beans or spinach to enjoy as a nutritious treat!
Cheese is another healthy option for your cat, but be sure to select low-lactose cheese as many cats have difficulty digesting dairy products.
Fish is an excellent food choice for your cat, provided it’s cooked or canned. It contains omega-3 fatty acids which may benefit arthritis, heart disease and kidney problems alike.
