Whether you are a new cat owner or an old hand, it is vital to understand what you should feed your cat. It is important to feed your cat a balanced diet that is appropriate for their age, lifestyle and health. You also need to be careful not to overfeed or underfeed your cat. Having a veterinarian review your cat’s food can help you make informed decisions.
A healthy, meat-based diet is essential for cats. They need protein in their diet, and this can be found in meat. Human-grade raw meat is recommended. Other natural cat foods include fresh, human-grade raw meaty bones. These provide the necessary nutrients to keep gums and teeth healthy.
During the day, adult cats tend to graze, consuming a variety of small meals throughout the day. Depending on the breed, size and overall health, you may want to offer your cat at least four to five meals a day. During the night, your cat will eat smaller, more frequent meals. This is in line with their natural feeding pattern.
It is important to provide your cat with an adequate water supply. Your cat can become dehydrated and severely ill if it does not have access to clean, fresh water. In addition, you can increase your cat’s fluid intake by offering a wet diet.
You can also offer tinned fish as an occasional treat. However, tinned fish is not a complete diet, so it should be supplemented with the correct fatty acids. If your cat is prone to digestive issues, you may want to consider using a special dental food. The global Veterinary Oral Health Council has a list of products that reduce plaque.
Peas are a great snack for your cat, especially if it has trouble controlling its weight. They are high in fiber and protein, and contain only a small amount of calories. You can feed your cat frozen or fresh peas, or you can cook them. Be sure not to use butter or oil when cooking them, as these can be poisonous to your cat.
You should never feed your cat seasoned peas. Seasoned peas can cause gastrointestinal problems. If your cat is not a fan of peas, you can try other healthy cat treats.
It is best to give your cat a mixture of wet and dry foods. Wet foods are rich in fluids and can help maintain healthy urinary tracts. Providing your cat with a varied diet can also encourage your cat to search for food, which can lead to increased activity.
You should also be sure to read all instructions on any food you buy for your cat. Certain foods can be harmful to your cat, such as chocolate, garlic, grapes, onions, and bread dough. The RSPCA Knowledge Base has a wealth of information on animal welfare topics.
You should always consult a veterinarian for any questions you may have about your cat’s health. Your vet will be able to weigh and assess your cat’s health and body condition score.
