For a young cat’s body to develop properly and then remain healthy, it needs a series of essential nutrients. The shortage of certain nutrients intended for bone construction, muscle regeneration, or the formation of new nerve fibers could cause instability in the body. In addition, as a result of this nutrient deficiency, diseases and other health problems may arise. This post is aimed at showing you the Best food for cats.
So, what can a cat eat? The typical mouse that outdoor cats hunt consists of 85% meat, including lean meat, connective tissue, and organs. The remaining 15% consists of plant remnants in the gastrointestinal tract, as well as mouse bones and hair. In general, mice usually contain about 50% to 60% proteins, 20% to 30% fats, and 3% to 8% carbohydrates from the animal’s gastrointestinal tract.
This nutritional composition should be taken into account as a reference for domestic cat feeding. After some scientific studies, it has been shown that cats prefer foods that have a nutritional ratio similar to that of a mouse.Â
- Proteins
As carnivorous animals, cats require a high intake of proteins, as these are the most important energy providers. Animal proteins are the ones that are best digested, and lean meat contains a higher protein content than connective tissue.
- Carbohydrates
On the other hand, carbohydrate intake should be limited, but they are essential! Carbohydrates are part of dietary fiber and crude fiber, which are indigestible and help regulate intestinal transit. For this reason, cats should consume carbohydrates in moderate amounts because, otherwise, the organs responsible for eliminating waste substances, such as the liver or kidneys, become overloaded.Â
- Fats
Fats are essential for cats’ survival. Unsaturated fatty acids of animal origin, such as omega-3, are considered more suitable for carnivores than vegetable fats. Therefore, cats need animal-derived fatty acids.
- Vitamins
However, not all vitamins are the same, and cats need specific ones. It is also essential to differentiate between water-soluble vitamins and fat-soluble vitamins. The latter are stored in the cat’s adipose tissue, and an excessive amount of them can be dangerous for the cat’s health.Â
- Minerals
Nutrients are equally important. Unlike vitamins, minerals are inorganic and are mostly found in the form of ions or inorganic compounds. Therefore, they are generally not sensitive to heat and, consequently, are not destroyed by cooking. It is worth noting the difference between macrominerals and trace elements: macrominerals such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and chloride are needed in higher doses than trace elements such as iron, copper, zinc, manganese, iodine, and selenium.
Attention: Due to the high temperatures reached during the manufacturing of cat food, a large portion of nutrients is lost. To compensate for this loss, they are enriched with vitamin supplements and other minerals.
Cat Food: Feeding Methods
With this information, you now have a better understanding of what your cat needs to stay healthy. But how can you put all this information into practice? What cat food specifically contains the nutrients that your kitty needs?
Firstly, there is no “perfect” cat food. Whether you choose pre-packaged food, homemade food, or raw food, all feeding methods can be good or bad depending on how they are implemented.
Pre-packaged Food
It doesn’t matter if it is wet food or dry kibble: pre-packaged cat food is conveniently preserved in cans or trays. This is probably the most common, practical, and easy way to feed cats. Owners can choose between wet food or dry kibble. Choosing the best type of food for your cat may seem like a matter of faith at times, but it is better to rely on your eyes.
Dry Kibble or Wet Food
While wet food is more aligned with cats’ natural diet, this moisture is not found in dry kibble. This results in a higher concentration of the cat’s urine, which can lead to the formation of kidney and bladder stones. During the manufacturing process of dry kibble, plant-based products such as potatoes, peas, or alfalfa are added. Additionally, grain-free kibble contains up to 50% carbohydrates, of which cats only need a small portion. This overloads their urinary organs. However, wet food is the one that best suits cats by nature.
Conclusion:
When it comes to the best food for cats, understanding their nutritional requirements and choosing the right feeding method is essential. Whether you opt for pre-packaged food, homemade meals, or a raw diet, prioritize high-quality ingredients and ensure a balanced diet for your feline companion. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the most suitable food choices for your cat’s specific needs.
NOTE: We are not animal health experts or nutritionists, the information above is gotten from different sources on the web and also advice from certified veterinary doctors. Consult your vet doctor in case your pets need a different kind of food.