Cats are cherished pets due to their beauty, dense fur, playful nature, and cleanliness. They are excellent hunters of mice, which makes them popular for keeping homes rodent-free.
Cat Nutrition
Feeding a cat can be a concern for both new and experienced owners. Here are some guidelines to address common questions about cat nutrition.
Unlike dogs, cats are obligate carnivores and primarily eat meat. Their bodies are adapted to digesting high-protein, moderate-fat, and low-carbohydrate diets. Cats lack salivary amylase, an enzyme that breaks down plant-based starches, making it difficult for them to digest carbohydrates efficiently.
Essential Nutrients
- Taurine: An essential amino acid for vision, heart function, and reproduction. Cats cannot produce taurine, so it must be provided through meat.
- Calcium: Important for bone health. If cats do not consume bones and organ meats, supplement their diet with bone meal and taurine powder.
Diet Composition
A balanced diet is crucial for cats, just as it is for humans and livestock. A cat’s primary diet should consist of 80% muscle meat, 10% organ meat (half liver), and 10% bone.
Daily Caloric Needs
An average cat weighing 3-4 kg requires about 240 calories per day. This can vary based on age, activity level, metabolism, reproductive status, and hunger.
Feeding Schedule
- Kittens: Active and growing quickly, need to be fed frequently, up to four times a day.
- Adult Cats: Can be fed 1-2 times a day as they can store more food in their stomachs.
Obesity in Cats
Obesity is a common issue in cats, leading to diabetes, respiratory problems, heart diseases, and muscle disorders. Overfeeding and high-calorie diets are the main causes. Consult a veterinarian to develop a weight reduction plan if needed.
Dry Food vs. Wet Food
Dry pet food contains both animal and plant proteins, which may not be suitable for cats. Feeding dry food can lead to diabetes, kidney issues, blockages, and infections. It’s better to avoid feeding plant-based proteins like lentils and peas.
Water Intake
Ensure cats have access to fresh water. Proper hydration is vital for nutrient absorption and kidney function. Wild cats get most of their water from prey, which contains 70-75% water, whereas domestic cats’ food typically contains only 7-10% water.
Cats generally prefer running or moving water. Therefore, using water fountains can encourage them to drink more.
Important Feeding Tips
- Meat Over Processed Food: Raw meat and bones are better than dry or processed food. This helps keep their teeth clean and strong.
- Avoid Human Food: Do not feed cats human food, especially onions, garlic, grapes, sweets, chocolate, and coffee, which are harmful to them.
- Ensure Balanced Diet: Provide a diet rich in animal protein, with minimal plant protein (no more than 10%).
These guidelines help ensure that your cat stays healthy, happy, and active. Proper nutrition and care are essential for their well-being.
Dr. M. Malarmathi, Veterinary College, Namakkal, Dr. A. Yashoda, Veterinary College, Udumalpet, Dr. V. S. Vadivu, Veterinary Training and Research Center, Erode.
