To live long and healthy, a cat needs the right nutrition. Cats are carnivores because they need specific nutrients, which meat contains. These are taurine and arginine. Without these nutrients, they are at risk of serious health problems such as blindness or heart disease. It is also important to give cats the right amount of food to prevent obesity, arthritis or diabetes.

What to feed your cat

If you want to feed your cat commercial foods, then you need to choose ones that are labeled as complete. This means that they contain all the nutrients that your pet needs. If the food is labelled as complementary, then this means that it should only be given to your cat occasionally as a treat.

It is definitely important to choose a food that is appropriate for your cat’s life stage. Something different is needed for a small kitten and an adult cat. Of course, a senior cat also has different needs. Are you wondering whether dry or wet food is preferable? Unless the vet says otherwise, it basically doesn’t matter. She can be given one, the other or both.

Essential nutrients

Cats rely on nutrients found in animal products. Cats have evolved as hunters and want to consume prey containing high amounts of protein, moderate amounts of fat and minimal amounts of carbohydrates. Their diet therefore logically still requires these general proportions.

Of course, cats also need vitamins, minerals and fatty acids. Amino acids should not be lacking either. However, taking supplements is not necessary if you feed your cat a complete and balanced diet. Supplements could even be harmful to your cat. They should only be given with the approval of your vet.

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Cat diet rules

A cat should not eat human food. This is because most human food does not meet the nutritional needs of cats, and some foods commonly eaten by humans may even be poisonous to cats. An example is onions. Cats should eat several times a day, just like humans. Feed your cat every day and divide the portions into several small servings.

It is always important to read the instructions for the food you buy. The amount of food then depends on the age, but also the health and lifestyle of the animal. If a cat eats more food than it needs, it may be overweight. Conversely, less food than the animal needs may mean it is underweight.

Drinking regime

As well as food, a cat’s drinking regime is of course important. Make sure your cat always has fresh, clean drinking water available. She needs it to stay healthy and without water she could become seriously ill in just a few hours. Remember that cow’s milk is not suitable for cats, it certainly won’t replace the water they need. Plus, it contains lactose, which many cats find difficult to digest and can cause nausea.