Will Microwaving Cat Food Destroy Vitamins?

Some cats dislike cold canned leftover food.

Some cats prefer their food warm or at least room temperature. Microwaving cat food, especially leftover refrigerated canned cat food, may tempt the cat's appetite. Microwaving cat food will not remove the food's vitamins or other nutrients.

Encouraging Feeding

Very old cats or cats recovering from an illness often have decreased appetites. Microwaving canned cat food can help tempt the cat to eat.

Warning

Cat food can get scalding hot very quickly, which may burn you or the cat. Only heat the food for 5 to 10 seconds and then check to see if it is room temperature. If it is too hot, wait until it cools off before giving it to the cat.

Alternative

Another way to heat up leftover canned cat food and to tempt the cat's appetite is to add hot broth or gravy. Heat the broth or gravy separately and pour it on the leftover food.

References

• The New York Times: "The Claim: Microwave Ovens Kill Nutrients in Food;" Oct. 17, 2006
• FDA: Microwave Oven Radiation: Cooking with Microwaves
• Vet Info: Cat Taurine Requirements
• Drs. Foster and Smith: Cat Food FAQ: My Senior cat won't eat. What should I do?
• Pet Place: Thermal Burns in Cats

Resources

• Cat Info: Making Cat Food by Lisa A. Pierson, DVM
• Cat Channel
• Cat Be Good: Feeding Your Cat