Proper Diet for Cats

Cats are happiest on a diet high in protein.

Unlike humans, cats are obligate carnivores, meaning that in the wild they have a very strict diet based on meat. A diet high in animal-based protein is best for a happy, healthy cat.

Wet Food

Veterinarians now recommend that cats be given a diet composed primarily of high quality wet cat food to help keep the cat hydrated and to avoid too much carbohydrate intake. Compared to dry kibbles, wet food provides higher-quality proteins with more of the nutrients that cats need to survive. The water in wet food also helps cats stay better hydrated.

Problems With Dry Food

Dry cat food, such as the various kibbles available on the market, generally have much higher grain and plant content than wet food. Lower quality foods derive even more of their ingredients from cheap plant-based materials. Excess carbohydrate intake in cats can lead to feline diabetes, as well as a host of other problems.

Timing

Cats should be fed at specific meal times, rather than allowed free access to food at all times. Leaving food out can lead to feline obesity and, in multi-cat households, can cause competition between cats and may even leave one cat underfed. Water, however, should be available all day.

References

• Cat Info: Feeding Your Cat: Know The Basics of Feline Nutrition
• Cat Fanciers Association: Role of Diet in the Health of the Feline Intestinal Tract and in Inflammatory Bowel Disease