How to Choose the Right Food for Your Cat

Do you wonder if you are feeding your cat the right food? Did you recently bring a new cat into your home and want to choose the right food for its needs? Follow these guidelines when choosing cat food from your local market or store.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Take the time to consider the special needs of your cat or kitten. Is your cat younger or older, underweight or overweight, indoor or outdoor, active or laid back? Does your cat have medical conditions or a sensitive system? Does your cat have good teeth, a healthy coat, or a poor appetite? Is your cat finicky when it comes to food? All of these factors and many more can be important, in consultation with your veterinarian, in choosing the best food for your fancy frolicking feline.

2. Research the most recommended cat foods for your particular cat's needs. What does your veterinarian, friends, online groups, and others choose for their pets with similar ages, conditions, and lifestyles?

3. Read the back of labels when buying cat food from your local store to see what is really in the product. Don't rely only on the advertising, which can be deceptive. What are the first two ingredients? Are they meat, corn, by-products, wheat, etc.? Is it low in fat? What nutritional value does the cat food provide? Taking the time to find the best cat food for your feline friend may extend its lifespan.

Tips & Warnings

• Are you worried that your cat may not like the cat food you bought? Buy a sample size of the product and find out.
• Always seek the advice of a veterinarian or expert in making health and food decisions for your cat.