Cat Nutrition Check

It is essential that your cat is fed a balanced diet and sometimes understanding your cats’ specific needs can go a long way in preventing health problems and deficiencies. A summary of things to keep in mind include:

Water

Ensure your cats have easy access to fresh water sources spread across your house. Water accounts for 60-70% of your cats’ bodyweight. Cats are designed to obtain most of their water intake through food, unlike dogs, cats seem less sensitive to thirst hence ensuring a water rich diet is crucial in preventing urinary tract infections and dehydration.

Food

Cats are obligate carnivores and need most of the amino acids found in meat to survive. Fats are considered to be the most concentrated form of energy and is vital for your cats organ function and provides protection from inflammation and viral infections as well as increasing the absorption of vitamin A, D, E and K. Animal fat is the best source for your cat, but supplementation with Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and krill oil, is also recommended.

A good practice is meal specific feeding as this helps cat owners to monitor their cats appetite and diagnose any eating disorders if any. Further, it helps prevent overeating which leads to obesity, one of the most common health issues with cats.

A good option while planning your cat’s nutrition, is to seek advice from the veterinarian, just as you would, from a qualified dietitian.