Cat Nutrition: What Every Cat Owner Should Know

Cats, whether strutting their stuff on the street or lounging on your living room couch, are obligate carnivores. This fact, coupled with their unique physiological and nutritional requirements, shapes the approach we need to take in order to ensure they receive a balanced, age-appropriate diet. 

Understanding a cat’s nutritional needs can be complex, as they can differ substantially from our own dietary requirements or even those of dogs. 

This article will delve into the specifics of feline nutrition at various life stages, debunk some common misconceptions, and offer practical advice for feeding your feline friend a balanced diet.

Kittens

When kittens are first born, they rely solely on their mother’s milk, which provides them with the necessary nutrients and antibodies they need for growth and protection. As they begin to wean around the age of 4-6 weeks, they will start transitioning to a nutrient-rich diet.

Around the time they get microchipped at 10 weeks, kittens will require more energy-dense food given their rapid growth and highly energetic nature. Their diet should be rich in proteins to facilitate growth, fats to supply ample energy, and essential nutrients like calcium for skeletal development. Certain nutrients such as taurine – an amino acid that is vital for a cat’s heart health, eye health, and immune system – should also be included in their diet as cats are unable to produce enough on their own.

The feeding frequency for kittens should be about four times a day, tapering to three times when they reach six months of age, and then twice daily after a year old. It’s also important to provide fresh water at all times.

Adult Cats

Once a cat reaches adulthood, their energy requirements tend to stabilise, and their diet should be adjusted accordingly to prevent excess weight gain. Adult cats require a balanced diet that includes high-quality proteins, a range of vitamins and minerals, and a moderate amount of fats.

Portion control becomes crucial at this stage, and it’s recommended that meals be given twice daily. Some cats may have a tendency to overeat, so keeping an eye on their weight and adjusting food intake as necessary is important. Fresh water should continue to be provided at all times.

Senior Cats

Senior cats, generally those above 10 years, may start to show signs of age-related conditions like arthritis or dental issues, which can affect their diet and nutritional requirements. They often need a diet lower in calories but still rich in high-quality, easily digestible protein to maintain muscle mass. Increased amounts of certain nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids to support joint health and B-vitamins to boost overall wellbeing, can also be beneficial.

It’s important to monitor the weight and body condition of older cats closely, as they are susceptible to both weight gain and weight loss. Dental health should also be considered when choosing food; some older cats may find wet food easier to eat. Fresh water remains vital, and you may need to encourage intake if your older cat begins to drink less.

Common Misconceptions About Feline Nutrition

Myth 1: Cats Should Be Vegetarian or Vegan – As obligate carnivores, cats have dietary requirements that can only be met with a meat-based diet. They require certain nutrients, like taurine and arachidonic acid, that are only found naturally in animal tissues.

Myth 2: Cats Should Drink Milk Regularly – Despite popular belief, many cats are lactose intolerant. While kittens can digest their mother’s milk, they often lose this ability as they mature, leading to potential digestive issues when given milk.

Myth 3: A Grain-free Diet is Always Better for Cats – While cats do not require carbohydrates, they can efficiently use them as an energy source. Grain-free diets can still be high in carbs, and the avoidance of grains does not necessarily prevent food allergies in cats.

Guidance for Feeding a Balanced Diet

When it comes to feeding your cat, a balanced diet is key. The best approach is usually a combination of high-quality commercial cat foods that are complete and balanced. Look for those that list a source of animal protein, like chicken or beef, as the first ingredient.

Feeding a mixture of wet and dry food can help provide variety and ensure that your cat gets the benefits of both. Wet food is good for hydration and can be easier to eat, while dry food can be beneficial for dental health.

Treats can be given, but they should make up no more than 10% of your cat’s daily caloric intake. Also, remember to reduce their meal size accordingly to prevent weight gain.

Conclusion

A cat’s dietary requirements evolve with their age and overall health. By being mindful of these changes and taking steps to meet their nutritional needs, you can help ensure that your cat stays happy, healthy, and purring for years to come.