Cats hold a very special place in our heart and we want to provide them with the best possible life. This means choosing the best cat food for the little one. It’s important to make responsible choices when it comes to what we put on their plate. You can affect your cat’s health and happiness significantly by knowing what to look for on the back of the food can. There are so many options available in the stores, it can be easy to get lost in the little text print of ingredients. In this article we will shed some light on the best practices in choosing the perfect option for your cat.
In the wild cats hunt for mice or try to survive off scraps they find. Our home companions deserve the best life we can provide to our ability. If your cat is fed the cheapest food found in the store, there is a high chance the ingredients are of low quality and it has fillers that irritate your cat’s intestines. Causing digestive problems later on for your cat. To ensure your cat will live a longer, healthier life, you should opt for food that has a high percentage of meat and protein. It is crucial to know what’s in the label of the package. There are many factors to consider when choosing the right food.
How Much To Feed A Cat By Age?
Kittens have lots of energy and would need food tailored for their rapid growth. When it comes to nutrition it would need to be high in protein, have essential amino acids (Omega-3, Omega-6), and minerals like calcium to support healthy bone development. Wet food for kittens and kibble needs to come in smaller sized bites so they can chew it. Adult cats need a balanced blend of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Senior cats have a different metabolism, they need less calories but increased fiber to support weight management and digestion.
What To Look For In Cat Food Ingredients?
Cat food labels can be a labyrinth of information, but deciphering them is crucial to providing your feline friend with the best nutrition. “Complete” cat food has everything your cat needs when it comes to nutrients. “Complementary” cat food does not have all of the nutrients like vitamins and should only be given next to their complete meals. A source of protein such as chicken, turkey, fish or beef etc. needs to be listed in the beginning. “Animal by-products” is a red flag.
This usually refers to low quality meat, bones, skin, and meat cut close to the bone that isn’t good enough for anything. It’s best to avoid the cheapest cat food brands because it often has fillers like corn, wheat, and soy. It is not ideal for our feline carnivores and can lead to weight problems and diabetes. Vitamins, minerals, and amino acids such as taurine should be present.
What Percentage Of Meat Should Cat Food Have?
Cat food needs to have a high percentage of meat and protein. According to AAFCO guidelines for cats, there needs to be a minimum of 30% crude protein for growth and reproduction. To be legally called a food that contains meat, it needs to have as low as 4% of meat. Many cheaper cat food brands are attractive in price, but the label screams otherwise. If a 85 gram wet food pouch only has 4% chicken, it is questionable what type of ingredients fill up the rest. The best food for your cat when it comes to wet and dry cat food should be made of at least 30-40% meat.
The higher that percentage – the better. Premium cat food brands usually list about 60-80% of meat in the label. Cat food that’s labeled “Complementary” often has a higher meat percentage, which is good to give to your cat in between their daily portions. A good example is when the package says “filets”.
Is Wet Or Dry Food Better For Cats?
Short answer is wet food. But it’s good to have both. Wet food is as close as the cat would get to its natural diet in the wild. Dry kibble can be good because it doesn’t spoil as easily as wet food. But kibble doesn’t have the needed moisture content for your cat. Feeding your cat exclusively dry food can lead to obesity and diabetes in cats. It’s important to make sure the cat has plenty of water or otherwise wet snacks to compensate. With wet food it’s good to monitor how long the wet food has been left out.
You need to remove the bowl after 1-2 hours to prevent bacteria growth and food poisoning. Splitting your cat’s wet food into several portions also works. Depending on your cat’s weight, an adult cat typically needs between 2-3 pouches a day or 2 pouches + 30 grams of dry food. Check out our honest review of the Nulo cat food brand.
What Is The Essential Ingredient In Cat Food?
Meat is a vital source of amino acids and nutrients that ensure your feline friend develops normally and has a healthy life. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, and they play a vital role in various bodily processes. Healthy fatty acids like Omega-3 and omega-6 are essential for maintaining healthy skin and a luxurious coat. Vitamin A supports vision and skin health, while vitamin D aids in calcium absorption and bone health. B vitamins play a role in energy metabolism and nerve function, ensuring your cat’s vitality.
Cat food containing fiber is good for your cat’s digestion, especially to prevent hairballs. Some cat foods include prebiotics and probiotics that support a healthy gut microbiome. These microorganisms contribute to digestion, immune health, and may even influence your cat’s behavior and mood. Calcium and magnesium are good for cat’s bone growth and for absorption of other vitamins.
Do Different Cat Breeds Eat Different Food?
Lastly you should consider your cat’s breed when choosing the cat’s food. Depending if you have a giant like a Maine coon or a long-haired Persian, it benefits to choose food tailored for the cat’s breed. The cat food may have slightly different levels of nutrients. For instance kibble for a maine coon will be larger in size to stimulate the jaw and it consists of more minerals and nutrients for joint-support.
Do Indoor Cats Need Less Food?
The amount of food your cat receives daily largely depends on the lifestyle and weight of your cat. Adult cats that live exclusively indoors tend to have lower activity levels and their portions need to be monitored to manage their weight. Likewise cats that roam outdoors will use up more energy and require higher levels of protein in their food. Cat food with labels mentioning “high-energy” or “active” formulas are designed to meet the needs of cats with active lifestyles.
What To Feed A Sick Cat?
Owners whose cats have underlying health conditions require special care when picking the right food. If your cat has any of the following conditions – diabetes, obesity, kidney disease, digestive issues or heart conditions, you should consult with your veterinarian first. Then look at the label in the cat food brand. Many cat food brands offer cat food specific to your cat’s health condition. But seriously, listen to your vet.
Understanding essential nutrients in cat food empowers you to prioritize your cat’s well-being. A balanced diet that includes high-quality protein sources, essential amino acids, fats, vitamins, and minerals ensures your cat receives comprehensive nutrition. By selecting cat food that meets these criteria and consulting your veterinarian, you are making sure your cat will live a long, vibrant, and fulfilling life.