Choosing the Right Nutrition for Your Cat
As pet parents, we all fall prey to that cute face and mushy eyes. Often, we succumb to #themcuties and unknowingly feed our feline companions’ foods that might be harmful to them. Don’t be confused! Let’s discuss what you can feed your cats and what human foods are safe to be fed to your cats.
– by Kritika Manchanda
The foremost thing to keep in mind is that the nutrition needs and food habits of cats are different. So, you cannot make any comparisons. Moreover, each cat has their taste and preference, just like we humans, and you as a pet parent would know best what your baby likes to eat.
Whisker-Lickin’ Good
Cats are carnivores by nature and love meat. These are some of the human food items that are safe for feeding your feline buddies – Meat, chicken, beef, turkey, fish, vegetables, eggs, whole grains, cheese, etc.
While you can let your cat be indulgent on any of the above-mentioned food items, you need to be super strict and steer them away from the following – Chocolate, nuts, grapes, raisins, raw eggs, onion, garlic, small pieces of raw bones, mushrooms, tomatoes, fatty foods, candies, etc.
The Purr-Fect Diet for Your Feline Friend
There are various types of cat foods available in the market. The debate about dry food vs. wet food is never-ending. Dry kibble is processed, has carbohydrate content, and very low water content. You can ask your vet what food to give your cat – dry kibble, wet food, or a mixture of two. He/ she would also be the best guide to tell you the amount of food to be given to your pet depending upon the cat’s age, overall health, and other factors like any medical condition, illness, etc.
Once the food choice – dry or wet, and the brand, are made by you, it is time for the taste test. Cats are known to be fussy eaters and if they don’t like the taste they might go on a hunger strike as well.
Just like humans, for cats also every calorie counts. In your love and pampering don’t overfeed your pets. This would be harmful for them in the long run, because weight loss in cats can be a major hassle.
Get, Set, Ready….
You must set meal timings for your pet and follow them as diligently as possible. Usually, cats like to eat small meals throughout the day. You can leave food for your feline friend and she can nibble it after a few hours. A few treats here and there would be greatly loved by her. But make sure that the treats don’t overpower their nutritious meals. Also, too many salty treats should be a big no-no.
Let the food bowls be full of goodness, topped with love, and affection!