What to feed and what not to feed for your cats
Kritika Manchanda
Confused about your cat’s nutritional needs? Let’s discuss what all you can feed your cats and what are the human food safe to be fed to your cats.
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 food items that might be harmful for them. The foremost thing to keep in mind is that the nutrition needs and food habits of cats are different than that of a dog. So, you cannot make any comparison. Moreover each cat has her own taste and preference, just like we human, and you as a pet parent must know best what your baby likes to eat.
Carnivores’ eaters
Cats are carnivores by nature and love meat. Apart from meat and fish, you can give raw meaty bones like chicken neck, chicken wings, and drumsticks. Make sure the bone is large enough so that it cannot be swallowed at once. Also keep in mind feeding too many bones may lead to constipation.
Say ‘yes’ to these foods
These are some of the human food items that are safe for feeding your feline babies.
- Meat – cooked chicken, beef, turkey
- Fish
- Vegetables
- Eggs
- Whole grains – oats, cornmeal
- Cheese
Say ‘no’ to these foods
While you can let your cat be indulgent on any of the above mentioned food items, you need to be 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
- Alcohol
- Candies
There are various types of cat foods available in the market. The debate of dry food vs. wet food is never ending.
Ask the vet
Dry kibble is highly processed, has high carbohydrate content and very low water content. It might also be contaminated by bacteria and fungus. You can ask your vet what food to give your cat – dry kibble, wet food, or a mixture of two. Your vet would also be the best guide to tell you the amount of food to be given to your pet depending upon kitty’s age, overall health, weight, medical conditions (if any), and other factors.
Taste test
Once the food choice – dry or wet, and the brand, is 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. (Didn’t we tell you being a pet parent is a big responsibility). 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.
Set meal timings
It is important that you set meal timings for your pet and follow it. Usually cats like to eat small meals throughout the day. You can leave food for your cat and they can nibble it after a few hours. A few treats here and there would be greatly loved by your little one. But make sure that the treats don’t overpower their nutritious meals. Also too much of salty treats are a big no-no. Let the food bowls be full of goodness, topped with love and affection!