For many people, cats are the perfect pet. Living with a cat is a lot like having a human roommate. Cats are low maintenance animals. You don’t have to walk them, bathe them, or groom them like you would dogs.
However, cats are quite particular when it comes to food. If there’s one thing you should do for your cat, it’s to ensure that you provide them with food that meets their particular nutritional needs. This is important to ensure your furry pal can maintain their energy level, physical health, and a healthy weight. A poor diet leads to shorter lifespans, reduced quality of life, and more health issues.
Whether you’ve had your cat for years or are thinking of adopting one, ensure you avoid the following mistakes when it comes to feeding your cat.
1. Feeding your cat scraps from your table
Many pet owners find feeding their pets scraps from the table to be an easy solution to providing their pets with food. However, it is essential to remember that, unlike dogs, cats have a narrow dietary range. While dogs can tolerate and even enjoy many of the foods that people eat, many cats can’t. They’re not likely to get all the nutrition they need from your table scraps.
A cat’s diet should prioritize proteins. Too many low-quality carbohydrates can lead to health problems such as weight gain and diabetes. Be careful to avoid feeding your cat raw scraps of food such as raw turkey or chicken. Raw foods may contain pathogens such as Salmonella, E. Coli, and even M. tuberculosis, which can cause tuberculosis in your cat.
2. Feeding your cat food meant for dogs
Another common mistake, especially amongst pet owners of both dogs and cats, is feeding them the same food. Dogs and cats have different nutritional requirements. Dog foods and cat foods have differences in the available amino acids and vitamins. Cats that are fed dog food often suffer dietary deficiencies.
It is best to buy your cat cat-specific food. Check to ensure that the food you buy is safe for your cat. You can read online reviews, research different products, or talk to your vet if you want more information about a product.
3. Feeding your cat too much
According to a recent study by the Association for Pet Obesity, at least 60% of the cats in America are obese. Insurance company, Nationwide, claims that 20% of the pet health issues reported in 2017 were related to obesity.
You can save your pet’s life and spare your pocket by giving your cat just the right amount of food. Read the recommendations for food services to know how much to serve your cat. Keep an eye on your cat to see if they are putting on weight. Increasing their activity levels can help in controlling their weight too.
If you’re unsure of what to feed your cat, be sure to talk to your vet. Follow their recommendations to ensure your cat has a healthy and balanced diet.
