Food plays a crucial role in health and welfare Your cat. Since cats are strict carnivores, their food needs are specific and it is essential to provide them with a balanced nutrition to keep them in shape, avoid deficiencies and prevent certain diseases. Here is a guide on better foods to ensure a healthy diet for your cat.
1. Croquettes: an adapted food base
The croquettes are the main food for most cats, and because they are easy to store, practical and generally balanced. However, not all croquettes are worth it. It is important to choose quality croquettes that meet the specific nutritional needs of your cat.
How to choose the best croquettes:
- Animal protein priority : Cats need a diet rich in protein from animal origin. Make sure that the selected croquettes contain meat or fish as the main ingredient.
- Low in carbohydrates : Cats do not need a large amount of carbohydrates in their diet. Choose cereal-poor or grain-free croquettes if possible.
- Good additions : Look for croquettes enriched in omega-3, in taurine (an amino acid essential for cats) antioxidants to support your cat's heart, eye and immune health.
Some brands renowned for quality croquettes:
- Royal Canine
- Hills Science Plan
- Purina Pro Plan
- Orijen (without cereals)
2. Wet food: essential hydration
The Pasta or wet foods are an excellent complement to croquettes, as they provide a water supplement, a crucial element for the health of cats, especially to prevent kidney and urinary problems. Cats, by nature, do not drink much water, and wet food compensates for this lack.
Benefits of wet food:
- Hydration : Wet foods contain about 70-80% water, which helps moisturize your cat, especially if it does not drink much.
- Appetence : The texture and aromas of wet food often make it more appetizing than croquettes, ideal for difficult cats.
- Rich in protein : Like croquettes, it is important to choose pastas containing mainly quality animal proteins.
Tips for choosing well:
- Opt for Pasta without artificial additives Not conservative.
- Look for products based on quality meat and avoid animal by-products of low nutritional value.
- Make sure the pie is complete and balanced, with some brands designed only as a dietary supplement.
3. Household ration: a natural alternative
For owners who wish to have complete control over the feeding of their cat, the Household may be an interesting solution. This involves preparing your own cat's meals, made from meat, fish, vegetables and food supplements. However, it is crucial to respect the specific nutritional needs of cats to avoid deficiencies.
Key ingredients for a balanced household ration:
- Meat or fish : The feeding base of a cat must be animal protein. Chicken, turkey, beef or fish (such as salmon) are good options.
- Food supplements : Cats need taurine, of calcium and other minerals that are not always present in sufficient quantity in a prepared diet at home. Consult a veterinarian to adjust doses.
- Attention to toxic foods : Some foods are toxic to cats, including onion, garlic, chocolate, and certain types of raw fish (such as tuna).
Benefits:
- Total control of ingredients : You know exactly what your cat eats, without additives or preservatives.
- Quality of ingredients : You can choose fresh and high quality products.
Disadvantages:
- Risk of deficiencies : It is difficult to guarantee that your cat receives all the necessary nutrients. Veterinary supervision is essential to establish balanced meals.
4. Sweets: How to integrate them healthily
The treats can be used to reward or simply please your cat, but they must be given in moderation. Too many treats can lead to weight gain and unbalance your diet.
What types of treats choose:
- Protein-rich foods : Prefer meat or fish treats without added sugar or too much fat.
- Health-specific foods : Some treats are formulated to help with oral health, digestion or control of hairballs.
- Limit quantity : Do not give more than 10% of your cat's daily calories as treats.
5. The importance of hydration
In addition to their solid diet, it is essential that cats have permanent access to fresh water. Internal cats, in particular, may not sufficiently moisturize, increasing the risk of kidney and urinary problems.
How to encourage your cat to drink more:
- Use a water fountain : Cats are often attracted to moving water. A fountain can encourage them to drink more regularly.
- Multiply water points Place several bowls of water in different rooms of the house so that your cat always has easy access.
- Complement with wet foods : As mentioned earlier, wet food helps compensate for lack of hydration.
6. Special diets: for cats with special needs
Some cats may have specific dietary needs due to health problems, such as obesity, allergies, kidney or digestive problems. In these cases, it is important to opt for a specially formulated diet to meet these needs.
Some examples of specific schemes:
- Food for sterilized cats : Sterilized cats often tend to gain weight more easily. There are croquettes and pies specially designed to help them maintain their shape weight.
- Food for cats with renal disorders : For cats with kidney disease, low protein and phosphorus diets are recommended.
- Hypoallergenic diet : If your cat suffers from food allergies, there are croquettes without common allergens (cereals, certain types of meat).
Summary table of cat food types
| Type of food | Benefits | To be preferred |
|---|---|---|
| Croquettes | Easy to store, balanced, nutrient-rich | Animal proteins as the first ingredient, low carbohydrates |
| Pasta (wet food) | Good hydration, high protein | No additives, quality meat, complete diet |
| Household ration | Total ingredient control, natural diet | Animal proteins, essential food supplements |
| Food | Reward or pleasure, oral health aid | Rich in protein, special treats for health |
| Special feeding | Adapted to specific health needs (renals, sterilization) | Croquettes and pâtées adapted to special needs |
Choosing a suitable diet is essential for health and welfare Your cat. Whether you choose croquettes, wet food or a home-made diet, it is crucial to ensure nutritional balance to ensure a healthy, long life for your companion. Do not hesitate to consult a veterinarian to ensure that your cat's diet meets its specific needs.
