Cat what do they eat

The bone must be large enough so that the cat cannot fit the whole bone into their mouth or swallow the bone whole. Avoid large marrow bones these have very thick outer rims , large knuckle bones or bones sawn lengthwise as cats may crack their teeth on these.

Fish, such as tinned sardines in springwater, tinned tuna and tinned salmon take care with any fish bones can be offered as a treat occasionally but please avoid feeding fish constantly because this is not a complete diet.

Cats may also be offered a small amount of finely-cut vegetable matter. Provide cats with access to grass avoid chemically treated grass and toxic plants. Cats will occasionally eat grass, which may be a source of vegetable matter and micronutrients. Basic cat feeding guide The following information is general advice, but as each cat is an individual, seek veterinary advice, particularly if your cat has any special dietary needs or has a reaction to a standard diet.

Feeding bones Raw meaty bones provide several important health benefits such as keeping teeth and gums healthy. Always supervise cats when they eat raw bones. Cats will never survive or thrive on a vegan diet.

They must have meat to get the nutrients they require. Fish contains high levels of fatty acids, which can lead to a vitamin E deficiency in cats and painful conditions. If in doubt, always ask for advice from your veterinarian. Importantly, never feed your kitten cooked bones. These may splinter and cause internal damage or obstruct the intestinal tract. Wet canned food or cooked meat is a good starting point. Sharing a slice or wedge with your kitty is very Gouda of you see what we did there?

They can be a healthy snack for cats, too, although they should only be a special treat due to their high sugar content. Lower in sugar and high in antioxidants, blueberries and strawberries are good fruits to share with your kitty… although probably not in a pie. Many cats enjoy small pieces of cantaloupe, honeydew or seedless watermelon.

Plus, melon is high in vitamins A and C. Your cat might nosh on some cooked carrots, but avoid raw ones as they may be a choking hazard. Skip the spice and just give your kitty the pumpkin. Pureed pumpkin has fiber and nutrients that can help with everything from constipation to hairballs.

You can also use them topically for skin problems. Kittens have small stomachs and high energy needs, so they need to be fed little and often. Remember to check their food and replace it four times a day. It is imperative they are fed specific kitten food which provides nutrients required for growing and is more energy dense. Your cat is an 'adult' when they are between one and eight years old.

Your adult cat needs to be fed once or twice a day, but some will regulate their food intake, so their daily ration can be left out, particularly if you give them dry food. Cats over eight are considered 'senior'. As your cat grows older, their nutritional needs change and you can buy special foods that cater for them. These foods may have less protein and a balance of minerals and vitamins designed to keep them in good health. But with so much on offer, how can you decide what is best for your cat?

Before you buy, remember to choose food specially formulated for cats. The best food for your cat unless they have special dietary needs is likely to be a complete cat food from a reputable brand. Your vet will be well placed to guide you to the best food for your cat. Homemade cat foods might be good for occasional treats, but it is very difficult to give your cat the right balance of proteins, vitamins and minerals your cat needs to thrive — unless this has been recommended by your vet.

Vitamin supplements could cause a dietary imbalance which could harm your cat — always speak to your vet about any food supplements first. Every cat-owner will be all too aware that cats love treats. Treats specially formulated for cats are a much better option than leftovers or raw meat, although a small amount of cooked chicken or fish is fine. Food enrichment puzzles and toys are great ways to keep your cat occupied as well as limiting their treat intake.

Alternatively, why not treat your cat to a little extra attention or play time? Cats need different foods at different stages of their life, which is why we recommend feeding an appropriate life stage diet. From specially formulated kitten food to senior, indoor and low calorie. Your vet might prescribe a prescription diet if you cat has a health problem, like kidney disease or joint problems, or if they are particularly overweight. Before you decide to try a new diet with your cat, is it always important to speak to your vet.

Cats are meat eaters, making vegetarian and vegan diets unsuitable for their needs.