what do cats eat?

What do cats eat?

The simple question, "What do cats eat?", unveils a surprisingly complex answer. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are fundamentally designed to thrive on a diet primarily composed of meat. This isn't just a preference; it's a biological necessity. Their digestive systems, unlike those of omnivores like humans or dogs, are not equipped to efficiently process large quantities of plant matter. While a cat might occasionally nibble on grass (often to aid in hairball expulsion), their primary nutritional source must come from animal-based products. They require specific nutrients found abundantly in meat, and a diet lacking these vital components can lead to serious health problems.

Think of it this way: A cat's body is a finely tuned machine built to extract energy and essential nutrients from animal tissues. Trying to fuel it with primarily plant-based foods is akin to trying to run a car on water – it simply won't function optimally, or at all in the long run. The lack of essential amino acids, fatty acids, and other vital components found in animal protein will lead to various deficiencies and health issues, as we'll discuss later.

Food Type	Suitable?	Rationale
Meat (Chicken, Fish, Beef, Turkey)	Yes, Essential	Excellent source of protein, essential amino acids, and vital fats. Different meats offer varying nutritional profiles; a diverse meat intake is beneficial.
Commercial Cat Food (Wet & Dry)	Generally Yes, but read carefully	Formulated to meet their nutritional needs. However, quality varies greatly. Look for brands with named meat sources high on the ingredient list, avoiding fillers and artificial additives.
Dairy Products (Milk)	Generally No	Many cats are lactose intolerant and can experience digestive upset, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
Vegetables	Small amounts, occasionally	Can provide some fiber, but shouldn't form a significant part of their diet. Certain vegetables, like onions and garlic, are toxic to cats.
Organ Meats (Liver, Kidney)	In moderation	Rich in vitamins and minerals but should be given sparingly due to high vitamin A content.

What is the best diet for a cat?

Finding the optimal diet for your feline companion is crucial for their long-term health and happiness. There's no single "best" diet, as individual needs vary greatly depending on factors like age, breed, activity level, any pre-existing health conditions (like kidney disease or diabetes), and even personal preferences! However, a good starting point is choosing a high-quality commercial cat food formulated for their life stage. This means kitten food for growing felines, adult food for mature cats, and senior food for older cats with potentially slower metabolisms and different nutritional needs.

When selecting a commercial food, look closely at the ingredient list. High-quality foods typically list a named meat source (like "chicken" or "salmon") as the first few ingredients, indicating a significant proportion of actual meat. Avoid foods with vague terms like "meat by-products" or those heavily reliant on fillers such as corn, wheat, or soy. These fillers often provide minimal nutritional value and can contribute to allergies or digestive upset.

The ideal cat food is complete and balanced, meaning it provides all the essential nutrients your cat needs in the right proportions. Vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids are all vital components. While supplements can be considered in some circumstances under veterinary guidance, a well-formulated commercial food should ideally eliminate the need for most supplements.

Treats should be given sparingly, as overindulgence can lead to weight gain and nutritional imbalances. They should always be considered a supplement, not a replacement for a balanced diet. Remember to consult your veterinarian regarding any dietary concerns or changes, especially for cats with underlying health problems.

Food Type	Pros	Cons
High-quality commercial kibble	Convenient, relatively affordable, helps with dental health by encouraging chewing, often contains added fibre for digestive health	Can be less palatable than wet food for some cats, lower moisture content can contribute to urinary issues if not balanced with adequate water intake
High-quality commercial wet food	More palatable for many cats, higher moisture content is beneficial for urinary tract health, often richer in flavour and aroma	More expensive than kibble, less convenient for storage and can lead to messier feeding areas.
Raw food diets (with veterinary supervision)	Advocates suggest it is more natural and closer to a cat's ancestral diet; may offer better digestibility for some cats	Significant risk of bacterial contamination (salmonella, E. coli) and parasitic infections (toxoplasmosis), requires meticulous preparation and careful nutritional balancing to avoid deficiencies, potential for bone splinters if not properly prepared. Should *only* be considered under the strict guidance of a veterinary nutritionist.

Can cats eat dog food?

While a small amount of dog food is unlikely to cause immediate harm, feeding your cat dog food regularly is strongly discouraged. Cats and dogs have different nutritional requirements. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are specifically designed to thrive on a meat-based diet. They have a higher requirement for specific nutrients, notably protein and taurine, which are often not provided in sufficient quantities in dog food.

A prolonged diet of dog food can lead to serious health problems. Taurine deficiency, for instance, can cause heart and eye issues, and insufficient protein can result in muscle wasting and other complications. Always choose cat food specifically formulated to meet a cat's unique nutritional needs.

Nutrient	Importance for Cats	Why Dog Food is Inadequate
Taurine	Essential amino acid crucial for heart function, vision, and reproduction. Deficiency can lead to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and blindness.	Dog food often contains insufficient taurine to meet feline requirements.
Arginine	Essential amino acid vital for the urea cycle, necessary to remove waste products from the body. Deficiency can lead to serious health problems and even death.	Levels may be insufficient in dog food for cats.
Protein	Essential for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and maintaining a healthy immune system. Cats require a much higher percentage of protein in their diet compared to dogs.	Dog food protein levels may be too low to meet the cat's higher protein needs, potentially leading to muscle wasting and other health problems.
Arachidonic Acid	An omega-6 fatty acid important for skin and coat health. Cats cannot efficiently synthesise this fatty acid themselves and require it from their diet.	Levels in dog food may be insufficient for cats.

What human foods are safe for cats to eat?

While it's best to stick to their formulated cat food, small, occasional amounts of certain human foods can be offered as treats. Always ensure the food is cooked thoroughly and free from bones, spices, and other potentially harmful additives. Suitable options include small pieces of cooked, boneless chicken or fish (plain, no seasoning), and a tiny amount of plain cooked green beans or carrots. However, many human foods are toxic to cats, so it's essential to know what to avoid.

Never give your cat the following, as even small amounts can be dangerous:

• Chocolate (contains theobromine, toxic to cats)
• Onions and garlic (can damage red blood cells)
• Grapes and raisins (can cause kidney failure)
• Alcohol (extremely toxic)
• Milk (many cats are lactose intolerant, leading to digestive upset)
• Raw meat or fish (high risk of bacterial and parasitic contamination)
• Avocado (contains persin, toxic to cats)
• Xylitol (artificial sweetener, extremely toxic)
• Macadamia nuts (toxic)
• Yeast dough (can expand in the stomach and cause serious issues)

When in doubt, always err on the side of caution and stick to their regular cat food. If you're unsure about a particular food, consult your veterinarian.

Safe Food (in moderation)	Unsafe Food
Cooked chicken (boneless)	Chocolate
Cooked fish (boneless)	Onions and garlic
Plain cooked green beans	Grapes and raisins
Plain cooked carrots	Raw meat or fish
Small amounts of cooked, plain sweet potato	Milk (for lactose-intolerant cats)

What are the nutritional needs of a kitten versus an adult cat?

Kittens are growing rapidly and have significantly different nutritional needs compared to adult cats. Their diet requires a higher calorie and protein content to support their rapid development and growth. Kitten food is specifically formulated to meet these demands, providing the essential nutrients for healthy bone and muscle development, organ function, and a robust immune system. Choosing a high-quality kitten food is crucial during this stage of life.

Adult cats require a balanced diet to maintain their weight, muscle mass, and overall health. Their caloric needs are generally lower than those of kittens, and the nutrient ratios are adjusted to reflect their mature physiology. Switching to adult food is typically recommended around one year of age, but always consult your veterinarian for personalised advice based on your cat's individual growth and development.

Senior cats (generally considered to be over 7 years old) have their own specific nutritional requirements. They may have lower energy levels and different metabolic rates, potentially requiring a food formulated to support their aging bodies. These formulations often include ingredients that support joint health and digestive function. Weight management is also crucial in older cats to prevent the development of age-related conditions.

Life Stage	Dietary Needs	Key Considerations
Kitten (0-1 year)	High-calorie, high-protein diet with increased levels of essential fatty acids and minerals for bone and muscle development.	Ensure high-quality kitten food and avoid switching too soon to adult food. Monitor growth and weight.
Adult (1-7 years)	Balanced diet maintaining a healthy weight.	Maintain a consistent diet, monitor weight regularly, address any changes in appetite or activity levels promptly.
Senior (7+ years)	Lower calorie diet with increased fibre, often with added supplements supporting joint health and digestive function.	Monitor weight and hydration, adjust food based on activity level and overall health, consult veterinarian for dietary adjustments related to health issues.

What are the signs of a cat with food allergies?

Food allergies in cats can manifest in various ways, making diagnosis challenging. The most common symptoms often involve the skin and digestive system. It's crucial to remember that allergies can be subtle, and you may not observe all of these symptoms simultaneously.

Common signs of a food allergy include:

• Skin problems: Itching, scratching, hair loss (especially around the face, ears, and paws), redness, inflammation, and even secondary skin infections from constant scratching.
• Digestive issues: Vomiting, diarrhoea (often chronic or intermittent), flatulence.
• Ear infections: Recurring ear infections are a potential sign, linked to inflammatory responses in the body.
• Other symptoms: Some cats may experience sneezing or other respiratory signs. Others may show signs of lethargy or poor overall health.

If you suspect your cat has a food allergy, keeping a detailed food diary can be helpful in identifying potential triggers. However, a definitive diagnosis requires veterinary intervention. Your vet may recommend an elimination diet trial, involving feeding a food with a limited number of novel protein and carbohydrate sources to identify the specific allergen. They may also conduct allergy testing.

Symptom	Description	Further Investigation
Itching	Excessive scratching, licking, rubbing, leading to hair loss, redness, or skin lesions.	Veterinary examination to rule out parasites, other skin conditions.
Vomiting	Frequent or chronic vomiting after eating, potentially with undigested food.	Veterinary examination to check for underlying gastrointestinal issues.
Diarrhoea	Loose or watery stools, potentially bloody or mucus-filled.	Veterinary examination to rule out infections, inflammatory bowel disease.
Ear Infections	Recurring ear infections, often accompanied by redness, inflammation, or discharge.	Veterinary examination and potential ear swab for bacterial or yeast culture.

What are some common cat food brands?

The market offers a vast array of cat food brands, each with its own pricing structure, ingredients, and formulations. Some popular and widely available brands include Purina Pro Plan, Hill's Science Diet, Royal Canin, Iams, and Fancy Feast. Within these brands, there's usually a range of products catering to different life stages, dietary needs, and even specific breeds. Premium brands often focus on higher-quality ingredients and may include more meat and fewer fillers.

Choosing a brand is a very personal decision, influenced by factors like your budget, your cat's preferences, and any specific health requirements. Always thoroughly examine the ingredient list, looking for named meat sources as primary ingredients, and avoiding those high in fillers. Reading reviews from other cat owners can be beneficial, but remember that individual experiences can vary.

It's crucial to remember that brand alone isn't the sole indicator of quality. A premium brand doesn't automatically guarantee suitability for your cat. Always consult your veterinarian before making significant changes to your cat's diet, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions.

Brand Category	Example Brands	General Characteristics
Budget-Friendly	Whiskas, Friskies	Often contain higher levels of fillers, may use less desirable protein sources.
Mid-Range	Purina One, Iams	Generally good balance of price and quality, reasonable ingredients.
Premium	Royal Canin, Hill's Science Diet, Orijen	Higher quality ingredients, often more meat-based, fewer fillers, but significantly more expensive.
Holistic/Natural	Wellness, Natural Balance	Focus on natural ingredients and limited processed ingredients, usually more expensive.

How much should I feed my cat?

Determining the appropriate food quantity for your cat depends on several interacting factors. The most important are their age, weight, activity level, and the calorie density of the specific food you are feeding. Always begin by carefully following the feeding guidelines printed on the food packaging. These guidelines are usually provided in ranges or as a table, taking into account the cat's weight. However, these are merely starting points, and adjustments will likely be necessary.

Regularly monitoring your cat's weight is crucial. Use a pet scale to weigh your cat at least monthly, and ideally weekly, particularly when making dietary changes. Ideal body condition should allow you to feel their ribs easily but not see them prominently. A noticeable abdomen should not be present, and their waist should be visible when looking down at them.

If your cat is overweight, gradually reduce their food intake. This should be done slowly to avoid metabolic disturbances. Consult your veterinarian for advice on a safe weight loss plan. If your cat is underweight despite eating appropriately, there may be an underlying health condition requiring veterinary attention. Never make significant dietary changes without first consulting your veterinarian.

Factor	Effect on Food Amount	Monitoring
Age (Kitten)	Higher amount to support growth.	Regular weight checks, growth monitoring.
Age (Adult)	Maintain a healthy weight.	Monthly weight checks, adjust based on body condition.
Age (Senior)	May require a lower amount due to decreased activity level and metabolism.	Regular weight and body condition monitoring, more frequent checks.
Activity Level (High)	May require slightly more food.	Adjust based on weight and energy levels.
Calorie Density of Food	Higher calorie foods require a smaller quantity.	Read food labels carefully and adjust portions accordingly.

Can cats be vegetarian or vegan?

No, cats cannot thrive on a vegetarian or vegan diet. They are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are physiologically designed to obtain essential nutrients primarily from animal-based sources. Their digestive systems and metabolic processes are not equipped to efficiently extract the necessary nutrients from plant-based foods alone. Attempting to feed a cat a vegetarian or vegan diet will inevitably lead to serious health deficiencies and potentially fatal consequences.

Cats require specific nutrients found abundantly in animal tissues but scarce or absent in plant-based foods. These include:

• Taurine: An essential amino acid crucial for heart and eye health. Deficiency leads to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), retinal degeneration, and reproductive problems.
• Arachidonic acid: An omega-6 fatty acid vital for skin and coat health. Cats cannot efficiently synthesize this fatty acid from other sources.
• Vitamin A (preformed): Cats cannot convert beta-carotene (a plant-based precursor) into usable vitamin A with sufficient efficiency, requiring a direct source from animal products.
• High-quality protein: Cats need highly digestible animal protein to meet their metabolic demands.

A vegetarian or vegan diet is incredibly dangerous for cats and should never be considered. Prioritising their health requires providing a diet that meets their specific carnivorous needs.

Nutrient	Source	Deficiency Consequences
Taurine	Meat, fish	Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), blindness, reproductive problems.
Arachidonic acid	Animal fats	Dry, flaky skin, dull coat, poor wound healing.
Vitamin A (preformed)	Animal products (liver, eggs)	Impaired vision, reproductive issues, weakened immune system.
High-quality protein	Meat, fish, poultry	Muscle wasting, impaired growth, weakened immune system.

What are the dangers of feeding cats raw meat?

While some advocate for raw meat diets, believing them to be more natural, the risks significantly outweigh the perceived benefits. Raw meat poses serious health threats to cats, primarily due to the risk of bacterial and parasitic contamination. Raw meat can harbor harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, and Listeria, causing food poisoning in both cats and humans. It can also contain parasites like Toxoplasma gondii, the causative agent of toxoplasmosis, a potentially serious infection.

Furthermore, raw meat diets are difficult to balance nutritionally. Ensuring that the diet provides all essential nutrients in the correct proportions is challenging and requires expertise in feline nutrition. A poorly balanced raw diet can lead to serious nutritional deficiencies, impacting the cat's overall health, growth, and development.

The convenience and safety of commercially prepared cat foods far outweigh the risks associated with raw feeding. Commercial cat foods undergo rigorous quality control and are formulated to meet the complete nutritional needs of cats, minimizing the risks of bacterial contamination and nutrient deficiencies. Unless under the strict guidance of a veterinary nutritionist with experience in formulating balanced raw diets, avoid feeding your cat raw meat.

Risk	Consequences
Bacterial contamination (Salmonella, E. coli, etc.)	Food poisoning (diarrhoea, vomiting, fever), potential for severe illness, especially in immunocompromised cats. Risk of zoonotic transmission (passing the infection to humans).
Parasitic infection (Toxoplasmosis)	Serious health complications, including neurological issues, potentially fatal for kittens and immunocompromised cats. Risk of zoonotic transmission, particularly to pregnant women.
Nutritional imbalances	Deficiencies in essential nutrients, leading to stunted growth, weakened immune system, organ damage, and other health problems.
Bone splinters	Potential for injury to the mouth or digestive tract.

What should I do if my cat is refusing to eat?

A sudden loss of appetite in a cat is a serious concern requiring immediate veterinary attention. While occasional picky eating is common, a prolonged refusal to eat can quickly lead to dehydration and other health complications. There's a wide range of potential causes, from minor issues like dental problems or stress to more serious underlying diseases. Do not attempt to self-diagnose or delay seeking professional help.

When to seek immediate veterinary attention:

• Refusal to eat for more than 24 hours.
• Accompanied by lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea, or other symptoms.
• The cat appears unwell or in distress.

Your veterinarian will conduct a thorough examination, potentially including blood tests and other diagnostic procedures, to identify the underlying cause of the anorexia. Treatment will depend on the diagnosis, ranging from addressing dental issues or managing stress to treating infections or other diseases.

Never force-feed a cat that refuses to eat. This can be traumatic and may worsen the situation. Instead, focus on providing a comfortable and stress-free environment, and follow your veterinarian's instructions carefully.

Possible Cause	Symptoms	Veterinary Actions
Dental problems	Pain when eating, drooling, bad breath.	Dental examination, cleaning, extractions if necessary.
Gastrointestinal issues	Vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain.	Blood tests, imaging, possibly endoscopy.
Infections	Fever, lethargy, other systemic symptoms.	Blood tests, cultures, appropriate medication.
Kidney disease	Increased thirst, urination, weight loss.	Blood and urine tests, potentially ultrasound.
Stress	Changes in behaviour, hiding, anxiety.	Addressing environmental factors, possibly medication.