Cats are adorable pets and are loved as a family member in many households. They are different from other pets when it comes to their food habits. Just as they crave more care and affection from the owner, cat food also has some specialties.
Cat is a complete carnivore. Its physical and behavioural features are developed from its carnivorous nature. So, it is difficult to raise cats as complete vegetarian. Amino acids like Taurin is essential for cats. Taurin is available in plenty in mice and fish which is why these are favourite food of cats.
Dos
- Give cats cooked meat and fish, boiled egg and diluted milk for proteins.
- Boiled rice and cooked potato are good for carbohydrate.
- Giving vegetables like carrot is ideal for vitamins.
- Feeding cat with bone powder and liver will help them get calcium and vitamin A.
- Fish oil and boiled chicken neck also is good.
- Giving them a large bone piece for chewing is good.
- Cats should be given plenty of drinking water as well.
- Solid ready-made foods for cat available in the market also can be given.
- Cats eat grass so that they can get some vitamins.
- Eating grass also help eliminate indigestible parts like fur that reach their stomach while cleaning the body.
Don'ts
- Dog food and human foods are not suitable for cats.
- Do not give raw meat, fish or egg to cats as it can result in bacterial or parasite infections.
- Do not give them large quantity of milk and liver. Avoid giving them bones to eat.
- Do not feed cats with chocolates, garlic and onion.
- Overfeeding cats will lead to lifestyle diseases.
Kittens and pregnant cats
Kittens mainly feed on mother's milk for upto four weeks from birth. It is good for boosting immunity and health. After four weeks, they can be given solid foods.
Cooked lentil and vegetables are good at this time. After ten weeks, kittens start eating meat and fish. Pregnant and lactating cats must be given extra food and water.
