Cats are by their nature carnivores, so they need plenty of animal protein and animal fats in their diet to remain in good health. But that does not mean that they must eat solely meat. Starch is an excellent source of energy, and it works well as a complement to protein to help build and repair tissue.
WHAT DO CATS EAT – PROTEIN AND FAT
Cats need lots of protein and the right amino acids in their diet, and too low levels can be dangerous. Even a single meal without the amino acid arginine can be fatal, and lack of taurine can lead to serious complications such as heart disease and blindness. Because animal products contain large quantities of both arginine and taurine, cat food must contain animal protein. A completely vegetarian diet is not suitable for cats.
Cats also need fat in their diet, partly for energy but also for the three essential fatty acids. One of these, arachidonic acid, is always included in cat food. Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA are not considered essential for cats, but have health-promoting properties which can benefit the development of the brain. EPA and DHA should therefore always be present in kitten food.
WHAT DO CATS EAT – STARCH
Because cats need meat in their diet, it does not mean they must eat solely meat. Cats have a good ability to break down well-cooked carbohydrates such as starch, which makes for an excellent source of energy. With starch as a complementary source of energy, protein can concentrate on its important role of repairing tissue.
THE IMPORTANCE OF A WELL-BALANCED CAT FOOD
A good cat food should be carefully formulated to keep your cat healthy and promote a long and healthy life. Bozita’s cat food contains high levels of animal protein complemented with good starches such as maize, potato and rice. This makes the food tasty, easy to digest and good for your cat.
WHAT VITAMINS AND MINERALS DOES YOUR CAT NEED
Like humans, cats also need certain vitamins and minerals in their diet. One big difference is that cats can produce vitamin C themselves, so this is not necessary to include in their food. Even if the raw ingredients contain vitamins and minerals, all food from Bozita contains additional vitamins and minerals to ensure that all of your cat’s dietary needs are met.
HOW MUCH SHOULD A CAT EAT?
How much food a cat needs depends on many things, such as size, breed and stage in life. A neutered or indoor cat has lower energy needs compared to an unneutered or an active outdoor cat. The amount of food they need also depends on the energy content of the meal. Dry food offers more energy per bite, so can be given in smaller quantities than wet food, where more generous portions are perfectly fine for the cat’s health.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD A CAT EAT?
It is most natural for cats to eat little and often, but it’s often not possible for many owners to cater to this. In which case, cats should be fed at least twice a day at regular intervals. If you still want to feed your cat little and often, there are devices available which release small portions at pre-set times throughout the day.
WHAT DO CATS EAT – BOZITA’S RECOMMENDATIONS
- Feed with a complete food formulated for cats. Avoid vegetarian food.
- Don’t give non-cat pet food to cats.
- It is essential that cats eat food which contains the right ingredients, formulated solely for cats.
- Keep the bowls and feeding area clean and fresh, removing any leftover wet food
- Ensure that your cat always has access to fresh, clean water. Provide wet food in addition to dry food.
- See that your cat maintains a healthy weight to avoid weight-related illnesses. Refer to Bozita’s body fat guidelines
- Remember that a neutered cat gains weight more easily. Select food specially formulated for neutered cats.
- Do not give cats milk or cream that is not formulated for cats. Adult cats are lactose intolerant.
