Cats are beloved pets for millions of people worldwide. Currently we are observing a huge increase in interest of raring cats as pet to almost all class of people in Bangladesh as cats are loved & considered as a major source of company to all age groups. As the number of raring increasing day by day, it’s been really important to be focused on ensuring quality & accurate nutrition to the loved ones for ensuring good health & hassle free raring. Choosing the right kind of food for feline friend can be daunting as there are numerous products on the market claiming to be “the best.” However, it is essential to underst& that not all cat foods are created equal; some may contain unhealthy ingredients or lack essential nutrients.

 

Definition of Good Cat Food: Good cat food is a type of nourishment that meets all the nutritional needs & requirements of cats. It should contain high-quality protein (preferably from animal sources), healthy fats, carbohydrates & a balanced blend of vitamins & minerals. Good cat food should also be free from harmful additives such as artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors.

 

The Importance of Feeding Cats with The Right Food: Feeding cat with good quality food is essential because it affects their overall health & wellbeing in several ways-

Promoting Healthy Growth & Development: Kittens need proper nutrition to grow into healthy adult cats. A lack of essential ingredients such as proteins, fats, vitamins, & minerals can lead to stunted growth or other health issues.

Maintaining Optimum Weight: Maintaining Healthy Weight: Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for cats as obesity can lead to several health issues such as diabetes, arthritis & heart disease.

Promoting Digestive Health: Feeding cat with good quality food ensures that they receive enough fiber in their diet which aids in digestion.

Reducing The Risk of Chronic Diseases: Feeding cat with the right food can reduce the risk of developing chronic cat diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, & kidney problems. It is crucial to remember that feeding your feline friend with good quality food is not an alternative to veterinary care. Regular checkups with vet ensure that any potential health issues are detected early & treated promptly before they escalate into more severe problems. Providing cat with high-quality food that meets their nutritional needs is an investment in their long-term health.

Enhancing Their Quality of Life: Feeding cats with good quality food will improve their overall health & wellbeing, making them happier & more active.

Nutritional Needs of Cats

Protein Requirements: Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass, repairing tissues & supporting the immune system. The ideal protein content in cat food should be between 25-30% on a dry matter basis.

Fats & Carbohydrates Requirements: Fat & Carbs are important source of energy for cats & helps maintain healthy skin & coat. The ideal fat content in cat food should be between 10-20% on a dry matter basis & carbohydrate content in cat food should not exceed 10%.

Vitamins & Minerals Requirements: Vitamins & minerals are essential nutrients that cats require to maintain optimal health. Some of the most important vitamins for cats include Vitamin A, B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin), Vitamin D3 & E. These vitamins help support various body functions including vision health, immune system function & overall growth development. Minerals such as calcium, phosphorus & magnesium help maintain strong bones.

 

Types of Cat Food

Every cat is unique & has different nutritional needs. There are three main types of cat food: dry cat food, wet cat food, & semi-moist cat food. Each type has its advantages & disadvantages.

Dry Cat Food: Dry cat food is also known as kibble or biscuits. It comes in various shapes, sizes, flavors, & textures. Dry cat food typically contains more carbohydrates & one of the most significant benefits of dry cat food is that it helps keep cat’s teeth clean by removing plaque buildup.

Wet Cat Food: Wet cat food contains more moisture than dry & come packaged in cans or pouches containing various flavors such as chicken liver, beef chunks in gravy, etc.

Semi-moist Cat Food: Semi-moist cat food is a cross between dry kibble & wet canned food. It contains around 30% moisture compared to the 10% found in dry foods & contain more salt & sugar to enhance its flavor which can be harmful to cats that have diabetes or kidney problems.

 

Ingredients to Look for in Good Cat Food

Protein Sources: As mentioned earlier, high-quality protein should be the first ingredient listed on cat’s food label. Chicken is one of the most common proteins found in commercial cat food because it is easily digestible while providing all necessary amino acids required by felines’ bodies. Fish like salmon or tuna are also great sources of protein for cats, containing healthy Omega-3 fatty acids. Other protein sources include turkey, beef, lamb.

Carbohydrates: Cats don’t require a large amount of carbohydrates in their diet but they can provide energy & help with digestion. The best carbohydrates for cats are easily digestible & don’t cause any upset stomachs.

Fat: Good sources of fat include animal fat or vegetable oil which contain Omega-6 fatty acids that promote healthy skin & coat. Omega-3 fatty acids are also important as they can reduce inflammation throughout cat’s body while supporting heart health.

Vitamins & Minerals: Vitamins & minerals are essential nutrients that every cat needs. It’s important to check if the cat food you’re considering provides all necessary vitamins. Especially Vitamin A which supports vision health; B vitamins (thiamine & riboflavin) which aid in metabolism; Vitamin D3 which helps with bone development; & Vitamin E which is an antioxidant that protects against cell damage. Minerals like calcium are also crucial as they support bone development while phosphorus supports kidney function. Zinc & iron are also important for maintaining a healthy immune system.

 

Common Mistakes in Feeding Cats: Cats are known to be picky eaters, but what they eat is crucial to their overall health & well-being. Feeding them the wrong type or amount of food can cause serious health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, & digestive problems.

Feeding Table Scraps or Human Foods: It’s tempting to give cat a taste of what you’re eating, especially when they give you those pleading eyes. However, feeding table scraps or human foods can be harmful to cat’s health.

Feeding Only One Type of Food: Cats may seem happy eating the same type of food every day but it’s not healthy in the long run. A single type of food cannot provide all the necessary nutrients that cats need for a balanced diet & mixing different types like dry kibble with canned wet food.

Feeding Too Much or Too Little: Feeding cat too much, too little, or at the wrong time can lead to obesity or malnutrition. It’s important to measure the portions of cat’s food according to their weight, age, & activity level.

 

How to Choose the Right Cat Food for your Pet? It’s time to choose the right type of food. This, to make sure that it meets pet’s nutritional needs. With so many options available in the market, considered these factors-

Type of Food, Quality Ingredients, Cat’s Age, Cat’s Health Condition & Brand Reputation

 

Summary:  Feeding cat with good quality nutrition is essential for maintaining its overall health & well-being. & choosing high-quality ingredients in their diet, ensures cat lives a healthy & happy life. Regular consultation with veterinarian if any concerns about cat’s diet. With the right diet & care, our feline friend will thrive for years to come! Finally providing cat with high-quality food that meets their nutritional needs is an investment in their long-term health.

 

Dr. Md. Faisal Ferdous

DVM, MS in Pharmacology, (BAU)

Pet Animal Enthusiast

National Sales Manager, AH

ACI PLC