Nutrition

Nutrition for Cats

Cats are obligate carnivores

Essentially this means that cats must eat meat or fish in their daily diet and that vegetarianism is generally not considered an option for cats. Their diets should contain a high level of good quality meat or fish and animal fat and small quantities of fish oil are also beneficial for skin and coat condition.

Cats need the right balance of vitamins and amino acids

Cats require a careful balance of at least 13 different vitamins, plus the essential amino acid taurine necessary to promote a healthy heart and eyes. A complete diet will have all the necessary vitamins and amino acids in the right ratio, either derived from the raw materials themselves or from added supplements. Good manufacturers use protected vitamins to prevent them being degraded by processing. With the right food from a reputable supplier, there is no need to give your cat extra vitamins and over dosing of vitamins can be harmful.

Cats don't drink much

Originally a desert animal, cats are adept at living in harsh dry conditions. Probably due to their desert origins, cats don't drink an awful lot and if fed wet food they can get all the moisture they need from this. However, if fed dry food, cats should be encouraged to drink and water must be made available. Cats don't always like tap water, in which case you should consider collecting some rainwater in a clean container or offer bottled water or at least tap water that has been left out to 'stale'.

Cats have a tendency to get stones or cystitis

Due to their low moisture intake, a cat's urine is very concentrated and they have a tendency to get stones or cystitis. To help avoid this, the minerals in cat food have to be very carefully balanced in order to give a slightly acidic urinary pH.

Have a look at our range of Supa Cat food, developed to give your cat a well balanced nutritional diet. Alternatively you can call our free consumer care line on 0800 413 969 between 9am and 5pm, where our dedicated team of pet experts will help you.