Our Cat Food Guide | What Do Cats Need In Their Diet

If you have a cat, you know how picky they can be about their food. What makes it all the more difficult is that there are important dos and don’ts when it comes to feeding your cat. 

Dry food or wet food? How and when should they be fed? Does age really matter when it comes to the cat food you choose? 

Thankfully here at WONDERPETS, we’ve put together this guide to make life easier for you and your four legged friend. 

Cats need lots of animal-based protein

While there is no one-size-fits-all diet for all cats, most do best on meals that are high in moisture and protein and low in carbohydrates. When cats are provided access to meals with various protein, fat, and carbohydrate concentrations, they prefer to self-select a diet that gives them roughly 52% of their calories from protein, 36% from fat, and 12% from carbs. The bottom line is that you should not make your cat a vegetarian, as this can really deprive them of the protein, they need to be healthy. 

Age matters

Your cat's age is one of the most significant aspects to consider when purchasing cat food. Varied life stages necessitate different amounts of activity and nutritional requirements. Kittens, for example, are much more active than their elder counterparts, and they require additional nutrients to aid in their rapid growth. Just as human newborns and adult people do not consume the same meals, kittens and adult cats should not eat the same foods since their nutritional needs alter with time. You may come across cat food that says, "for all life stages," but it's better to look for life-stage nutrition.

WONDERPETS stocks high-quality cat food, from Mackerel and lamb wet adult cat food to kitten chicken, full of moisture and vitamins and amino acids for a healthy immune system as they grow.

Your cats’ nutritional needs can change over time

Consider any potential diseases or sensitivities your cat may develop over time in addition to purchasing food based on their life stages. Mother cats nursing their kittens require a considerably higher calorie diet, and other cats prefer simpler diets owing to allergies. Your veterinarian can assist you with these specific requirements. 

Senior cats require food high in protein and moisture to support their renal systems but low in fat and calories to avoid weight gain, which can be harmful to their health. 

Wet food just might be better

Quality is ultimately essential when choosing between canned wet food and dry kibble for cats, although wet food is generally the better option. Wet foods often suit a cat's nutritional demands better than dry meals, but this may not be the case if the wet food is of very low quality. Ensure to clean your cat's bowl well between each wet food feeding, as it can be a breeding ground for germs, which is one of the ways it could be making your cat sick.

Some human foods are okay occasionally

Though cats should consume mostly packaged cat food, which is made specifically for their nutritional needs, you can occasionally give them a wonderful treat, such as little morsels of good human cuisine. Cats enjoy small portions of cooked meat or fish as treats. Cooked egg, melon, and mashed sweet potato are among the other delectable delicacies they enjoy. In contrast, your cat cannot eat a vast range of human treats, including chocolate and grapes.

When/how you feed your cat is important

Aside from the type of food you feed your feline companion, knowing how much and when to feed them is also crucial. While it's typical to 'free-feed' cats and let them graze all day, most veterinarians recommend giving specified amounts at regular times every day. Free-feeding can quickly develop into obesity, which can lead to more severe health problems like diabetes and joint disease. 

Find cat food your pet will love

We all know how fickle cats can be, making finding the proper diet even more challenging. WONDERPETS has a fantastic cat food range we’re sure even the fussiest feline will love. Consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate nutrient balance for your pet's specific requirements.