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Good and Bad Snacks Besides feeding a high-quality commercial cat food, you can feed your cat some people foods-occasionally, and always as part of the cat's regular diet. Always consider total caloric intake and if you're going to treat Kitty, reduce his regular meal somewhat. Be careful what you give as treats. Here are some good ones (+) and bad ones (-): + vegetables, raw or cooked, without sauce + broth from water-packed meats and fish + cooked meat (poultry, beef, lamb, pork, liver), with any and all bones removed + cheese or yogurt + fresh fruit - raw fish - uncooked meats - dog food - bones of any kind - chocolate in any form - candies, desserts, sweets - onions and raw potatoes � � |
Nutritional Needs Nutrients are the substances in food that provide nourishment. Cats require a combination of six different classes of nutrients for good health: water, protein, carbohydrates, lipids (fats), minerals and vitamins. Protein Protein is composed of many amino acids needed for good feline health. Protein provides energy and builds healthy skin, fur, nails, ligaments, cartilage and tendons. Although your kitten's body can synthesize some amino acids, those that can't be made by the body must be acquired through the diet. Some nutrients can be obtained only in meat like taurine , without it cats develop heart disease or go blind. Cats require four times more protein than dogs do; they also need more dietary fats than dogs do and some must come from animal protein. Cats absolutely cannot survive on vegetarian diets; they must have animal protein in their daily ration. � Carbohydrates Carbohydrates supply energy. They also help the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract function. Carbohydrates are obtained from sugars and starches like some vegetables and grains. Fats Fat makes food taste good, and it's a vital nutrient despite the negative associations it has for us. Fat supplies fuel for energy and helps transport vitamins. Fat deposits protect the body from heat loss. Vitamins and Minerals Vitamins contribute to numerous bodily functions, and too much or too little of a vitamin can have a major effect on your cat's health. Minerals contribute to strong bones and teeth. Calcium and phosphorous are two commonly known minerals. If you think kitty nutrition sounds complicated, you're right. That's why feline nutritionist recommends feeding a commercially prepared food to your kitten. The principal ingredients of cat foods are meat, poultry, seafood, feed grains like corn or rice, and soybean meal. |
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This site contains a part from "An Owner's Guide to a Happy Healthy Pet: Kitten Care & Training Author: Amy D. Shojai |
Disclaimer:Pet Brag is a website created to bring factual information to you and also to provide support and interaction to pet owners. You should always consult a vetenarian or pet professionals first.