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The Best Cat Food
to Keep Your Cat Healthy
"Are you serving your cat
healthy cat food?"
High-Quality Cat Food/Nutrition Equals High-Quality Cat Health
"Besides keeping him indoors, the best way to assure your cat's health and longevity is to give him a good diet. It's false economy to skimp on the quality of your cat's food. Offer him the best cat food you can obtain. A few extra pennies for high-quality food will pay huge dividends in the quality of his health and life. Those pennies will save you hundreds of dollars in veterinarian bills." The Humane Society of the United States
Proper nutrition is so important for your kitten or cat's health. If your cat is sick, has any special needs, is seriously overweight, or just for your own peace of mind, consult with your veterinarian about the proper diet and best food for your cat. If your veterinarian prescribes a particular type or brand, you should think of it as "medicine" and follow your veterinarian's advice exactly.
Important Note: The information provided here is general information based on the requirements of a healthy cat. Consult your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns or suspect your cat or kitten may be ill.
Choosing the Best Cat Food
Just as higher quality "people food" is better for your own health, higher quality pet food will be better for your cat's health. The healthy cat food you choose should be appropriate for your cat or kitten's current health status, physical condition, activity level, and life stage. And of course, your cat should like the taste!
The ASPCA recommends a "complete, high-quality food made by a reputable manufacturer, approved in feeding trials by the American Association of Feed Control Officers (AAFCO)." Just as you read the labels for your own food, you should also read the label of anything you feed your cat.
What to Look for On the Label
- The words "complete and balanced" should be on the label. Government agencies regulate what can be put on pet food labels, so food with these words should be healthier for your cat.
- Depending on your cat's life stage, the words "kitten," "adult," "senior" or "all life stages" should be on the label. Make sure the cat food you buy is the right one for the age and life stage of your cat.
- An AAFCO statement. This shows that the food has passed rigorous feeding tests.
- The first ingredient listed on the label should be an animal protein, such as chicken, fish, liver, or beef. If the first item listed is not an animal protein, move on.
- The "dry weight protein" listed should be at least 26% for your healthy adult cat. Kittens need even more protein and a premium cat food brand that says it's specifically for kittens should have a higher level of protein.
- A reputable manufacturer. Avoid generic brands, store brands, and low-priced discount brands. Saving money in the short run can cost you lots more in veterinary bills later.
- Contact information for the manufacturer. This way, if you want to, you can learn more about the company, its quality control, feeding trials, and ingredients.
Changing Your Cat's Food
If you plan to change the food your are serving your cat, it's usually best for your cat's health to change food gradually.
Gradually changing your cat's food will make it easier on your cat's digestive system and will allow her to get accustomed to the new taste.
Dry Food or Wet Food--Which is Best?
Cat food comes in both dry (kibble) and wet food. If you buy a premium food, both should be nutritionally equal. The decision about whether to serve your cat dry or wet food should depend on your cat's preference and your schedule.
Although it's always important to have fresh water available for your cat, this is even more important if your cat eats dry food.
Be sure to always use a clean bowl for your cat's food and water.
Your cat does not need milk.
How Much Food to Serve Your Healthy Cat
The cat food label will tell you the general guidelines of how much food you should serve your cat. These guidelines are based on an average healthy cat (is any cat really ever average?!).
Your cat is an individual and may need more or less than what the guidelines say, but the guidelines are a good starting point and you shouldn't move too far from them unless your veterinarian recommends otherwise.
Treats for Your Cat
Cats love treats and there is no reason a healthy cat should not be given treats. However, it's best to give them to your cat sparingly and one at a time. Treats should not make up more than 10% of your cat's daily food intake. For your cat's good health, be sure to give your cat
healthy cat treats
and not "junk food." And never give your cat "people food" treats.
Loss of Appetite
If your cat stops eating or takes only a few bites and wanders off for more than two meals in a row, consult your veterinarian immediately.
Recommendation for the Best Cat Food Online
Only Natural Pet Store
is our #1 recommendation for buying the best cat food online. They carry only natural pet products using the best ingredients for your cat. The pet foods they carry are made from "human grade" products and exceed all AAFCO standards. Plus, they have a low price guarantee. This natural online pet store has never carried any of the recalled pet food brands that were in the news this year.
Related Topics:
* Cat Feeding Schedule When to feed your cat
* Changing Cat Food How to change your cat's food
* Vegetarian Cats Can cats eat a vegetarian diet?
* Water or Milk? Does your cat need milk?
* Sample AAFCO Statement What to look for on product labels
Search My Healthy Cat or the Internet for more information.
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