Vegetarian Cats?

"Does my cat really need meat? Or can
I have a vegetarian, or even a vegan cat?"

Cats are considered "obligate carnivores." This means they must have meat in their diets to ensure good health and a long life. However, this is not to say that they need only meat for proper nutrition.

Cats Need Animal Protein

Unlike humans, and even dogs, a cat's body cannot manufacture all of the essential amino acids it needs. These amino acids are naturally found in certain animals.

The most important amino acid that your cat's body cannot manufacture is taurine. A taurine deficiency can lead to blindness, heart failure, and reproductive problems.

In short, your cat needs animal-derived protein to stay healthy.

Other Opinions About Vegetarian Cats and Vegan Cats

A few sources on the web say that cats can eat vegetarian, and even vegan cat diets and be still healthy. However, they all acknowledge that felines need taurine in to stay healthy. Some even offer to sell you a taurine supplement.

If you are considering a vegetarian diet for your feline, please get professional advice from a trusted veterinarian.

Your cat's health is too important to risk.

Related Articles:

Choosing the Best Cat Food - What to look for on cat food labels to choose nutritious food for your healthy cat or kitten.

Vegetarian Pets - Extensive article from veterinarian about vegetarian diets for pets.

Recommendation for Healthy Cat Food

Personally, I've been a vegetarian for over 25 years, and I would love if my two precious kitties could also eat a meat-free diet, but for the reasons above, for my cats' health, I know I have to include animal protein in their diets.

However, I want their food to be the healthiest I can find (and I don't have the time to cook for them from scratch). That's why I've chosen to feed my two healthy cats Life's Abundance Cat Food. This pet food is made by a company that respects all animals and formulated by a veterinarian who truly loves animals.

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