5 Incorrect Cat Feeding Habits to Avoid
1. Many pet owners tend to overindulge their cats, often providing them with a vast array of snacks in various flavors, leading to a scenario where the cat consumes more treats than its regular meals. This is a serious mistake in feeding. Excessive snacking can result in the cat taking in too many calories, which may lead to reduced intake of its main meals and eventually, selective eating. Treats should be used as supplements or training rewards, never as a substitute for the cat's primary diet.
2. Some pet owners may believe that since cats enjoy the taste of fish, feeding them raw fish is a good idea. However, cats are merely intrigued by the fishy smell, which they associate with fresh meat. While it's not entirely harmful to feed cats fish, it's best to avoid raw fish due to the potential presence of parasites or bacteria, which can harm their health. Moreover, raw fish is often full of bones, and cats are not skilled at removing them. If a bone gets stuck in a cat's throat, it can lead to inflammation of the respiratory tract, or even bleeding and intestinal obstruction.
3. While cat food is typically the staple in a cat's diet, some owners are tempted to try different brands on their feline friends. This frequent switching can be problematic, as it can lead to digestive issues. While changing cat food is not inherently bad, it should be done gradually to allow the cat to adjust. If you're introducing a new type of food, like goat's milk powder, start with small amounts and gradually increase as the cat becomes accustomed to it.
4. Cats have a fondness for liverbased foods that's often mistaken for a love for snacks. Many imported cat cans also use liver as a primary ingredient. While many pet owners assume that liver is packed with nutrients, feeding it excessively can lead to calcium deficiencies. Liver contains a high amount of phosphorus, which can interfere with the body's ability to absorb calcium properly.
Some pet owners are quite thrifty, opting to save uneaten food for the next day. However, this practice can be harmful as cat food can easily become damp and harbor bacteria when exposed to air, posing health risks to the cat. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to consult an online veterinary expert.
