Essential Nutritional Needs for Cats: A Comprehensive G

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Ensuring your feline friend grows up healthy and robust requires a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. But, do you, as a caring pet parent, know exactly what these nutrients are for your cat?

Protein

Cats, being obligate carnivores, require animalbased proteins since plantbased sources cannot provide the necessary amino acids. The amount of amino acids needed can vary due to factors like physiological state, age, activity level, and the digestibility of the protein source. However, it's a wellknown fact that cats have a high protein requirement.

Research indicates that 52% of a cat's daily energy intake comes from protein, with 46% from fats.

Protein is a primary source of energy for cats. Fresh meats, eggs, and dairy products are excellent sources of protein, making them a staple in homemade diets.

Water

Just like humans, our little feline companions are made up of water. Water is crucial for all mammals, and insufficient hydration can be a leading cause of urinary tract issues in cats.

At least 65% of a cat's diet should consist of water, which includes the moisture found in meats, broths, and plain water.

Besides dry kibble, most fresh meats and canned food can help meet a cat's daily water needs.

Essential Fatty Acids

Some fatty acids are also considered essential. Cats have a high demand for arachidonic acid (AA) due to their limited ability to synthesize linoleic acid (LA). Since cats (unlike dogs) have low delta6desaturase enzyme activity, which converts LA into alphalinolenic acid (ALA), and further into AA, incorporating animalbased ingredients into their diet is crucial for ensuring an adequate supply of AA.

In addition to LA and AA, kittens also need omega3 fatty acids, such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which is vital for optimal development of the nervous system, retina, and auditory system. Since cats are less efficient at producing DHA than dogs, kittens require more DHA. Mother cats can pass some DHA to their kittens through the womb or via milk, but supplementing with growth diets (often fish oil) ensures kittens receive sufficient amounts.

vitamins

Vitamins are organic compounds that maintain the health of a cat's body and cell structure, playing a crucial role in the wellbeing of cats and other mammals. They are primarily categorized into fatsoluble and watersoluble vitamins, both of which are vital for maintaining a cat's health. Here are a few key vitamins to consider:

⑴ Vitamin A is essential for maintaining the health of the epidermal tissue and eyes. Since cats cannot convert betacarotene from their food into absorbable vitamin A, they need to obtain it from animal sources or vitamin supplements. It's important to note that excessive vitamin A can lead to toxicity if not properly excreted.

⑵ Vitamin D helps the body absorb and utilize calcium and phosphorus, maintaining the balance of these minerals. Cats cannot produce vitamin D from sunlight like humans, so it needs to be added to their diet. However, if your cat is on a commercial diet, you don't usually have to worry about a deficiency. Those on homemade diets, however, should be more cautious.

⑶ The Bcomplex vitamins (VB1, VB2, VB6, VB12, niacin, pantothenic acid, and folic acid) are watersoluble vitamins that play a significant role in maintaining a cat's overall health. Since they cannot be stored in the body like fatsoluble vitamins, they need to be replenished daily, especially for sick or stressed cats.

Fiber

While humans primarily rely on carbohydrates for energy, cats, as obligate carnivores, have a diet rich in proteins and fats, with carbohydrates making up a very small portion. Cats have a limited ability to digest carbohydrates, and an excess can lead to diarrhea.

Cats are not big water drinkers, but losing just 1014% of their body water can lead to health issues and a decline in their spirits. So, how can you ensure your cat gets enough hydration?

One effective method is to feed your cat in cans. Not only does it provide essential nutrients, but it also ensures a good water intake, making it a winwin situation.

Cats are meateaters, and throughout their lives, they need a balanced intake of proteins, fats, minerals, and more. With scientific feeding practices, we hope every cat can live a healthy and happy life.