Are you a cat owner? What kinds of foods do you give your pet? Feeding your cat nutritious and sufficient food ensures their happiness while improving the relationship between pet and pet owner. However, the numerous cat food brands up for selection can be quite confusing, especially to first-time pet owners. In this article, we will examine the different types of cat food accessible for the health and nutrition of your pet.
Cats are naturally meat-eaters and their diet must include higher protein quotients. Nevertheless, the diet should be balanced with carbohydrates, fats, and fiber for providing essential minerals and vitamins. When selecting a cat food brand, it’s important to consider your pet’s age, nutritional requirements, and unique preferences.
Types of Cat Food
The choice of cat food you select should be complete in providing all the required dietary needs. As a pet owner, you have to observe your cat and determine the texture, flavor, nutritional value, and dietary needs required by your feline companion. The following are the types of food available for your pet;
- Dry cat food – Also referred to as kibble, these are hard and crunchy that offer a variety of nutritional benefits as indicated on the packaging. When properly stored, they can last for a longer time reducing the cost associated with feeding. Dry food is not preferred by finicky pets because of its unpalatability. Also, ensure to provide your cat with water after giving them dry cat food to ensure they remain hydrated.
- Wet cat food – This type resembles kibbles that are moist and very palatable. Fussy eaters prefer this type of food and can overfeed if not controlled. Ensure you carefully read the ingredients on the packaging to provide a square meal for your pet. Wet food can be given as the main food with dry food acting as a snack for your cat to nibble on throughout the day. Also, depending on the age of your pet, provide the right size of servings by consulting your local veterinarian. Overfeeding can have disastrous health results.
- Semi-moist cat food – Owing to the number of preservatives used in storing this type of feed, most pet owners avoid it. This food is chewy for your cat. However, the preservatives can cause your cat to develop urinary tract problems and kidney issues especially when they don’t drink enough water. Semi-moist food should only be fed to your cat sparingly and as a last resort.
Conclusion
Oftentimes, cats may require special dietary needs depending on your pet’s age and health needs. Select the type of food with all the necessary ingredients designed to meet your cat’s dietary needs at what stage they are in their life. With the advice of a veterinary professional, you can put your pet on a specialized therapeutic diet to relieve them of the ailment or to boost their immunity. Always remember to carefully read the ingredients indicated on the packaging to determine if they meet your pet’s dietary requirements. When it comes to cat food, the quality of the feed always trumps quantity.
