The cats They are part of the family and, as such, we want to give them the best, starting with their eating. They are animals strict carnivores, which means that their main diet should be based on meat. But there are many varieties of food on the market, from dry feed to wet food or even diets based on natural foods, such as the BARF diet.
Below, we'll explore the different feeding options available for your cat, with their pros and cons, so you can make an informed decision.
What can cats eat?
Before we delve into feeding options, it's important to remember that a cat is a obligate carnivore. This means that they need to get most of their nutrients from meat. However, they can also consume some vegetables and fruits in small quantities, which provide fiber and vitamins, although they are not essential in their diet. Let's look at the most common options that we can offer our cats.
Dry food or feed
El feed It is one of the most popular options for feeding cats. It consists of small croquettes that concentrate the right amount of protein in each bite. proteins, fats and other nutrients that the cat needs to stay healthy. A balance between dry and wet food is recommended to ensure that the cat is well hydrated and keeps its digestive health under control.
On the other hand, dry food has less than 10% moisture, which makes it more practical and easier to store. Below we explain in detail the Advantages and disadvantages of feed, depending on whether it is dry or wet.
Advantages of dry feed:
- More economical and easier to store.
- Allows the cat to eat freely throughout the day.
- Some dry food is formulated for cats with specific dietary needs.
Disadvantages of dry food:
- Poor hydration, which can affect urinary health.
- May cause dental problems in sensitive cats.
Wet food
La wet food has a notable presence in the diet of cats. This type of food contains much more water than dry food, which is positive for improving hydration and preventing the formation of urinary stones in felines. In addition, as it has a softer texture, it is usually easier to chew and digest.
However, its biggest drawback is that once the package is opened, it must be consumed quickly to prevent it from spoiling. It is commonly found in forms such as pâté, mousse or pieces of meat in sauce.
Advantages of wet food:
- Easy to digest for cats.
- Promotes hydration.
- Variety in flavors and textures.
Disadvantages of wet food:
- It should be consumed quickly once opened.
- Less economical and practical than dry feed.
Natural food or BARF diet
La natural food for cats, also known as BARF diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food), consists of offering them raw food such as meat and organs. In the wild, cats hunt prey and eat it raw, so this type of diet seeks to replicate that natural behavior.
It is important to note that in a BARF diet You should avoid fine bones that can splinter and cause digestive problems. It is also crucial to ensure the freshness of the food and remember that it is preferable to start with chicken meat.
Advantages of natural food:
- Promotes healthier teeth.
- Improves the shine and softness of the coat.
- The stools are more compact and less odorous.
Disadvantages of natural food:
- It takes more time to prepare and organize.
- It may be more expensive than high-quality feed.
Fruits and vegetables for cats
Although cats are carnivores, some fruits and vegetables can offer additional benefits due to their vitamin, mineral and fiber content. fruits help hydration and provide antioxidants, while some vegetables They also provide fiber that helps improve intestinal transit. However, they should be offered in small quantities and as accessories, not as meat substitutes.
Recommended fruits for cats:
- Apple (without seeds or skin).
- Peach and melon.
- Pear and papaya.
- Watermelon.
Recommended vegetables for cats:
- Cooked carrots.
- Broccoli.
- Green beans.
- Zucchini.
General recommendations
Although cats can adapt to different types of food, you should pay special attention to their behavior to detect possible intolerances or allergies. Below are some tips important tips To ensure your cat receives adequate nutrition:
- Make sure that meat is always the basis of their diet. Cats They don't need cereals such as wheat or corn, ingredients that are found in many low-quality commercial feeds.
- Avoid giving vegetarian or vegan food, as serious nutritional deficiencies could develop.
- Try to offer them only specific milk for cats if they are puppies and avoid other types of dairy that can cause digestive problems.
- Always follow the instructions of the veterinarian for any dietary change.
Ensuring your cat has a balanced diet is key to ensuring their health. long-term health and well-beingDifferent options are adapted to your feline's lifestyle and preferences, but it is always important to remember that meat should be the basis of their diet.
Someone to help me about 10 days ago, my cat has not returned, they have told me that he may be partying but for a long time in my opinion, someone tell me that I can keep waiting for him or make me aware that he will not return, please help me cat is my great company I had him since he was in the raisin of his mother cat until a year later
I bought him everything dry and canned, he is only fascinated by a brand of canned food or it is the most expensive when they gave it to me he liked dry and another does not even want to go near it that now I want to give him dry
Hello isbael.
When a cat gets used to one type of food, it can take a lot to change it.
My advice is to add a little more dry food to your plate of wet food. At first you will have to put one or two grains of feed, but as the days go by, add a little more.
Another option is to crush a small amount of dry feed, and mix it with the wet food. As the days go by, you put less and less cans and more I think.
Much encouragement.