Cat Nutrition

Even though cats do not vary in size, to the same level as dogs, this does not mean that they are easier to feed. Cats have complex nutritional requirements. There are 41 essential nutrients required by cats and they are less able to digest plant material.

Cats have higher requirements for proteins and amino acids compared with dogs. A cat breaks down protein very rapidly and is unable to adapt when dietary supplies are low by reducing the rate of breakdown.

A cat is also very sensitive to arginine deficiency. This amino acid is essential for metabolism and a cat not only breaks it down quickly, but is unable to make it’s own due to metabolic deficiencies. This would likely be a problem if the cats diet is generally low in protein.

The amino acid taurine is needed for eyesight, heart function, bile formation and reproduction in female cats. Cats are not able to make enough taurine themselves and rely on it being provided in food. The majority of taurine comes from meat, poultry or shellfish, so cats should never be fed as vegetarians. Cats also need a source of the essential fatty acid, arachadonic, as they are unable to make enough of their own. Arachadonic acid is found in animal fat sources only and is another reason why cats must not be fed as vegetarians.

The nutritional needs of cats can vary depending on whether it is an indoor or outdoor cat, its age or reproductive state.

Kittens

Kittens should be fed a high protein, calorie diet which is easy to chew. A good quality kitten food will provide for all their needs.

Kittens grow rapidly and will reach 75% of their adult body weight by around 6 months of age. Kittens become adult cats around 9-12 months old and can be fed an adult diet.

Older Cats

At around 7 years and older, cats start to experience a decline in certain areas, including the immune system. They may be less active and the sense of smell or taste can also be affected. There are foods available for older cats that have an amended nutritional content.

Cats also experience changes in how they digest their food as they get older. They cannot digest protein or oils as efficiently as before. Foods for older cats are formulated to be more digestible to help combat these changes.

Pregnant Females

After mating, female cats will need more calories. Their nutritional requirements peak 5-6 weeks after the kittens are born, when they will be using 3-4 times more energy than usual.

If they are not fed properly, female cats will not be producing enough milk so cat owners should consult their vet for additional advice on how best to feed pregnant cats or cats with kittens. A kitten diet would usually be appropriate at this stage.