Cat's nutritional needs: how to choose the right food for your cat

The cat as an obligate carnivore

Unlike dogs, which are omnivores, cats are strict or obligate carnivores. This means that their body depends on nutrients that are only found in animal meat and that they cannot synthesize on their own. A vegetarian or low animal protein diet leads to severe deficiencies within a few weeks. Taurine, for example, is an amino acid essential for the cat's heart and vision that only exists in animal tissues.

Essential nutrients: what no feed should omit

When you read the label on your cat's food, make sure it includes these key elements:

• Quality animal protein (chicken, turkey, salmon, tuna): should be the first ingredient listed.
• Taurine: essential amino acid for heart and eye health; its absence causes blindness and cardiomyopathy.
• Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids: support the skin, coat and immune system.
• Preformed vitamin A: cats cannot convert beta-carotene to vitamin A.
• Niacin (vitamin B3): must be obtained directly from the diet.
• Arginine: another critical amino acid; its lack can be toxic in a few hours.

How to choose the ideal food for your cat

Not all feeds labeled as "complete and balanced" offer the same quality. Read the list of ingredients carefully: the first ingredient should always be an identified animal protein.

Snacks in the feline diet

Snacks are a great tool for reinforcing behaviors and bonding with your cat, but they should represent a maximum of 10% of your cat's daily caloric intake.

Signs that your cat is well nourished

A well-fed cat shows a shiny, dander-free coat, stable body weight with firm musculature, energy commensurate with its age, consistent, moderate-smelling feces, and pink, moist gums.