FEEDING YOUR CAT

Cats are essentially carnivores, but a good diet should be a balanced combination of proteins, fats , minerals, and water. It is essential that cats are fed meat, as they cannot survive on a vegetarian diet. In fact a cats dietary requirments are quite omplex and its not necessarilt a good idea to feed it entirely on fresh meat which may lead to adeficiency in certain proteins or trace elements. However, if this is your choice, you must feed an additional vitamin and mineral supplement. These supplements can be harmful if overfeed, so check the instructions carefully. By far the best way of feeding your catsis ti give it a combination of fresh and formulated foods. This will ensure a balance diet and avoid boredom from having to eat same food over and over again.

WATER : A vital component in sustanining alllife,water is also necessary to ensure the correct funcioning of the cats digestive system. Particulary when feeding itdried foods. Make sure clean, fresh water is available at all time.




MILK : Cow's milk can upset the digestion but if your cat love milk, special lactose reduced brands are available which will be easier for him to digest. Do not offer milk as asubstitute to water.

CANNED FOOD : Most cats are fed canned food and there are many diffrent brands and flavours from which to choose. As a general rule, try to feed the better quality ines which, though more expensive, will be more nutrious and contain less cereal to bulk them out. Keep your cats interested by changing types regularly and follow the feeding instruction on the label.
DRIED FOODS : Nearly all cats love dried foods which are less messy alternatives to canned foods, there is also less wastage as the food can be left out all day without it spoiling. They are complete foods, which means that you do not have to worry about keeping the diet balanced. The crunchy texture may help keep teeth in good condotion, but a large cooked bone is always better. Its essentila that when feeding dried foods, a clean supply of water is made freelyavailable as little or no moisture ispresent in these types of foods.

FRESH FOODS : Cats love freshly cooked meat and fish and you could ofer fresh food as a twice-weekly alternative to formulated foods, in which case you can be sure of healthy balance. Make sure all foods is properly cooked to avoid stomach upsets and take remove all small bones. Large cooked bones are great fot the teeth and will help prevent the build up of tartar. The occasional can of tuna or sardines will also be a welcome treat.

GRASS : Anyone who knows cats will have noticed that they occassionally eat grass. It is thought that they do this to obtain folic acid and certain minerals., but cats usually vomit afterwards so it may be natures way of cleaning out system or getting rid of fur balls. Cats which live permanently indoors can be given a tray of grass grown especially for them in a seedbox