My Bestfriend

Cats are obligate carnivores and need nutrients found on animal tissues to meet their specific nutritional requirements. Their diet is very different from dogs and humans. Every cat owner should put a lot of thought into what they feed their feline companions as it can have a huge impact on the pet’s lifetime and very possibly help them avoid serious, painful and costly illnesses.

Responsible pet ownership advocate, Shaun Olmstead, shares important tips on feeding pet cats. Olmstead says that it is imperative to provide cats with good quality cat food
whether it is wet, dry or some of both. He also warns owners never to give their cats with dog food as it won’t meet the feline’s nutritional needs, and can make it sick.

The rule of thumb is to feed your cat twice a day. Discard any leftover wet food that hasn’t been eaten after half an hour.

Olmstead also warns against giving commercially available treat as these can contain lots of sugar and fat, which can pack on the pounds. Instead, he suggests providing fresh fruits and vegetables, like broccoli, corn or cantaloupe as healthier snack items.

It is also important to provide cats with fresh and clean water at ALL times. Water helps regulate body temperature, digest food, eliminate waste, lubricate tissue, and allow salt and other electrolytes to pass through the body. Change the bowl at least once a day.

Below is a list of food items that can be harmful to your cat:

• Chocolates
• Bones
• Avocado
• Coffee
• Raisins and grapes
• Moldy or spoiled food
• Salt
• Garlic
• Onions, onion powder

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