Cats are a unique animal, especially when it comes to their diet. Domestic cats are not very different from their wild cousins in that they are use to eating almost a total meat diet. Their whole digestive system is geared for this type of diet. Domestication has not really changed how cats need to eat. They require a high level of dietary protein with different nutritional needs. Cats will not prosper on a low protein diet and will use their own body protein if not fed enough. Feeding cats on dog food will cause health problems because the diet is different.
One of the two essential nutrients for cats is an amino acid called arginine. This nutrient is used by the cat to manage a particular waste product that comes from protein breakdown. A single meal with too small an amount of arginine can cause lethargy, hypersalivation and increased meowing.
The other nutrient that is required by cats is the amino acid taurine. A cat cannot make enough taurine on its own so it must be supplied by the diet. A deficiency in taurine can case damage to major organs such as the heart. Since this amino acid is found mostly in meat, it lends evidence to the fact that cats are very much carnivores.
Trying to find the optimum diet for your cat will involve trial and error. Cats will eat the amount of food they need for their individual energy requirements. Most veterinarians believe that the suggested amounts of food on cat food should be used a general guideline. If you notice your cat getting a bit on the large side, try cutting down the amount per serving. This should be done gradually though. Factors such as the age of the cat, their metabolism or even the weather can change their nutritional requirements.
A fresh supply of clean water is essential to a healthy cat. Water is used to aid in digestion and absorption of nutrients. It also helps to regulate their body temperature and keeps the elimination system functioning properly. It should be available around the clock, even if they drink milk as well.
An average cat's weight is around seven to nine pounds. They can be very meticulous about what they eat. The smell, taste and texture of the food will make a big difference to them. Like people, cats tend to have preferences and will not eat well if their owner strays too far from what they consider normal. The odor of the food is probably the biggest factor as their sense of smell is far superior to humans. If they are eating a mostly dry food diet, be sure to leave out their food for a couple of hours at a time because they tend to be nibblers.
If a cat develops a condition such as urinary tract problem, they may have to be placed on a special diet. To have a good chance of a successful diet switch, gradually replace their regular food with the new one. This technique may not work if the diet food is just not tasty to the cat and another brand may be required. A loss of appetite is usually not a problem for adult cats unless it goes longer than a couple of days. A checkup may be required to determine what is wrong.
