Essential Nutrients for Cats

Like other house pets, cats are susceptible to certain illnesses. Domestic felines can avoid subsequent trips to the veterinary clinic if they get nutritious food regularly. Commercial cat food promises some health benefits, but not all can give the right nutrition for your pet. Always remember to give the essential nutrients for cats so your feline friend can stay in top shape.   

Proteins

Cats are obligate carnivores and their diet consists of high amounts of protein. A kitten needs a steady supply of proteins for proper growth. When it reaches adulthood, this nutrient serves other important functions, such as muscle repair.  

Proteins can be classified further as essential amino acids. Two of the most important essential amino acids for domestic felines are taurine and arginine. Your pet requires a continuous intake of taurine for healthy eyes, heart, and reproductive organs. Arginine, on the other hand, allows the cat’s body to get rid of nitrogen-based waste products.    

Ideal sources of protein for your pet cat include chicken, duck, turkey, beef, and fresh fish. Eggs also provide protein, but they should not be ingested raw as this affects the feline’s metabolic processes. The processed cat food in stores may or may not come with essential amino acids and other proteins. Better cook some lean meat and serve it to the feline. 

Fats

You might be thinking that regular consumption of fats only leads to obesity and related health problems. The key here is to avoid giving them in excessive quantities. After all, cats still need the right amount of fats to stay healthy.

Fats provide cats much of the energy for running, playing, and other activities. Grooming a pet feline would also become easier as fats keep the hairs and skin in excellent condition. In wintry climates, this nutrient forms under the skin and offers protection from freezing temperatures. Moreover, fats accumulate in the linings of your cat’s internal organs.   

Meats contain fat, but some kinds of meat have higher amounts of it than others. Poultry, along with fish, should constitute the bulk of the domestic feline’s diet to prevent obesity. Commercial cat foods have labels so you can properly manage the fat intake of your pet.   

Vitamins

Domestic felines also need vitamins A, D, E, and K, which facilitate vital bodily processes, such as digestion and immunity. A steady supply of fats is necessary so your pet cat can make use of these nutrients. While you must get lots of vitamin C for boosting the immune system, the feline body produces it naturally in sufficient levels.    

Cats may be carnivores but small servings of vegetables would be helpful in providing vitamins. Cook up some carrots, broccoli, asparagus, squash, and string beans for your furry friend. You may consider vitamin supplements that can be bought at pet supply stores. If a pet cat dines on commercial pet foods with high vitamin content, supplements are not necessary anymore.

Proteins, fats, and vitamins do wonders to the cat’s body. Additional carbohydrates and minerals are also important for excellent health. Your pet may lap up water from a bowl but it still gets most of its water from moist food. Consult a veterinarian when encountering issues with your cat’s nutrition.