The pet food industry is well developed and is likely to offer you a wide variety of pet foods according to, for example:
- Their age (kitten, adult, senior).
- Lifestyle (more or less sedentary animals, outdoors or not, etc.)
- Specific characteristics (to avoid hairball formation, to ensure good digestibility, etc.)
In addition, there are so-called veterinary diets for felines with certain health problems. This is the case for cats with kidney, liver, gastric or urinary problems. Or for those who have diabetes or suffer from allergies. In any of these cases, you should ask your vet for advice on the most suitable food for your pet. He/she should also explain the daily ration of food that your pet should receive to avoid overweight problems.
Diet for Kitten Health
- Protein: As we have already pointed out, they are vital for their good development and, as they cannot generate them on their own, they must always be in their diet. Proteins help with forming their muscles, skin, and coat. However, they must be exclusive of animal origin because only they contain the necessary amino acids. It is very important to know what type of protein to aim for in the feline’s welfare when the protein is of low quality; for example, if a food is made with butcher’s waste, this will cause liver and kidney damage in the future. For cats, fish is always preferable to chicken and beef because fish is a better source of omega fatty acids, which are beneficial for the heart, coat, skin, and eyes.
- Fats: All living things need fatty acids, and in the case of felines, it is their primary source of energy. The most important are arachidonic acid and linoleic acid because their bodies cannot produce them. Similarly, fats help vitamins A, D, E, and K to supply the cells. However, the amount of fat intake will vary depending on the cat’s age and physical condition in order to avoid being overweight.
- Vitamins and minerals: Make sure the food includes minerals such as phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium, as these help in the formation and proper functioning of your cat’s energy, bones, and nerves, respectively. For example, Vitamin A, is necessary for skin growth and repair, while vitamin E protects the skin from damage and vitamin C helps heal wounds.
- Carbohydrates: In nature, felines obtain these nutrients – and plant fibers – by eating their prey whole. In concentrated cat food, they are substituted with rice grains or corn gluten, among several options.
Types of Kitten Food
Wet food: Usually found in cans, this type of food is usually successful, although it is not advisable to feed a diet exclusively from cans. Special attention should be paid to the composition or buy from trusted brands. Wet food tends to increase the odor of the animal’s breath and feces, which are often too soft inconsistency.
Homemade food: Ideal to alternate with processed dry food. We can feed our cat with meat (roasted or cooked and boneless) or fish (cooked and boneless) seasoned with vegetables, pasta, or rice. Sporadically, some tinned sardines or even sausage, as long as it is cooked, such as ham or turkey, are not harmful.
Human food: Completely discouraged. Feeding our feline with the leftovers of our food is the worst option; not only will it not satisfy his needs, but it will also provide him with extra calories that could take their toll on him in the future.
Conclusion
- Regular visits to the veterinary doctor: These are essential to monitor any changes in kitten health.
- Vaccination: Several diseases can affect kitten health, but they can be prevented very easily with a complete vaccination schedule.
- Home conditions: It is important that your cat has enough space to run, climb and jump. It is important that he has his utensils within easy reach and that the place where he lives is very hygienic. It is also important how we treat them, as they are animals that can suffer from stress-related illnesses.
- Nutrition: This is one of the key factors for kitten health is the food they eat. Cats have sensitive stomachs and can easily lose their nutrient balance if the food is not suitable. We should always take into account the specific characteristics of our cat in order to be able to administer the best diet.
