Balanced Diet

What you feed your cat will have a direct influence on its overall health and happiness. Cats who receive a poor diet can suffer all kinds of health and immune disorders, and even behavioral problems. Therefore a balanced diet is essential.

Cats do best on a high protein diet, and that protein is best sourced from meat. Cats require about 35% protein in their diet, a lot more than humans and even dogs. Cats also need 8% to 10% fat and about 30% to 40% carbohydrates.

Most supermarket cat foods (canned and dry) contain an adequate balance of ingredients to meet your cat's nutritional needs, however it's important to read the labels to make sure.

Tips for providing a balanced diet for your cat include:

• Check cat food labels to make sure the primary ingredient (first listed) is meat. Avoid those foods with cereal or grain listed as the primary ingredient.
• Avoid cat foods with a lot of preservatives.
• Make sure your cat always has clean water - change it regularly.
• Your cat's food dishes should always be clean and hygienic. Wash bowls daily with soap and water and rinse thoroughly.