What Can Cats Eat?

What Can Cats Eat? Cats can eat a variety of foods including meat, certain vegetables, and specially formulated cat food, which provides them with the essential nutrients they need for a balanced diet and overall health.

Understanding what cats can eat is crucial for ensuring they receive the right nutrition and stay healthy.

Understanding a Cat’s Diet

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require a diet that is high in meat and animal protein to thrive. Unlike omnivores or herbivores, cats have specific dietary needs that must be met through their food intake.

Protein Sources for Cats

Protein is the most important component of a cat’s diet. Cats require a higher level of protein than many other animals, and this protein should primarily come from animal sources.

• Meat: Cats can eat a variety of meats such as chicken, turkey, beef, and lamb. These meats are rich in protein and provide the essential amino acids cats need, including taurine, which is crucial for heart and eye health.

• Fish: Fish like salmon and tuna can be given to cats in moderation. They are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support a healthy coat and skin. However, fish should not be the main part of a cat’s diet due to the risk of mercury accumulation and other contaminants.

Dr. Jennifer Coates, a veterinarian, emphasizes, “Cats need a diet rich in animal-based proteins to meet their nutritional requirements. High-quality cat food that lists meat as the first ingredient is often the best choice for maintaining their health.”

Fruits and Vegetables for Cats

While cats are carnivores, they can eat some fruits and vegetables in small amounts. These can provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals, but should not replace meat in their diet.

• Safe vegetables: Some vegetables that cats can eat include cooked carrots, peas, and pumpkin. These can aid in digestion and provide additional nutrients.

• Safe fruits: Cats can have small amounts of fruits like blueberries, cantaloupe, and apples (without seeds). These can be given as occasional treats due to their sugar content.

Commercial Cat Food

Most pet owners feed their cats commercial cat food, which is formulated to meet all the nutritional requirements of cats. There are various types of cat food available, including dry kibble, canned wet food, and raw diets.

• Dry food (kibble): Dry cat food is convenient and has a longer shelf life. It can help with dental health by reducing plaque buildup. However, it typically contains less moisture than wet food, so it’s important to ensure your cat is drinking enough water.

• Wet food: Canned cat food contains more moisture, which helps keep cats hydrated, especially those that don’t drink a lot of water. It’s often more palatable and closer to a cat’s natural diet in terms of texture and flavor.
• Raw diets: Some pet owners choose to feed their cats a raw diet, consisting of raw meat, bones, and organs. While this can mimic a natural diet, it’s important to ensure it’s properly balanced to avoid nutritional deficiencies.

According to PetMD, a trusted source on pet health, commercially prepared cat foods are formulated to provide balanced nutrition for cats, including essential nutrients like taurine, arginine, and vitamin A.

Learn more about cat diet and nutrition on Wikipedia.

Foods to Avoid Feeding Cats

There are several foods that should be avoided when feeding cats, as they can be harmful or toxic.

Chocolate contains theobromine, which is dangerous and can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or seizures.

Onions and garlic, in any form, can cause anemia by damaging red blood cells, while grapes and raisins can trigger kidney failure.

Dairy products should also be avoided as many cats are lactose intolerant, which can result in digestive issues.

Additionally, raw eggs may carry harmful bacteria like salmonella, and raw bones can splinter, posing a risk of internal injury.

For more on which foods to avoid, see our guide to what cats cannot eat.

Feeding Cats: Tips and Best Practices

Feeding your cat a balanced diet is essential for their health, with portion control and a feeding schedule playing a key role in preventing overeating and obesity.

Cats, natural grazers, should have their food portions adjusted according to age, weight, and activity level, with adult cats typically fed twice a day, while kittens may need more frequent meals.

Hydration is also crucial, as cats tend to have a low thirst drive, so providing fresh water daily, or using a water fountain, can help increase water intake.

Incorporating wet food into their diet can also boost hydration due to its higher moisture content.

Conclusion

Cats can eat a variety of foods, including meat, some vegetables, and specially formulated cat food.

Their diet should be high in animal-based proteins to meet their nutritional needs.

While they can enjoy occasional treats like certain fruits and cooked vegetables, their primary diet should consist of quality cat food to ensure they receive all essential nutrients.

Avoid feeding them toxic foods like chocolate, onions, and dairy to keep them healthy and safe.

FAQs

Cats can eat small amounts of cooked rice, which may help with digestion, but it shouldn’t be a regular part of their diet as it lacks essential nutrients.

Tuna can be given as an occasional treat, but not as a primary food source due to the risk of mercury buildup and nutrient deficiencies.

Additionally, cats should not be fed dog food regularly since it lacks critical nutrients like taurine, which cats need to maintain their health.