Canned cat food is the best for your cat. It contains all essential nutrients and minerals in appropriate quantities. It also contains sufficient water. Canned cat food is available in three (3) different types:
- Crunchy nuggets are available as dry food or kibble. You can store these packages at room temperature for many weeks. They are economical and you can leave it in your cat’s feeding bowl all-day without it getting spoiled. Such crunchy food prevents formation of dental plaque. However, it could cause bladder stones if eaten to excess.
- Wet canned food: can stay okay for a long period if you do not open it. Once you open it, you can store left overs in the refrigerator for no more than a day. It should be put inside an airtight container. Any leftover or uneaten canned food on cat’s food bowl should be discarded after fifteen to twenty minutes. It could accumulate harmful bacteria. You can add a little cooked pasta, rice or potatoes to regular canned food to add to the taste and nutrition value. .
- Semi moist canned food is essentially wet nuggets. It is available in individual meal-size pouches. Some of them are in different colors and shapes. You can store them in resealable containers at room temperature. Such food is not very high in nutrition.
Additional Foods for Your Cat
A few extra special foods here and there can add flavor to your cat’s diet. You can give a few bits of tuna fish once-in-awhile if your cat does not have any urinary tract problems. Strained meat, minced chicken or turkey, poultry baby foods and white rice are good for a recuperating cat. Always check for any bones as bones could lodge within the cat’s throat and choke it. Special treats include canned mackerel, herring, or sardines, chicken giblets, cheese, and vegetables in small quantities. Fresh water is essential for your cat. Keep a bowl of fresh, clean water always readily available. Change water every morning.
Essential Tips
- Never feed dog food to your cat, as dog food lacks taurine and necessary proteins.
- Do not feed leftovers from your plate, as it could upset your cat’s digestive system.
- Do not give chocolates, spicy and oily food, or onions to your cat.
- Do not give raw egg whites, uncooked fish, beef, pork, poultry, or meats not approved by your vet. Kittens require many small feeds during the day. Keep dry food available all through the day. Adult cats could do with a single meal each day.
- Maintain a specific feeding schedule for your cat.
- Always give food to your cat in a clean bowl. Feed it in the same bowl and at the same time and place.
- Do not allow children to come near your cats while feeding, or to try to disturb or distract them in any manner.