McAlester News-Capital, McAlester, OK

Features

July 5, 2008

Keep the cat happy

By Joyce McNally

Your cat can be kept happy and healthy if you feed it the right kind and amount of food. Cats’ teeth are shaped for cutting, tearing, and slicing. Domesticated cats need meat as part of their daily requirements. An average adult cat’s diet should include at least 28 percent protein, which helps regulate metabolism and build and repair tissue. At least nine percent of the daily intake should include fats, which transport vitamins through the body and help maintain a healthy coat. Carbohydrates provide energy and should be no more than 40 percent of your cat’s daily allowance. A premium-quality food will contain the correct percentages and also include vitamins and minerals.

Eating dry food will exercise a cat’s gums and help maintain dental health, but it only contains about ten percent water. In comparison, wet food contains 75 percent water on the average. Adequate water is important, especially for pets that are prone to urinary tract disease if they have been on a dry-only diet. Moist foods may be easier on older cats that have lost their teeth. If you do feed your cats wet food only, ASPCA experts recommend that you include a crunchy treat.

Make sure you pay attention to any special feeding requirements, no matter what type of food you use. Young cats need the nutrients found in kitten food and lactating mothers need extra calories. Just because your elderly cat’s metabolism is slowing down doesn’t mean you should cut back on her food intake. Some older cats might lose weight if they have digestive problems, so your veterinarian may prescribe a special diet.

Never feed dog food to your cat. It won’t meet the protein requirements and it won’t contain adequate levels of taurine, which is an essential amino acid. Inadequate levels of taurine in the diet have been linked to feline heart disease and blindness.

Always make sure your cat’s food is room temperature at feeding time. Cats have an excellent sense of smell and taste and may refuse food if it’s too hot or too cold, has an unpleasant odor, or has been left out too long. Throw away any wet food that hasn’t been eaten within 15 minutes.

The ASPCA recommends some healthy alternatives to store-bought treats. Some human foods are not appropriate for cats, but given in moderation, you can feed rice, small bits of string cheese, well-cooked hamburger, and skinned chicken breast. Avoid spicy and fatty foods and never give bones to your cat. Absolute no-nos are onions and chocolate which can be toxic. Fresh fruits and vegetables are good, especially for overweight cats. You might try carrot sticks, apples, and cooked green beans. Also among the favorites are fresh melon, corn, and cooked broccoli.

You can find further information on health needs at www.americanhumane.org or check with your local veterinarian.

Would you like to help eliminate pet overpopulation? Have your cat spayed or neutered. If you need financial assistance for a spay or neuter, call PAWS Connection to see if you qualify at 470-7297.

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