Feeding Adult Cats

Because cats tend to develop very rigid eating habits, your adult cat’s dietary preferences are likely to be influenced by how you have fed it during its growth and development. To prevent ‘addiction’ to 1 or 2 food items, which may be detrimental to your pet’s health in later years, provide some variety in its diet by offering different flavors of treats. Variety, however, should be provided in the form of various balanced cat foods, not by the addition of table foods.

The dietary needs of cats are different from those of dogs, and dog food does not supply the nutrients that cats need. Severe health problems can occur in cats fed dog food. Also, fish and milk are not the natural foods of cats, and do not provide an adequate diet when fed exclusively.

Several commercial cat foods are available that provide a complete and balanced diet for cats. Your veterinarian can recommend some of these and advise you if any supplementation is necessary to meet the needs of your particular cat.

Cats require much higher levels of protein in their diet than do dogs. Unfortunately, protein is the single most expensive ingredient in cat foods. Consequently, bargain brand or cheap cat foods contain low-grade, poorly digestible protein. For your cat’s good health, avoid the cheaper brands of cat foods.

Special diets are available for specific health needs. One will be recommended when required. Water must be available at all times and should be changed at least once daily.

How Much Should You Feed Daily?

In general, you can feed your cat according to the manufacturer’s directions, but under certain circumstances the directions should be modified. The amount will vary according to the age, activity, reproductive status, and general health. On the average, a relatively active, nonpregnant, nonlactating, 8-lb adult cat requires about 30 calories per pound body weight daily.

Different foods vary in their calorie content, but you can use the following general rules:

 

Dry cat food = 300 calories / cup

Semi-moist food = 125 calories/packet

Canned food = 200 calorie/6-1/2 oz

The doctor can help you determine the exact calories contained in a specific brand.

Risk of Disease in Cats

Identify the number of reported positive cases of Feline Leukemia, Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), and Feline Heartworm Disease in your county by visiting www.kittytest.com. You will be able to view the number of reported cases in the state, as well as individual counties.

Video Information on Common Cat Health Issues

Partners in Animal Health, developed by Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, has put together a website that offers cat specific health information on a variety of common gastrointestinal diseases, kidney disease, and a guide to managing destructive scratching behaviors. Visit the site at www.partnersah.vet.cornell.edu/pet.