A cat requires good quality protein and nutrients. One of the prime nutrients is taurine. Lack of taurine can lead to serious health problems including blindness. Taurine is found in most cat foods with meat as its’ primary source. Do not put a cat on a vegetarian diet to help a cat lose weight. This will result in depriving the cat of getting enough taurine.
It was once thought that milk or cream is good for a cat. Most cats are lactose intolerant and digestive distress can occur from the milk or cream. Garlic was used to control fleas in a cat but it can cause anemia. Table scraps are not good to feed a cat because it is unknown if a cat can tolerate what is in the table food. A cat's dietary needs are different from humans.
Do not feed a cat raw fish or meat. Raw fish inhibits vitamin B1 which could cause brain damage. Raw fish also may contain parasites that could cause other health problems. Raw meat may contain salmonella or parasites from which various diseases might develop. Some of the parasites and diseases can be transferred to humans.
Like humans, feeding a cat vitamin supplements may or may not be effective. Vitamin A, D, calcium and phosphorous can be harmful to a cat if in excess. There is a variety of supplements available for a cat on the market. Check with a vet to determine if a cat needs a supplement and what is the best for a cat.
When a cat is not eating or eating very little, that could be a sign of a health problem. If the lack of eating coincides with weight loss, a condition called fatty liver may develop. Fatty liver can cause liver disease that could be fatal if left untreated. Consult a vet immediately if this occurs.
What should a cat eat? There are many choices including organic food on the market. Feed a cat what a cat will eat. Like humans, cats can be fussy about food. Take a cat to the vet annually to make sure a cat's diet is providing the right nutrients. Sometimes a cat might require a certain type of food for weight control or health problem.
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