Species nutrition
Cat Nutrition Fundamentals
Why obligate carnivores have non-negotiable nutrient needs, and how to feed a cat well in practice.
Obligate carnivore, in practical terms
Cats cannot make enough taurine, arachidonic acid or vitamin A from plant precursors, and they require higher protein than dogs even at maintenance. Vegan and poorly formulated homemade diets have caused blindness and fatal heart disease in cats.
Water matters more than people expect
Cats evolved on prey that was roughly 70% water and have a weak thirst drive. Wet food raises total water intake and supports urinary tract and kidney health. Wide shallow bowls away from food, and running water, both increase drinking.
How much and how often
Most indoor adult cats need roughly 40 to 55 kilocalories per kilogram of ideal body weight daily, but individual variation is wide. Cats naturally eat ten to twenty small meals a day, so split the ration and deliver part of it through puzzle feeders.
Changing food safely
Transition over seven to ten days. Cats form strong food preferences and can develop aversions if a new food is introduced during illness. Never let a cat go without food for more than 24 to 48 hours — hepatic lipidosis can follow.
References
- FEDIAF Nutritional Guidelines for Complete and Complementary Pet Food — European Pet Food Industry Federation