Mary Allen
How are cats fed properly? There are probably as many opinions on this question as there are cat owners. Everyone has their own experiences over time. Here’s a quick rundown of common myths about cat feeding and what’s really behind them.
Proper nutrition for cats is important. At the latest in old age, wrong feeding decisions become noticeable, and life expectancy also depends to a large extent on the right diet. But what exactly is a healthy diet for cats? Opinions often differ on this question.
“Hunger is the Best Cook”
The saying “Hunger is the best cook” doesn’t apply to cats. If they are only fed when they are very hungry, their reserves will be depleted. This can result in illness. It is important that a cat consumes the required amount of food and nutrients on a daily basis! Read here how to determine the right amount of food for your cat.
One Starvation Day Per Week
The famous “hunger day per week” is not appropriate for cats, especially if they are overweight. Cats need their nutrients on a daily basis, this is very important! The only exception is if the cat has vomited more often and its stomach is irritated. Then, after consultation with the veterinarian, fasting for 24 hours can help the stomach calm down again. But then the cat has to drink a lot.
Also, leaving uneaten cat food on the plate beyond recognition for the purpose of education is not a solution. On the one hand, this leads to frustration, both for the cat and the owner, and on the other hand, the cat can also upset its stomach.
If a cat won’t eat fresh food and it shows other behavioral problems or symptoms of illness, you should contact the veterinarian immediately. Loss of appetite is a common symptom of the disease. Even without any other symptoms, you must see a veterinarian if the cat consistently refuses its food.
“Raw is Unhealthy for Cats”
That’s not true. “Barfen” can be an alternative to ready-made feed. The only important thing is that you find out exactly what nutrients your cat needs and what it is not allowed to eat. Establish an individualized meal plan with a veterinarian or nutritionist.
“Within a Group, Each Cat Needs to See Where it is Staying”
In fact, the exact opposite of this myth is true: in a multi-cat household, the owner should urgently ensure that all cats are getting enough food. Each cat should have its own food bowl. There are now automatic feeders that only open for a specific cat.
“Vegetarian Diet Can Be Balanced With Additives.”
This myth is not true! On the contrary: A vegetarian or even vegan diet is by no means species-appropriate for cats. The organism of a cat is built on meat food, unlike humans or dogs, cats are not omnivores, but pure carnivores. The cat food must consist of high-quality meat and have a high meat content.
How Often Should Cats Be Fed?
One meal a day – this principle comes from dog ownership and has no place in cat nutrition. Cats are slow eaters and need to be left alone. Due to their natural prey behavior, they also eat several small meals a day. That’s why you should feed your cat at least twice a day and also have a small nighttime meal to keep the metabolism in balance – even if the cat is overweight. In this case, it’s not about “how much” but about “what”.