Proper nutrition is important to your cats
health and well beign. Cts confined entirely indoors are wholly
dependent on their owners for food and are the ones most likely
to develop nutritional deficiencies. Those that roam outdoors
usually supplement their diets with rats, mice, other mammals
and birds. A basic knowledge of cat nutrition will help you
properly feed your cat.
Cats nutritional needs are very similar to
humans nutritional needs. These essential ingredients must be
part of a daily diet. Proteins, Carbs, vitamins, minerals and
fats need to be part of a daily diet plan.
Proteins:
The growth and repair of the body depend on proteins. Various
combinations of amino acids are its building blocks. The
different proteins are derived from approximately thent amino
acids in various combinations. Cats require more proteins than
dogs. Muscle meats and fillets of fish are excellent sources of
protein.
Carbohydrates: A
great source of energy are carbohydrates. It can be difficult
for cats to digest raw carbs. Therefore starchy foods such as
cereals and vegetables should be cooked.
Vitamins:
The normal nutrition of the cat are dependent on vitamins
Vitamin A
Poor appetite and
emaciation is a result if a deficiency of vitamin A. Inadequate
amounts of this vitamin can also cause weak hind legs, eyes and
lungs that are inflamed, and impairment of the hearing and
nervous system. Extreme shortgages of Vitamin A can even cause
death.
Vitamin B1
Many things can
happen as a result of low levels of this vitamin including
faulty coordination, poor appetite, vomiting, convulsions, heart
disorders, abnormal reflexes, etc. Some of the best sources for
this vitamin can be found in the outer shells and coats of
grain.