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5 Most Important Nutrients to Include In Your Cat’s Diet

As a pet parent, it’s crucial to ensure that your cat gets all the essential nutrients it needs. You can’t just feed your cat kibble, but you need to ensure they are getting the vitamins and minerals necessary to stay healthy and live a long life.

If you don’t give your cat the necessary nutrients, it can lead to deficiencies and various health problems. That will not only result in your cat not feeling its best but also put a strain on the pocket and wallet. Thus, to ensure your cat is well taken care of and has a healthy diet, here are the essential nutrients to include in their meals.

Protein

Protein is a crucial nutrient for cats as it helps to build and maintain muscle mass, which is essential for them to stay active and healthy. Ensure your cat’s diet contains high-quality animal proteins such as chicken, beef, fish, eggs, and turkey.

To find quality cat food, look for a store-bought option that is labeled as AAFCO-approved (Association of American Feed Control Officials), such as those available at the Black Hawk pet care website and other cat food retailers.

You can find various food options on the website that are specifically formulated for cats of all ages. And all the products are made using high-quality ingredients that meet AAFCO’s nutritional guidelines.

Some signs that your cat needs more protein are weight loss, dull coat, and tiredness. Thus, remember to include quality animal proteins in your cat’s diet. A decent amount to aim for is 30-50% of its total calorie intake.

Vitamins

Cats need vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, B complex vitamins, and Vitamin C. They are essential for cats’ overall health and help them stay strong, healthy, and active. Most store-bought cat foods are fortified with vitamins and minerals to ensure that your cat gets all the essential nutrients it needs.

You can also give your cat a daily supplement of multivitamins formulated explicitly for cats if you feel that they are not getting enough from their food. Kittens must get the right amount of vitamins and minerals as they grow and develop.

Carbohydrates

Cats don’t need carbohydrates in their diet, but they can benefit from them if given in moderation. Carbohydrates provide energy, fiber, and essential nutrients like B vitamins that cats need. They also help keep cats full and satisfied for longer.

When choosing cat food, look for one that contains healthy sources of carbohydrates like pumpkin, brown rice, and oats. Avoid foods with simple carbs like corn syrup or white flour, as these are not beneficial for cats. They will cause your cat to gain weight, leading to other health problems like diabetes and obesity.

Don’t just feed your cat carbohydrates for the sake of giving them energy, but look for healthy sources that are beneficial.

Fats

Cats need fats to stay healthy and get the energy they need to stay active. Fats provide essential fatty acids, like omega-3 and omega-6, which are essential for cats’ skin and coat health. You can also find quality fat sources in store-bought cat food, such as chicken and fish oils.

Some foods also contain plant-based fats like canola and sunflower oils, which are healthy and provide the same benefits as animal-based fat sources. With fatty acids, it’s essential to ensure that you get the right balance of omega-3 and omega-6 in your cat’s diet.

Including at least 10-20% of fats in your cat’s diet is recommended, but make sure you don’t go over 30%, as this can lead to obesity. You wouldn’t want your furry friend to become overweight, so make sure you monitor its fat intake.

Water

Finally, water is for cats as it helps to keep them hydrated and regulates their body temperature. Make sure that your cat always has access to fresh water, either from a bowl or a pet fountain. Change the water regularly and make sure it is clean so that your cat stays healthy and safe.

You can’t keep a cat healthy without enough hydration and nutrition. Thus, ensure you provide them with water at least once a day and all the necessary nutrients they need in their diet. With a balanced diet and plenty of water, you can ensure that your cat lives a long, happy, and healthy life.

Final Thoughts

Feeding your cat a balanced diet is essential for its health and well-being. With the right mix of protein, vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, fats, and water, your cat can lead a healthy life. Just make sure you check the labels of any food you buy and consult with a veterinarian if needed. That way, your cat will remain healthy for many years to come, and you can enjoy your life together.

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