Trevor, Author at Best Cat Foods Advisor

12 Worst Cat Food Ingredients (You Must Know)

Trevor Cat Food, Cat Health, Uncategorized, What to look for in Cat Food Guide September 2, 2023worst cat food, worst ingredients

12 Worst Cat Food Ingredients (Know These Things)

Knowing what food is best for your cat can be complexing when there are so many different cat foods available on the market. They are advertised as being healthy, well-balanced cat foods with the best ingredients. But are they? In this article we give our view on what we consider to be the worst cat food ingredients.

It is important to educate yourself on cat food ingredients and then read the cat food labels carefully before deciding on a particular cat food.

The worst cat food ingredients to avoid (no particular order)

Carrageenan

This ingredient is added to wet cat foods as a gravy thickener.

Carrageenan is considered to be carcinogenic and can cause inflammatory problems leading to Colitis, Arthritis and IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). It may also damage parts of the digestive tract and organs such as the liver and kidneys.

Carrageenan has been used in laboratories to trigger cancer in their test animals.

Carrageenan is in most canned pet foods. The manufacturers will tell you that they use the “Safe” form of Carrageenan. However, there is no real “safe” form as it converts to an unsafe form in the cat’s digestive system.

Meat Meal/By-product

Real meat should always be the first ingredient listed on cat food labels. When the meat ingredient isn’t named, then you do not know what they have put in the food.

Often by-products are organ meats such as brains, kidneys, and hearts – which are all great for cats, however, if the by-product isn’t named, then what you are getting may not be beneficial to your cats.

Meat and bone meal is generally the leftover parts of the animal after the meat has been removed. Again, it is better to know what this is.

Remember, cats are obligate carnivores. They are only meant to eat animals. In the wild they will eat pretty much the whole body of small animals, gaining nutrients from blood, bones, organs, and meat.

Too Much Fish

Fish, in general, should not be fed to cats – except maybe occasionally. Fish is not a natural food for cats. Cats in the wild are hunters – not “fishers” (Except occasionally).

Cats cannot Digest or Metabolize fish well – so fish leaves a lot of by-products in the blood. Which must be cleared out by the kidneys and liver – putting extra stress on these organs.

Large predatory fish like tuna can accumulate mercury in their systems. When consumed by cat’s this toxin will accumulate in the cat’s body. Not all large predatory fish will have this toxin in them, however it is better to er on the safe side and minimize how much you feed to your cat.

Avoid any foods containing salmon or salmon oils (unidentified fish or oils are generally from salmon). This is because the salmon will be farm-raised. Farm-raised salmon contain carcinogens.

It is common for cats to have a fish allergy.

Feeding fish to cats can be very dangerous for them. Check out this website that talks about why.

Liver

Avoid foods that contain Liver – unless it’s organic or from poultry. Liver can harbor toxins from the animal it’s from. Poultry does not live that long, so, liver from poultry will tend to ok.

Synthetic Preservatives

BHT (butylated hydroxy anisole), BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) and Ethoxyquin are three nasty chemical preservatives commonly found in cat foods. BHA and BHT are chemicals added to fats as preservatives.

According to California’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, BHT is a known carcinogens and reproductive toxicants. BHT is also a carcinogen and causes liver and kidney damage in rats.

Ethoxyquin is illegal to use in human foods in USA, however, it is still legally added to pet foods. Reports indicate that it is harmful if swallowed or if it directly contacts the skin. Ethoxyquin often enters through the ingredient ‘fish meal’ and may not even appear on the label.

Another one to look out for is Propylene Glycol (PG). It is a humectant (moistening agent) found in some soft cat foods and treats. It is derived from ethylene glycol (EG) – antifreeze. PG is toxic to animals. Note, this ingredient is touted as non-toxic and non-absorbent for your pet. But consuming ‘pet-safe’ antifreeze’ will not ensure your cat’s health.

Food Dyes

Blue 2, Red 40, Yellow 5 and 6, have been linked to allergic reactions, behavior problems, and cancer in humans.

4-methylimidazole (4-MIE) can be found in the color caramel. 4-MIE is known to be poisonous to animals.

Grains

Most cat foods will contain grains being touted as being beneficial to cats for the carbohydrates they provide. Once again, we must point out that cats are obligate carnivores.

Cats have difficulty digesting carbs from grains. Cats generally get all the carbs they require from meat.

In addition, many cats have an intolerance to wheat and corn gluten. As with humans with this condition, it can lead to itchy skin, vomiting and diarrhea.

Other forms of grain such as rice can impair taurine (an essential amino acid that cats get from meat) absorption.

Some cat food companies say their products are grain free, but this doesn’t mean they are carb free. They will use vegetables such as potato, pumpkin, and peas. Cats are unable to produce amylase in their saliva needed to break down carbs.

Food labels will sometimes say the vegetables provide protein for cats (cat’s require high protein in their diets). The protein from vegetables (and legumes) is not the type of protein that cats require.

Something else to mention, grains will likely have traces of chemicals like glyphosate on them. These disrupt the gut flora and fauna that can lead to immune problems. In addition, GMO ingredients tend to have a greater load of glyphosate.

Rendered Fat

The process of rendering separates fat, removes water and kills pathogens. The fat that is removed goes into pet food as “animal fat”. This will be named as: chicken fat, beef fat etc.

Rendered products are deemed “unfit for human consumption”. If we shouldn’t eat it, then should our pets? Rendered cat food products typically have relatively high protein levels, however, the quality of those proteins is often questionable.

Rendered products may be listed as meat meal or by-product.

Legumes

Legumes such as peas, lentils, soybeans, and chickpeas, are a common ingredient in commercial cat food. They are promoted as being high in carbs and proteins for your cat. Cats don’t require the carbs and the protein is not one cats can easily digest.

Legumes are known to cause diarrhoea and have been linked to kidney damage.

Small amounts in cat food will not harm your cat.

Vegetable Oils

Sunflower, canola, and olive oil in cat food offers no benefit to cats. They are unable to absorb the Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.

Cellulose

Cellulose is used as a thickener in cat food. The cellulose used is derived from powdered woodchips. Cats cannot absorb it and it can block the digestive system causing constipation.

Vitamin C (last but not least of the worst cat food ingredients)

Cat foods formulated with added Vitamin C are offering no benefit to cats. They don’t need it like us humans. It can cause urinary blockages. Cranberries, often listed as an ingredient, is high in Vitamin C.

Final Thoughts on the Worst Cat Food Ingredients

It is almost impossible to avoid all the above worst cat food ingredients in commercial foods. Read the labels and seek cat foods that have fewer of the less beneficial ingredients.

When starting your cat out on a new food, be vigilant and note if it reacts negatively to it. Always look for natural foods with real meat as its first ingredients. Cats require lots of protein, and meat provides the best kind of protein.

Think; what would a cat be eating in the wild, and seek to offer a diet that replicates that!

If you want to check ingredients on the internet – you can usually find ingredient listings on Chewy.com

Home Cooked Diet For Cats (Feline Feast or Folly)

Trevor Cat Food, Cat Health, What to look for in Cat Food Guide August 30, 2023August 30, 2023home cooked, raw cat food

Many people question why pet owners tend to buy commercial foods for their feline rather than opting to a home cooked diet for cats, offering natural fresh meats.

The main reason is it is way easier to open a can of cat food or pour kibble, than preparing a homemade meal for a cat. But also, cat food is formulated to offer a balanced diet for felines. It has more nutrients required by cats than just ‘meat’.

The interest in homemade food for cats is on the rise. It is important to realize, however, that homemade pet food does not always mean healthy.

Let’s delve into why this is so…

Obligatory Carnivores

Cats are obligatory carnivores. They do require essential nutrients in meat to live. Without meat they will get ill.

Cats need more than just the ‘muscle meat’. Most people, when giving fresh meat to their cats, only offer ‘muscle meat’ and think that this is all they require to survive.

When cats hunt, they do not selectively eat only the mouse steaks or bird fillets. They eat much more of their prey, including the organs, intestines and bones. Pretty much everything!

Minerals from bones

Cats get much, if not all, of their calcium from bones (and other minerals). Cat stomach acids leach these minerals out of the bones.

The bones are frequently enveloped and regurgitated in hairballs – as well as whatever fur or feathers the cat may have also swallowed. If some bones end up passing into the lower digestive tract they are typically already demineralized and softened.

That does not mean that a cat can never get harmed by bones. Or that it is a good idea to offer your cat bones from a cow, or large chicken bones – especially if they are cooked.

The bones that cats can manage to eat safely are small. They need to be small enough that they can chew through them. Think mouse sized!

What happens when giving cats a home cooked diet for cats with just meat?

A mistake that well-meaning people make is the feeding of unbalanced homemade diets.

That is because when making cat food from scratch, many people fail to balance the meat with the correct amount of calcium, forgetting that in the wild, a cat would be eating both the meat and bones of their prey, thus providing a proper calcium-to-phosphorus ratio.

A cat diet too heavy in tuna, liver, or liver oil (such as cod liver oil), can lead to vitamin A toxicosis, resulting in bone and joint pain, brittle bones, and dry skin.

A diet too rich in raw fish can destroy vitamin B1. This can cause muscle weakness, seizures, or even brain damage. If a cat owner wishes to make their pet’s food, they need to understand and follow a properly balanced recipe.

This is similar to well-meaning people rescuing and raising wildlife. For example, with baby owls: when fed just meat, the owlets’ bones don’t develop properly. There have been instances where hand raised owlets have been found to be in such a poor state that their soft boned legs are unable to support them. Owls eat a similar diet to cats in the wild. They also consume all parts of their prey’s body.

Rather than a home cooked diet for cats, what about a raw diet?

In addition to the risk of nutrient deficiencies, raw diets pose other risks for cats. Any bones not completely ground up could cause intestinal blockages or even lacerations.

Plus, raw foods are more likely to be contaminated with harmful bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli and Listeria. The food requires careful consideration with storage and refrigeration.

A true home cooked diet for cats

A true homemade diet for cats must include much of what a feline in the wild would eat: muscle meat, organs and bones. Uncooked wild prey is high in protein and moisture. It also contains essential substances that are found in meat, such as taurine, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.

Are all commercial cat foods good for your cat?

Throughout our website we review many different cat foods. When looking at ingredients it is clear that there are many excellent commercial cat foods on the market carefully formulated by animal nutritionists and provide a full spectrum of nutrients to keep cats healthy.

Also, there are some that we feel don’t offer a healthy balanced diet, or have ingredients that are not naturally found in a cat’s diet. Some cat foods are bulked-up using grains and vegetables, which are not ideal for carnivorous cats.

It is important to read the ingredient list to identify what is in the food and where it is sourced from. Artificial coloring, flavors and preservatives may also be harmful. Seek foods with natural additives.

The first ingredient should always be a quality real meat. Avoid meat meal substitutes.

Also, seek foods that include organ meats and have a range of essential ingredients such as amino acids, minerals, taurine and vitamins.

If giving your cat tinned foods with oily fish, then look to also provide foods that don’t contain fish. This will reduce the risk of vitamin deficiencies.

Refer to our ‘Cat Food Appraisal Tool’ to better understand what to look for in a quality cat food – and more importantly, what to avoid!

Final thoughts

Whether you choose to buy a quality commercial pet food or decide that a home cooked diet for cats is best, it is essential to do your homework to ensure the food is safe and offers a well-balanced diet.

To add variety to your cat’s diet, you could consider offering your pet a mixture of home cooked and commercial foods. That way you’ll cover all bases and keep your cat interested!

5 Best Blue Buffalo Healthy Gourmet Cat Food Reviews

Trevor Best Wet Cat Foods, Blue Buffalo Cat Food, Cat Food January 20, 2023January 20, 2023blue buffalo, gourmet cat food

When it comes to finding the best food for your cat, there are a lot of factors to consider. With so many different brands and formulas on the market, it can be hard to know where to start. In this article we delve into the Blue Buffalo brand, providing Blue Buffalo Healthy Gourmet cat food reviews on five select products.

You can’t go wrong with Blue Buffalo healthy gourmet cat food if you’re looking for a healthy and delicious option for your feline friend. Buffalo is a lean source of protein- rich in nutrients and flavor that cats love.

Blue Buffalo company is one of the leading providers of Buffalo-based cat food, and their products are available in various formulations to meet your cat’s unique needs.

The company wrote on its website, “When we promised our boy Blue we’d create the healthiest food we possibly could; we made that promise to you and your pets. Our team of veterinarians and animal nutritionists carefully selects only the highest quality natural ingredients for every recipe we make”.

To help you choose the right food for your feline friend, we’ve compiled a list of the five best healthy gourmet buffalo cat foods

So, without further ado, let’s take a closer look at the five best healthy gourmet buffalo cat foods.

Selected Blue Buffalo Healthy Gourmet Cat Food Reviews

Blue Buffalo Product	Customer Ratings Average	Good For
Healthy Gourmet Natural Adult Flaked Wet Cat Food Tuna	4.5 STARS	Wet food, All breeds sizes, High-quality protein, All natural ingredients, No preservative, No artificial flavor, Grain-free
Healthy Gourmet Natural Adult Flaked Wet Cat Food Tuna	4.5 STARS	Grain-free, All natural, Wet food, No preservative, Chicken, All breeds sizes.
Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Pate Wet Cat Food Variety Pack, Chicken	4.3 STARS	Rich protein, Wet food, Chicken, salmon, duck, turkey, No wheat, No preservative, No artificial color.
Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Indoor Hairball Control Dry Cat Food, Chicken	4.7 STARS	Chicken, All breeds sizes, No grain, Rich in protein, Rich inOmega3 & 6 fatty acid.
Wilderness Wild Delights High Protein, Grain-Free, Natural Adult Meaty Morsels Wet Cat Food, Chicken & Turkey	4.4 STARS	Chicken & turkey, All breeds sIzes, Wet food, No grain, All natural, No preservative, Natural ingredients.

Review of Our Picks

Here is a review of our top picks

1. Blue Buffalo Healthy Gourmet Natural Adult Flaked Wet Cat Food Tuna

Cats are obligate carnivores, requiring animal-based proteins to satisfy their nutritional needs. Blue Buffalo’s Tuna recipe is formulated to provide your cat with the high-quality protein she needs to maintain lean muscles and a healthy weight.

In addition to tuna, this formula also contains salmon and whitefish for a delicious and nutritious meal that your cat is sure to love.

As with all Blue Buffalo formulas, this Tuna recipe does not contain chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy. You can feel confident that you are feeding your cat only the best ingredients with Blue Buffalo Healthy Gourmet Natural Adult Flaked Wet Cat Food Tuna.

Pros

It contains DHA to promote cognitive development

Rich in high-quality protein
Made from the finest natural ingredients
No preservatives or artificial flavors

Support healthy muscle maintenance

Cons

Some cats do not like the odor

Buy on Amazon

2. Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain Free, Natural Mature Pate Wet Cat Food

Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain Free, Natural Mature Pate Wet Cat Food is an excellent choice for your mature cat.

It is packed with delicious chicken and turkey, fruits and vegetables, and is grain and gluten-free. The high protein content helps support lean muscle mass and ensures your cat stays healthy and active.

This wet food also contains Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin. Plus, it has no artificial colors or flavors.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain Free, Natural Mature Pate Wet Cat Food is a great way to give your mature cat the nutrition they need for a long, healthy life.

Pros

High protein content

Grain and gluten-free
Omega-rich for a healthy coat
No artificial colors or flavors

Cons

It is expensive

Buy on Amazon Buy on Chewy

3. Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Pate Wet Cat Food Variety Pack, Chicken, Salmon, Duck

Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Pate Wet Cat Food Variety Pack, Chicken, Salmon, Duck is a type of food that helps give your cat the energy it needs to live an active lifestyle.

This food contains high levels of protein and fat, which can help your cat maintain its muscle mass and build new muscle tissue. In addition, the variety pack provides your cat with various flavors to choose from, so it can never get boring with its food.

The wet food also helps keep your cat hydrated, which is essential for its overall health.

Overall, Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Pate Wet Cat Food Variety Pack, Chicken, Salmon, Duck is a great option for cats who need a high-protein diet to maintain their health and vitality.

Pros

Gives energy to adult cat
Rich in vitamins and minerals

High protein and fat content
Builds new muscle tissue
It helps keep your cat hydrated

The variety pack provides different flavors

Cons

Some cats react to this meal

Buy on Amazon Buy on Chewy

4. Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Indoor Hairball Control Dry Cat Food, Chicken

As any cat owner knows, hairballs can be a real nuisance. They are unsightly and can also be dangerous if your cat swallows too much fur.

That’s why feeding your cat food helps control hairballs is essential. Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Indoor Hairball Control Dry Cat Food, Chicken is formulated to help reduce hairballs by promoting healthy digestion.

The food is made with high-quality ingredients like chicken and fish meal, which are rich in protein and nutrients. In addition, the food contains natural fiber to help reduce hair shedding and promote healthy digestion.

As a result, Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Indoor Hairball Control Dry Cat Food, Chicken is an excellent choice for cats prone to hairballs.

Pros

It helps maintain lean muscle mass

Reduces hairballs
High-quality ingredients
Rich in protein and nutrients

Natural fiber to reduce hair shedding

Cons

Some cats don’t like the taste

Buy on Amazon Buy on Chewy

5. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Wild Delights High Protein, Grain-Free, Natural Adult Meaty Morsels Wet Cat Food, Chicken & Turkey

Most people consider pets part of the family, and their health is a priority. What they eat affects their overall health like food does for people.

That is why Blue Buffalo Wilderness Wild Delights High Protein, Grain-Free, Natural Adult Meaty Morsels Wet Cat Food, Chicken & Turkey is a top pick by veterinarians.

This food is made with only the finest natural ingredients and never chicken (or poultry) by-product meals. It also contains high protein to help support strong muscles and omega 3 & 6 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat.

In addition, this food is grain-free and has no artificial flavors or preservatives. Blue Buffalo’s Wilderness Wild Delights wet cat food is available in various flavors your cat will love.

Choose from chicken, turkey, duck, or salmon. Your cat will enjoy the taste of the wild with this wet food.

Pros

Made with only the finest natural ingredients
High protein to help support strong muscles
Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids promote healthy skin and coat

Grain-free and has no artificial flavors or preservatives
Available in various flavors

Cons

It makes some cats vomit

Buy on Amazon

Final Comments

Blue Buffalo Healthy Gourmet cat food reviews: These are five of the best healthy gourmet buffalo cat foods for 2022. The products selected are high in protein and nutrients and can help your cat stay fit and active.

If you are looking for food to help reduce hairballs, we recommend Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Indoor Hairball Control Dry Cat Food, and Chicken.

And if you want food that your cat will love, we recommend Blue Buffalo Wilderness Wild Delights High Protein, Grain-Free, Natural Adult Meaty Morsels Wet Cat Food, Chicken & Turkey.

Whichever food you choose, make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure it is the right food for your cat’s individual requirements.

Can Cats Eat Dog Food? (What You Need to Know)

Trevor Cat Food, Cat Health August 14, 2022August 14, 2022dog food

Can cats eat dog food? It is one of those reoccurring questions most veterinarians hear from feline owners. Although the straightforward answer to this question is yes, there is more you need to know.

Cats are pretty different from dogs in terms of nutritional needs. So, while a taste of dog food will not harm your cat, it doesn’t add to their dietary requirements.

Can cats eat dog food? What are the benefits?

Dogs and cats are humans’ best companions. However, our feline and canine friends are very different regarding behavior and nutritional needs.

Dogs are omnivores, meaning their diet can oscillate between animal and plant products. On the other hand, cats are carnivores which implies that they thrive on a diet of meat-based proteins and animal fats for their body to function optimally.

The implication of this is that a commercial food that is complete and balanced for a dog would be nutritionally imbalanced for cats.

The differences between cat food and dog food

The formulation in cat food and dog food is different. Here is a quick look at some of them;

1. Protein

Cats are obligate carnivores, so they need high amounts of protein to stay healthy. Unfortunately, while some dog food contains high protein levels, they do not have as many protein concentrations found in cat food.

2. Taste

Cats cannot sense sweetness due to their low number of taste receptors. For this reason, cat food is specifically designed to be highly delicious for cats to eat.

3. Taurine

Dog food does not always contain taurine because dogs can produce it themselves. Cats require taurine to survive, and unfortunately, their bodies cannot make it. Cats that lack taurine in their diets may suffer the loss of vision, digestion problems, and weakened hearts. Today, all commercially available cat food has taurine in them.

4. Vitamin A

Cats need vitamins as a dietary supplement. However, they are unable to produce it on their own. Therefore, while dog food contains vitamin A, this is never enough to support the optimal nutritional requirements of cats.

5. Niacin

Just like other essential nutrients, cats cannot produce niacin, so they rely on well-formulated cat food for it. Unfortunately, dog food would not give cats the proper levels of niacin they need.

6. Arachidonic acid

Cats cannot create this fatty acid, so they must rely on specially formulated cat food to get this essential nutrient.

Is it safe for cats to eat dog food?

A morsel of dog food would not do any harm to cats. However, there is some vital information you need to know;

1. Every cat is distinct with differing tolerances

A cat’s tolerance for food varies. While some cats may consume specific food without a problem, others may eat the same and experience several health issues.

2. Dog food is only safe for healthy cats

Cats with health challenges shouldn’t eat dog food. It can adversely affect their health and not provide the nutrients they need to get better.

3. Serving size and frequency are important

Cats who develop a long-term habit of eating dog food instead of cat food will be deprived of the nutrients their bodies require, and their health will deteriorate.

Are there foods on the market suitable for both dogs and cats?

Our view shared throughout this article is that commercial pet food products are each formulated for a specific type of animal.

Having said that, there are products sold where the manufacturer claim that their formulas are suitable for both dogs and cats.

Although, we are not an advocate of these products, we have found a product from Wysong that appears to consider the ingredient requirements for felines as well as canines in their recipe.

The Wysong canine/feline dry food is high in protein and has included probiotics, vitamins and minerals, and taurine. Its first ingredient is chicken meal, not real chicken meat (which would be our preference).

The ingredient list indicates 15% fat from chickens. This is a high fat content, which may not suit inactive cats or cats that are prone to obesity.

Pet owners have given it an average rating of 4.4 STARS.

Wysong Canine/Feline Formulated Dry Food

Life stage and pet food

The Association of American Feed Control Officials helps monitor and regulate the pet food industry.

AAFCO collaborates with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to determine which pest food are considered complete and balanced for a particular life stage.

AAFCO-certified foods are whole and balanced for the life stages indicated. Feed felines only AAFCO-approved cat food. Scrutinize the food label for information on life food information.

Choose a food label for growth or all life stages if you have a kitten, pregnant cat, or nursing cat. There are three main groups of life stages in the pet food industry. They include:

Growth
Maintenance

All life stages

Cats have specific overall protein, vitamin, and nutritional needs, which vary throughout their life stages.

Fast-growing kittens require more nutrients and energy sources, whereas older healthy cats require more protein to help keep their muscles in good shape as they age.

Due to its low protein and other nutrient deficiencies, dog food cannot sustain a cat in any of its life stages.

What food should cats eat?

Cats need to consume a high-quality diet to stay healthy. Commercial cat food comes in various forms: dry, canned, and raw.

These are very different from dry, canned, and natural dog food. You can feed your cat an all-wet diet to keep her hydrated and reduce carbohydrate intake.

Cat food is usually lower in carbohydrates than dog food. The reason is that cats do not require carbohydrates to thrive, and a high carb intake can lead to diabetes and obesity in cats.

Interestingly some cats prefer dry food to wet food. You would have to gradually transition to wet food if you want your cat to eat a healthy and complete diet.

Some feline lovers are turning to raw food to feed their cats. Those who advocate raw food for cats argue that the diet is similar to what cats eat in the wild.

Although many cats enjoy eating raw food, there are risks associated with feeding raw meat. Many cats can digest and tolerate food-borne pathogens in raw food.

However, humans in the home can get exposed to these pathogens due to cross-contamination.

What should you do if your cat eats dog food?

An occasional bite of dog food by your cat shouldn’t be a source of worry. However, you would have to observe your cat for problems such as weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, inappropriate defecation and urination, and other signs of illness.

If you notice your cat eating large amounts of dog food frequently, you should seek advice from your veterinarian. In addition, your cat may require an examination and lab test to assess her overall health.

Make it difficult for your cat to find dog food by keeping it out of their reach. Remove bowls of leftover food and avoid free-feeding your cats and dogs in the house.

Can cats eat dog food? Final Thoughts

The best way to meet your cat’s nutritional needs is to provide them with high-quality cat food.

While dog food is not harmful to cats, it lacks the dietary supplements to support healthy living in our feline friends.

Can Cats Eat Human Food? (Beware of 6 Toxic Foods)

Trevor Cat Food, Cat Health August 14, 2022August 14, 2022human food, toxic

The urge to toss a morsel of your favorite food to your cats can be overwhelming. Your cat’s affection could motivate you to share that sandwich with your feline friend. But can cats eat human food?

If you are pondering this, our guide will help you know what human food cats can eat and the foods you must avoid sharing with them.

Can Cats Eat Human Food? Is It Safe For Cats?

Human foods are not meant for cats. Although some human foods are harmless to cats, others pose a serious risk to your cat’s health.

A simple taste of some human food could be life-threatening for your cat. Generally, cats require complete and balanced cat food. Therefore, human food should serve as occasional cat treats and not form your cat’s main diet.

Human foods that are safe for cats

The following human foods are safe for cats:

1. Meats

Meats such as beef, chicken, liver, turkey, and lamb are safe for your cats. You must also ensure the meat is cooked as raw meat is known to carry parasites and bacteria that could affect your cat’s health.

2. Fish

Fish are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are suitable for your cat’s overall health. Cats are attracted to fish, so serving them as occasional treats is not harmful to their health.

However, ensure it is well cooked, and do not forget to remove bone particles from it before feeding your cat. Like meats, avoid feeding your cats fresh fish as they may carry harmful bacteria.

Note: Some cats do not do well to be fed too much fish. We have published an article that discusses fish allergies in cats.

3. Vegetables

Although cats are obligate carnivores, they can still benefit from plant-based food in their diet. Vegetables contain high amounts of vitamins, fiber, and water, so feeding them to cats is not bad.

You can give your cats some safe vegetables such as peas, carrots, asparagus, cucumber, and steamed broccoli.

4. Whole grains

Some cat owners consider grains as just fillers. However, grains are a rich source of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids.

Some grains also provide readily digestible protein. Although cats are natural carnivores, their digestive system can process carbohydrates from grains.

Whole grains, including corn, oat, and brown rice, contain a good amount of protein and are safe for cats to eat.

It is not a requirement that cats should eat grain for the added fiber. Cats get all the fiber they need from meat.

5. Eggs

Cats can enjoy a morsel of scrambled or boiled egg. Eggs are packed with amino acids and protein, making them a healthy treat for your cats. However, avoid feeding your cat raw eggs as they pose a risk of Salmonella infection.

6. Fruits

The chances that cats may enjoy a fruit meal varies. Cats have very limited sweet taste receptors, so not all cats may enjoy eating fruits.

However, if your cat is attracted to fruits, quite a few are helpful to them. They include bananas, blueberries, strawberries, apples, watermelons, and pumpkins.

Fruits are a rich source of vitamin A and C, potassium, and fiber. However, most fruits contain a high amount of sugar. Because of this, you should feed them to your cats in moderation. Permanently remove peels and seeds from the fruits before feeding them to your cats.

We have a full article devoted to this question: Can Cats Eat Fruit?

Fruitables sells a tasty, low calorie, crunchy cat treat with a recipe to include superfruits.

7. Cheese

Most cats are lactose intolerant, meaning they lack the enzyme that helps process lactose. Although cheese is a dairy product, you can use them as occasional treats for your cats.

Human foods to give with caution

· Potatoes

Some cat food manufacturers add potatoes to their products. This is because potatoes are a rich source of potassium, vitamin B, and C.

The drawback of potatoes is that it contains solanine which is toxic to cats. However, solanine fades away when cooking, so you can feed your cats moderate amounts of this veggie. Avoid constantly serving your cat fried potatoes because of their high-fat content.

· Avocadoes

Avocadoes harm some animals, including poultry, rabbit, and goats. Although no evidence suggests avocado is detrimental to your cats, you should feed them in only moderate amounts.

· Tomatoes

The skin and leaves of tomatoes contain solanine which is toxic to cats. If you must include tomatoes in your cat’s diet, ensure it is fully ripe.

· Peaches

You can give your cat a small portion of peach, as too much of it can cause stomach upset and diarrhea. Peaches contain high amounts of sugar and are pretty difficult to digest, so you must feed your cat cautiously.

· Bread

You can safely feed your cat’s small amount of bread. However, the raw uncooked dough is harmful to your cat, so you must avoid it.

· Peanut butter

Although peanut butter packs high amounts of protein, you should give it to your cat in small quantities. Peanut butter is high in fats which can contribute to diabetes and obesity in cats.

· Tuna Fish

Tuna fish serves as a great source of protein for cats. Tuna contains high amounts of unsaturated fat, so you must feed your cats in minimal amounts. So can cats eat canned tuna meant for humans? We have devoted a whole article to this question HERE.

Human foods you should avoid when feeding your cats

Some human food contains toxins that could be harmful to cats.

1. Grapes and raisins

Grapes are well known to cause gastrointestinal and kidney issues in dogs. Although no concrete evidence supports that these fruits have the same effect on cats, it is better to err on the side of caution.

2. Cherries

The parts of cherries, including pits, stems, and leaves, are poisonous to cats.

3. Oranges

Orange seeds, stems, and leaves are toxic to cats. Similarly, citrus fruits like grapefruits, lime, and lemons are acidic and can disturb your cat’s digestive system.

4. Onions

Onions are toxic to cats, so you should avoid them in your cat’s diet.

5. Milk

Most cats are lactose intolerant as they lack the enzymes in their digestive system to digest it. Some common symptoms of drinking milk in lactose-intolerant cats are vomiting, diarrhea, and liver problems. Learn more about ‘Can Cats Drink Cows Milk?’ HERE.

6. Chocolate

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which is harmful to your cats.

Unlike humans, cats are unable to easily metabolize (break down) theobromine, which leads to a build-up of the substance leading to fatal consequences. The darker the chocolate, the more it contains theobromine.

Learn more about why chocolate is bad for cats HERE.

7. Alcohol

Alcohol and cats do not mix. Therefore, ensure you keep all alcohol products far from the reach of cats.

Can Cats Eat Human Food? Final Thoughts

Can cats eat human food? The short answer is; yes in moderation, however, there some foods to avoid sharing with them.

Not all human food is harmful to cats. But others, such as chocolates and grapes, can be toxic to them.

Contact your veterinarian immediately if you discover your cat has eaten toxic human food. Do not forget that human food should be given as occasional treats to your cats and not as an essential part of their diet.

Can Cats Eat Raw Meat? (Read Before You Feed)

Trevor Cat Food, Cat Health, Cat Patties August 13, 2022August 30, 2023raw meat

Can cats eat raw meat? Absolutely. Cats are obligate carnivores. So it is understandable when feline lovers stick to a raw diet for their cats.

However, many experts believe that placing your cat on a raw diet causes a significant health risk for you and your pet.

In recent times, there has been a growing resentment toward commercial pet food by many feline lovers.

As a result, more cat owners are turning to homemade diets to feed their cats. If you decide to try raw feeding, it is best to discuss it with your veterinarian first.

Your vet would help ensure that the diet is complete and balanced and address the health and hygiene risks associated with a raw diet.

What is a raw food diet?

A raw food diet for cats entails feeding them uncooked animal products, meat, and sometimes raw offal and bones.

Raw food diets are usually homemade, as many cat owners prefer to know the ingredients that make up their cat’s food.

However, commercial forms are available in many pet stores. Commercial raw food diet typically comes in complete and complementary diets.

A complete diet will contain the proper balance of nutrients your cat requires to survive on this diet.

On the other hand, a complementary diet will be given to your cat in combination with another diet. Many animal nutritionists do not recommend a homemade raw diet for cats.

The reason is that homemade diets can be very inconsistent regarding whether they sufficiently meet your cat’s nutritional requirements.

As a result, a homemade diet should only be fed under expert guidance and might require additional supplementation to avoid deficiencies.

Can cats eat raw meat? What are the benefits for your cat?

Cats depend on animal food products to thrive. However, cats are mainly carnivores, unlike dogs, so they can only tolerate plant-based products in low quantities.

Cats require a diet that is high in animal protein and moisture. In addition, raw meat comprises of amino acids such as taurine, fatty acids, and other vital minerals and vitamins.

Advocates of raw food diets believe that cooking meat can change or reduce these critical substances cats need to function optimally.

The idea for many raw food adherents is to create a biologically appropriate diet similar to what a cat would eat in the wild.

These advocates have maintained that feeding cats raw meat has several benefits, such as shinier coats, healthier and cleaner teeth, prevention of obesity, and improved general health.

While these benefits are not disputed, there are genuine concerns about the safety of raw diets for cats.

Is raw meat safe for cats?

Before deciding on feeding your cats raw meat, you must look at the safety risks, which include:

1. Parasites and bacteria

Raw meat may contain parasites and bacteria that pose a severe health risk to your cat and yourself. Your cat can pass to you by shedding them all over the home.

While cats may not have a problem digesting raw meat, the presence of pathogens in them could cause life-threatening infections. Therefore, the essence of cooking food is to eliminate most of the pathogens in raw meat.

2. Bone pieces could be dangerous

A raw diet for cats may contain bone offal. The implication is that small bone fragments can get stuck in your cat’s digestive tract.

Bones can also cause teeth damage and airway obstructions in cats.

3. Raw meat diet may be nutritionally deficient

Although cats thrive on animal-based products, raw meat diet may not have the complete and balanced nutrients required by your cat.

An incomplete diet can cause a severe health risk for your cat in the long run. The biggest challenge in preparing a homemade raw diet is ensuring it has complete and balanced quantities of nutrients.

Inconsistency in the properties of nutrients in a homemade raw diet increases the risk of nutrient deficiency which may affect your cat’s health.

Wild cats will consume small animals in their entirety (bones, organs, skin, fur, feathers etc). By doing so they are are digesting a range of nutrients; nutrients that may not be available if only eating raw meat on its own.

How to prepare a raw meat diet for your cat

It would help if you found a professional to assist you in developing a complete and balanced diet that would be helpful for your cat.

Your veterinarian recommends special supplements to ensure your cat gets the nutrients needed to stay healthy.

The following ingredients can be used in a raw food diet;

Raw meat from muscles or organs (you should include meat from poultry, rabbit, and fish)
Raw bones
Eggs

Supplements

You would need equipment and supplies such as meat grinders, a cutting board, glass mixing bowls, disposable gloves, and a refrigerator or freezer for storage.

Raw Meat Patties

Introducing your feline to meat patties is another way to help them stabilize their innate composition as obligate carnivores. If formulated appropriately, they are a terrific high protein meat cat food that can be integrated with commercial wet and dry cat food, adding variety to a cat’s diet.

We have a whole article dedicated to cat patties HERE. It includes several excellent cat patty recipes that you can make at home, as well as reviews of commercially available patties for cats.

Safety tips for feeding your cat raw meat

The following guidelines are helpful to help you avoid the risk of getting an infection from your cat or the raw food:

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

Disinfect everything that comes in contact with raw cat meat, such as utensils, bowels, and surfaces.
Separate natural cat food in the freezer or refrigerator from other food.
Use different prep areas for cat food and human food.

Ensure to wash your hands thoroughly after you pet your cat.

Can cats eat raw bacon?

Although cats can consume raw bacon, it does not benefit their health.

Bacon is not toxic to cats but is high in salt and fat, so it is best to use it as a treat rather than a regular part of your cat’s diet. Make sure the bacon is fresh.

Can cats eat raw pork?

Cats can eat raw meat consisting of pork. However, be wary that consuming raw pork risks parasites. If your cat must be fed raw pork, ensure it is fresh and seasoning free.

Can cats eat raw beef?

Raw beef is not harmful to cats. So yes, cats can eat raw meat, but it must be in limited amounts.

You must know that raw beef can cause food poisoning. As a result, you must ensure that it is fresh and free of any seasoning that could harm your cat’s health.

Kangaroo meat

For our viewers who reside in Australia, kangaroo meat is a popular raw meat fed to cats and it is readily available in supermarkets across Australia. It is a quality lean meat product, high in protein and delicious to cats. Fed in combination with other cat foods is recommended. Ensure it is kept fresh in a sealed container in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Can cats eat raw meat? Certainly.

Cats require a high protein content to meet their nutrient requirements. So feeding them raw meat might seem to be a good idea. However, discussing this with your vet before placing your cat on a raw meat diet is best.

You may be interested in an our article ‘What Meats Can Cats Eat?‘.

What to Feed Cats (Cat Feeding Advice Guidance)

Trevor Cat Food, Uncategorized, What to look for in Cat Food Guide August 13, 2022September 2, 2023feeding advice, nutrition, what to feed cats

As any cat owner knows, cats can be picky eaters. Moreover, each cat has unique dietary needs based on age, health, and activity level. Therefore, knowing what to feed cats and having access to the best cat feeding advice can be challenging.

The food you give them, how much you feed them, and when you feed them can impact their health. That’s why it’s essential to have some basic knowledge about cat feeding.

By understanding the basics of cat nutrition, you can ensure that your cat gets the nutrients they need to stay healthy. This article will give you tips for caring for your feline friend. Keep reading for more information.

What to Feed Cats

Knowing what is healthy for cats is just as essential as being aware of ingredients that are harmful for cats.

Some cat food manufacturers compromise their pet products in order to keep costs down for the consumer. They may incorporate into their cat food formulas such things as inferior meats, artificial flavoring and grain fillers. All of these can be harmful to your cat’s health.

We strongly suggest that pet owner’s carefully read the cat food labelling of commercial cat foods to establish whether or not the food is right for your pet.

To help our viewers we have developed a simple to use Cat Food Appraisal Tool that presents a 16 point checklist. Use this tools when shopping for cat food. Our appraisal tool is available in PDF form HERE. To see a detailed breakdown of cat food ingredients view our article ‘What to Look for in Cat Food- the Good and The Bad’.

7 Cat Feeding Advice Tips

Assuming your cat is healthy and has no special dietary needs, here are some tips to help you choose the right food and feeding schedule.

1. Type of Food

You first need to consider what type of food to feed your cat. The two main options are dry food and wet food.

Dry food is typically cheaper and easier to store but has less moisture than wet food. If your cat doesn’t drink enough water, dry food can lead to dehydration.

On the other hand, wet food is more expensive but contains more moisture. It’s also generally closer to a cat’s natural diet.

The best option is to feed your cat a combination of both dry and wet food. This way, they can get the benefits of both types of food.

2. How Much to Feed Them

Most cats need around 20 calories per pound of body weight per day. So, if your cat weighs ten pounds, they need about 120-180 calories daily.

Of course, this number will vary based on age, activity level, and other factors. Talk to your veterinarian if you’re unsure how much to feed your cat. They can help you figure out the right amount based on your cat’s individual needs.

3. When to Feed Them

The best feeding schedule for cats is two or three small meals per day. If you only feed them once a day, they’re more likely to gorge themselves and then not eat again until the next meal.

However, some cats do better with one big meal per day. It depends on your cat’s individual preferences. Experiment to see what works best for them.

Generally, it’s best to feed them in the morning and at night. This way, they have food in their stomachs overnight.

If you work long hours and can’t be home to feed them twice a day, consider investing in an automatic feeder. This way, their meals will be dispensed on a schedule, even when you’re not home.

4. Water

In addition to food, cats need plenty of fresh water. So make sure they always have a clean bowl of water that’s easily accessible.

Some cats don’t like to drink from a bowl and prefer running water. In this case, you can need a cat water fountain, and Tomxcute Cat Water Fountain is one of the best for your cat. These fountains filter the water and keep it circulating, so it’s always fresh.

Cats typically need around five ounces of water per day. This number will increase if they eat primarily dry food or live in a hot climate.

5. Feed them a Balanced Diet

Cats are obligate carnivores, so they need to eat meat to survive. Meat contains an essential amino acid (Taurine), that cats require in their diet and are unable to synthesise themselves. Therefore, their diet should be high in meat protein and low in carbohydrates.

That said, not all cat foods are created equal. For example, some contain more fillers and by-products than others. So, it’s essential to read the labels carefully before buying anything. Refer to our Cat Food Appraisal Tool which provides a simple checklist on what to look for in a healthy cat food.

The best cat foods will list real meat as the first ingredient. Avoid anything that contains grains, corn, or soy. These are challenging for cats to digest. Here is a sample of grain free cat foods.

6. Treats

In addition to their regular food, you can also give your cats treats. However, treats should only make up around five percent of their diet. The rest should be high-quality cat food.

When choosing treats, look for something high in protein and low in carbohydrates. You can give them small pieces of cooked chicken or turkey as a healthy treat.

You can also find commercial cat treats specifically designed to be healthy and nutritious.

7. Keep Better Hygiene

It’s essential to keep your cat’s food area clean. Wash their bowl with soap and water every day.

Every week or so, you should disinfect their bowl with a mixture of one part vinegar and three parts water. This will help kill any bacteria that could make them sick.

After washing and disinfecting their bowl, rinse it well and dry it before adding fresh food.

Interesting Facts About The Cat

Cats are fascinating creatures that have been domesticated for thousands of years. They are known for their independent nature, as well as their Hunter’s instincts.

Despite this, cats are excellent companions and affectionate towards their owners. Here are some fun facts about our feline friends:

Cats have been domesticated for over 4,000 years. The first recorded instance of cat domestication comes from Ancient Egypt, where they were revered as gods and kept as pets.

There are over 500 million domestic cats in the world.
Cats sleep for around 12-16 hours a day.

While most cats are right-pawed, around 50% are left-pawed.
The average lifespan of a domestic cat is around 12-18 years, although some can live into their 20s.
Cats have excellent night vision and can see six times better than humans in low light conditions.

A cat’s hearing is much sharper than ours, and they can detect high-frequency sounds we cannot hear.
Cats have whiskers on their face which are extremely sensitive and help them judge distance and navigate in the dark.
Cats have a powerful sense of smell and can remember smells for long periods.

Common What to Feed Cats Questions

You may be interested in articles we have provided that answer the following what to feed cats questions:

Can cats eat chocolate?

Sharing a bar of chocolate with your pet cat is a bad idea as it is harmful to them. Chocolates present a severe health risk to cats and may be life-threatening if consumed excessively. Read on here…

Can cats eat dog food?

It is one of those reoccurring questions veterinarians hear from cat owners. Although the straightforward answer to this common question is yes, there is more cat owners need to know. Read on here…

Is human food OK for cats?

Your cat’s affection may motivate you to share that snack with your little friend. However, there is more to understand before submitting to the urge of feeding your cat human food. Read on here…

Can cats eat fruit?

Fruit form a healthy and needed part of the human diet, but is it the same for our feline friends? While you can include a little fruit in your cat’s diet, you must stick to safe fruits. Unfortunately, not all fruit is safe for cats. Read on here…

Is cows’ milk healthy for cats and kittens?

Images of cats lapping a bowl of milk have imprinted the impression that cow’s milk must be good for every cat. While most cats crave a little milk, the supposed love between cats and cow milk is exaggerated. Read on here…

Can cats eat canned tuna?

The short answer is Yes, canned tuna is considered safe to feed cats. Read on here…

What meat can cats eat?

By nature, cats are carnivorous meat-eaters with meat forming an essential part of their diet. However, it would help to consider what meat cats are best to eat before offering your pet that morsel of meat. Read on here…

Can cats eat raw meat?

Absolutely. Cats are obligate carnivores. So it is understandable when pet owners want to give a raw diet to their cats. However, some experts say that placing your cat on a diet of raw meat causes a significant health risk for you and your pet. Read on here…

Final thoughts on what to feed cats

Now that you know what to feed cats, it’s time to start. Choose the right food, create a feeding schedule, and clean their bowl. With this cat feeding advice your cat will be healthy and happy for years.

Go check our article on what we consider to be the worst cat food ingredients found in cat foods.

What Meat Can Cats Eat? (and meat bad for cats)

Trevor Cat Food, Uncategorized July 30, 2022August 13, 2022beef, chicken, fish, meat, pork

Most cat owners are often tempted to share what is on their plates with their cats. The problem with doing this is that not all foods are safe and healthy for your cats. So, what meat can cats eat?

By nature, cats are meat-eaters as meat forms an essential part of their diet. However, it would help to consider what meat cats can eat before offering your feline friend that morsel of meat.

What meat can I feed my cat?

Cats are carnivorous animals that thrive mainly on meats. The following meats are healthy and ideal for your cat.

1. Chicken

Chicken is one of the world’s most consumed meat. If you are wondering what meats can cat eat? Chickens are one of them.

Though cats can eat chicken, it still has to be well prepared. Cats require a high protein diet to maintain their metabolic function and sustain an active and healthy lifestyle.

Chicken is very rich in animal protein and natural minerals, and vitamins.

Benefits of chicken to cats

The protein in chicken will help your cat to:

Develop muscle mass
Maintain healthy fur and skin

High-quality chicken cuts and organs, especially chicken livers, contain natural minerals and vitamins, including:

Selenium: It helps to reduce shedding and hairballs in cats. It also helps to enhance their immune system.
Phosphorus: Helps to maintain bone development and heart and liver function.

Vitamin B6: Helps prevent feline diabetes by enabling glucose release and improves kidney function.

How to feed your cat chicken

Some of the most common parts of the chicken that is ideal for your cat are:

Main parts: These pats are tender and nutritious. They include the breasts, wings, and drumsticks. The best way to feed your cat chicken is to gently boil the meat cuts and remove all the skin containing unhealthy fat.

Giblets: The giblets include chicken liver rich in protein and vitamin A.

How much chicken should I give my cat?

As a rule of thumb, it is best to keep chicken to less than 10% of your cat’s total daily calorie intake.

Also, ensure that all the bones have been removed as they can cause severe internal damage to your cat’s stomach. Chicken should not be regularly used as a primary nutrition source for your cat.

2. Beef

Beef is a top contender for the most consumed meat worldwide.

If you are a pet owner and still thinking about what meat a cat can eat, consider adding beef to your cat’s diet. Cats can digest beef meat without any problem.

Beef is typically the flesh of cow, bull, or ox, consumed as food by man and animal. Beef meat can be cut into steaks, short ribs, or roasts.

Health benefits of beef for your cats

Beef contains minerals such as iron, manganese, zinc, and selenium, which help nourish and keep your cat healthy.\
Beef is also rich in Vitamin A, C, and B complex.
Cats require a lot of taurines, and beef is a decent taurine source.

How safe is beef for cats?

Beef is safe for cats, especially if it is cooked to at least 145 F. If you consider feeding your cats beef, look out for ground beef as it is less expensive and easy to prepare.

How much beef should I give my cat?

Beef is a healthy meat source for cats. However, it should not be included in your cat’s regular diet. This is because your cat may be unable to digest a high portion of beef, resulting in side effects and gastrointestinal issues.

You must note that some cats could be allergic or too sensitive to beef. Such cats may experience vomiting and diarrhea issues after consuming beef. You should avoid feeding your cat beef if you notice such problems.

3. Pork

Many cat owners wonder what meat cats can eat, with pork being a subject of debate. The truth is that cats can eat pork but only in moderation.

Health benefits of pork for your cat

Some of the benefits of feeding pork to your cat include:

Source of high-quality protein: Cats require a high protein intake and pork meat is rich in protein, a vital nutrient for cats.

Sources of vitamins and minerals: Pork contains essential vitamins, including B1, B2, B6, and B12. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) is vital to cats for the proper function of their nervous system, immune system, and digestive tract.
It also contains vital minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, niacin, selenium, and zinc.

Are there any dangers of pork for my cat?

Pork is high-fat and sodium-containing meat.

These nutrients can threaten your cat’s health when consumed in large quantities. Problems such as fats and weight gain, which may cause obesity and block arteries, may arise if consumed frequently.

Similarly, excess sodium can cause thirst and additional stress on your cat’s kidney, heart, and liver. Avoid ham and bacon as they have high sodium content, which can contain sulfites that are bad for cats.

How To Safely Feed Pork To Your Cat

Although pork is safe for your cats, you must take measures to feed pork to your cat safely. They include:

Remove all bones: Carefully separate bones from pork and cut them into small-sized pieces.
Cook adequately: Ensure you cook thoroughly to an internal temperature of 140 F. Thorough cooking helps prevent any live parasites from causing disease in the meat.
Feed your cats in moderate portions: Feed your cat not more than 10% of your cat’s daily calorie intake.

What other meat can cats eat?

If you are still speculating on what meat can cats eat, consider:

Lamb and veal
Turkey

Duck
Rabbit

5 Raw Meat Cat Food Options

Product	STAR Rating	Features
Instinct Raw Meals Cat Food- Cage Free Chicken	4.6 STARS	High protein Freeze-dried 100% balance meal Less processed Grain free Made in USA
Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Rabbit Meat Canned cat food	4.2 STARS	Grain Free Rabbit meat No fillers Balanced nutrition
Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Cat Food Rabbit	4.5 STARS	Grain free Rabbit meal Raw coated kibble
Stella and Chewy’s Freeze Dried Raw cat food chicken	4.3 STARS	Cage free chicken meat Made in USA High protein Minimally processed 100% complete meal Offer meat recipes offered
Meow Freeze-dried Wild Venison and lamb	4.3 STARS	New Zealand product Enzymes & nutrients High protein Cage free duck meat Complete meal Grain free

What about fish meat?

Despite popular belief, fish is not an acceptable food for feeding daily to cats. It is common for some cats to develop allergies when fed fish.

There are many cat foods that include fish in their menus, and we do review many fish products on our website. Fish is tasty and this entices cat owners to offer it as food. But fish can create health problems in cats.

Oily fish such as tuna contain high levels of fatty acids. This can lead to a vitamin E deficiency in cats, resulting in painful conditions.

Heavy metals have been known to accumulate in larger pelagic fish. Cat food products labelled with having ‘ocean whitefish’ can be high in PCBs and mercury.

Although not common, heavy metal toxicity in cats can lead to the development of neurological problems and kidney damage.

If feeding cat food containing fish, read the label to see if the company tests for heavy metals in their products, and if evident, that it guarantees these levels to be safe for cats.

Some cats may also have allergen reaction to the protein in fish.

We recommend that fish is fed in moderation. Always read the product information to see where the fish is sourced. Be vigilant with your cat and take note of any changes or reactions when fish is fed.

We have discussed whether cats can eat canned tuna in this article, and have expanded our discussion on fish allergies in cats in this article.

Can cats eat raw meat?

Generally, it is best to conduct extensive research and consult your veterinarian before your cat is fed raw meat.

Some risks of feeding your cat raw meat include parasitic infestation, nutritional deficiency, and the dangers of bone materials in raw meat.

To learn more, read our article answering ‘Can Cats Eat Raw Meat’ question in depth.

A tip when selecting a cat food.

We recommend reading the ingredients list on any commercial cat food. ‘Real Meat’ should always be the first ingredient listed. Cheaper pet foods will list meat as ‘meat by-product’ or ‘meat-meal’. Although, meat-meal can be eaten by cats, it is a rendered ingredient and doesn’t depict the ‘meat’ the company may be claiming to have in the recipe. Pet food manufacturers are not required to report exactly what is in their ‘meat’ meal.

Meat by-product can be anything from fat, bones, floor waste and offal. It is heated to a very high temperature destroying enzymes and nutrition, and dried into a powder to be added to pet foods.

It is used because it is cheap and because it preserves better than real meat, requiring no refrigeration.

What meat can cats eat? Final Thoughts

What meat can cats eat can be a worrying thought for many feline lovers. However, this article has given you an insight into selecting healthy and nutritious meats for your cat.

5 Best Purina Urinary Tract Cat Foods (Reviewed)

Trevor Best Dry Cat Food, Best Wet Cat Foods, Cat Food, Cat Food for UTI Health, Cat Health, Uncategorized July 23, 2022August 28, 2022purina, urinary

Purina One Urinary Tract Health Wet Cat food

Nestle Purina Pet care is a world-renowned pet food company that produces some of the best foods for cats with urinary tract issues. This article independently reviews the best Purina urinary tract cat foods.

With over 18,000 employees and 500 scientists, including nutritionists. The company has been in business for over 80 years and has a long history of producing high-quality products trusted by pet owners and veterinarians.

The company wrote this on their website “We shape the future of Health and Well-being for pets & people through three simple pursuits. Pets Are Our Passion, Safety is our Promise, Innovation is our Pledge”.

Those drives led to their success in providing the best care for pets.

Purina Urinary Tract Cat Foods are specifically designed to meet the needs of cats with urinary tract issues and help prevent or reduce urinary tract infections.

The foods contain high-quality ingredients and no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. In addition, the food is highly digestible and has a high level of natural proteins, making them an excellent choice for cats with urinary tract issues.

This article will briefly review four of the best Purina Urinary Tract Cat Foods, along with a top pick urinary tract cat food from Iams (for a comparison).

5 Best Purina Urinary Tract Cat Foods

Product	Features	Rating
Purina ONE High Protein Dry Cat Food Urinary Tract Health Formula	Dry food Chicken All breeds sizes High protein Antioxidant Veterinarian recommended	4.6
Purina Pro Plan Urinary Tract Wet Cat Food - Chicken	Wet food Real chicken meat All breeds sizes Low dietary magnesium	4.6
Purina Pro Plan Focus Classic Urinary Tract Health Formula Adult Wet Cat Food	Wet food Ocean Whitefish Low dietary magnesium	4.5
IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Adult Urinary Tract Health Dry Cat Food with Chicken Cat Kibble	Chicken Dry kibble Omega 6 & 3 fatty acids All cat breeds Calcium & potassium	4.8
Purina One Urinary Tract Health Beef & Liver Pate Wet Cat Food	Adult Wet food 2.25 pounds Urinary tract health Beef & Liver	4.3

Review of Our Top Picks

Here is the break down of our top picks

1. Purina ONE High Protein Dry Cat Food, +Plus Urinary Tract Health Formula

Purina ONE High Protein Dry Cat Food, +Plus Urinary Tract Health Formula is a unique blend of nutrients that help support your cat’s urinary tract health while providing high-quality protein to help maintain lean muscles.

The formula contains targeted magnesium levels to help reduce the risk of struvite crystal formation and promote a healthy urinary pH. It also has added vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants, to support a healthy immune system.

DHA, an omega-6 fatty acid, helps support cognitive development and vision. This high-protein kibble is made with real meat and no poultry by-product meal for a taste cats love.

Feed your cat Purina ONE High Protein Dry Cat Food, +Plus Urinary Tract Health Formula as part of a complete and balanced diet to help keep her looking and feeling her best every day.

Pros

High-quality protein
Reduces risk of struvite crystal formation
Supports a healthy urinary pH

Helps to maintain urinary tract health
Supports the immune system
Helps build strong muscles and a healthy heart

Cons

Causes excess gas in some cats

Buy on Amazon Buy on Chewy

2. Purina Pro Plan Urinary Tract Cat Food, Wet Cat Food Gravy, Urinary Tract Health- Chicken

Purina Pro Plan UR urinary tract cat food wet is specially formulated to help reduce the risk of crystal formation in the bladder, leading to feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD).

It contains high levels of magnesium to help maintain proper pH balance in the urine, and chicken is the primary source of protein to reduce potential struvite crystal formation.

Additionally, this urinary tract health cat food wet provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult cats and has a delicious gravy recipe your cat will love.

Pros

It is specially formulated to reduce the risk of FLUTD.
High levels of magnesium help maintain proper pH balance in the urine
Chicken is the primary source of protein

Complete and balanced nutrition for adult cats
It helps build the immune system

Cons

Some cats don’t like the taste or texture of this food

Buy on Amazon Buy on Chewy

3. Purina Pro Plan Focus Classic Urinary Tract Health Formula Adult Wet Cat Food

Purina Pro Plan Focus Classic Urinary Tract Health Formula Adult Wet Cat Food is a great option for cats needing extra urinary health support.

This formula contains high levels of protein and low magnesium levels to help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections. In addition, the food is enriched with vitamins and minerals to support overall health.

The delicious ocean whitefish flavor will have your cat returning for more. So if you’re looking for wet food that will support your cat’s urinary health, Purina Pro Plan Focus Classic Urinary Tract Health Formula Adult Wet Cat Food is a great option.

Pros

High levels of protein

Low levels of magnesium
Enriched with vitamins and minerals
Delicious fish flavor

100% balance diet
It promotes an ideal body condition

Cons

Some cats don’t like the smell

Buy on Amazon Buy on Chewy

4. IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Adult Urinary Tract Health Dry Cat Food with Chicken Cat Kibble

IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Adult Urinary Tract Health Dry Cat Food with Chicken Cat Kibble is a nutritious, balanced meal that helps support your cat’s urinary tract health.

The chicken kibble is enriched with taurine and prebiotics for overall health and vitality. With its high-quality ingredients, this food provides your cat with the nutrients they need to stay healthy and active.

IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Adult Urinary Tract Health Dry Cat Food with Chicken Cat Kibble is also a veterinarian recommended for cats over the age of one.

So if you’re looking for nutritious and delicious food that will help support your cat’s urinary tract health, look no further than IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Adult Urinary Tract Health Dry Cat Food with Chicken Cat Kibble.

Pros

Enriched with taurine and prebiotics
High-quality ingredients
Veterinarian recommended

Complete and balanced nutrition
Supports health
It helps reduce the risk of struvite crystals formation

Well priced

Cons

Can cause stinky gas in cats

Buy on Amazon Buy on Chewy

5. Purina One Urinary Tract Health Beef & Liver Pate Cat Food

Purina ONE Urinary Tract Health Beef & Liver Pate Cat Food is formulated to help reduce the risk of UTIs and keep your cat’s urinary tract healthy.

This delicious pate is made with natural beef and liver and contains essential nutrients like vitamins A and E. Plus, magnesium is low to help maintain a healthy urinary pH balance.

So if you’re looking for a nutritious option to help support your cat’s urinary health, consider Purina ONE Urinary Tract Health Beef & Liver Pate Cat Food.

Pros

Formulated to help reduce the risk of UTIs
Made with natural beef and liver

Packed with essential nutrients
Low in magnesium

Cons

Pricier

Buy on Amazon Buy on Chewy

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for cat food to support your cat’s urinary health, any options on this list would be a great choice. There are plenty of nutritious and delicious options, from wet to dry food.

So find the perfect fit for your feline friend and help keep their urinary tract health with one of these marvelous foods.

What Causes Hairballs In Cats? (Food Suggestions)

Trevor Cat Health, Illnesses, Uncategorized July 22, 2022August 28, 2022blockage, hairballs

Maine Coon Cat can sometimes have hairball blockages

Cats are remarkably skilled at keeping themselves clean and barely require bathing. While this innate behavior in cats helps their overall hygiene, it may pose a health problem for our feline friends. This leads to the what causes hairballs in cats?

Cats love self-grooming from time to time. However, when grooming, they can swallow loose hair resulting in a cat hairball. Hairballs are usually harmless to cats.

But if you are wondering what causes hairballs in cats, the symptoms, and how to help cats with hairballs, you would find this piece pretty enlightening.

What exactly is a cat hairball?

A cat’s hairball is a build-up of dead hair and digestive juices in the cat’s stomach. It is pretty standard for cats to swallow hair during grooming.

Every cat grooms itself by licking its fur. Their tongues contain tiny barbs that snag the strands as they shred. Due to the design of their barbs on the tongue that faces backward, cats have little choice but to swallow the hair they groom.

Typically, the hair swallowed usually passes through their body and gets eliminated. However, there are times when the hair is unable to make it past the intestinal tract.

Hairballs are pretty harmless but could become fatal if the hair becomes hardened and cause a blockage in their intestinal tract.

Hairball Control Recommended Cat Food Quick Review

Product	Features	Cons
Hill’s Science Diet Hairball Control Dry Cat Food	4.5 STARS Vet recommended Clinically proven 1st Ingredient chicken meat No by-product meal Vitamins Omega 3 & 6	Contains grains Kibble size large Picky eaters may not like
Hill’s Science Diet Hairball Control Wet Cat Food	4.3 STARS Premium food Vet recommended 1st Ingredients real chicken & turkey Omega 3 & 6 Vitamins High fiber	Picky eaters may not like Unusual texture Pricier
Iams ProActive Health Adult Hairball Care Dry Cat Food	4.6 STARS Complete & balanced nutrition Vet recommended No fillers First Ingredient chicken meat	Picky eaters may not like it
Merrick Purrfect Bistro Grain Free Hairball Control Dry Cat Food	3.7 STARS Omega 3 & 6 Complete Diet Antioxidants Probiotics Natural fiber No artificials 1st Ingredient real chicken meat	Picky eaters may not like Small kibble
Nulo Hairball Management Turkey & Cod Recipe Dry Cat Food	3.5 STARS Grain free Omega 3 & 6 Probiotics Antioxidants First ingredient turkey meat Fiber- natural miscanthus grass.	Kibble very small Picky eaters may not like

Symptoms of hairballs in cats

You may notice the following symptoms when your cat is trying to bring up a hairball;

Retching
Gagging

Vomiting with food or fluid
Dry cough
Loss of appetite

Swollen abdomen
Diarrhea and constipation
Weakness or lethargy

What Causes Hairballs In Cats?

A hairball is caused by loose hair that has been ingested but not passed through the intestinal tract.

Cats spend a lot of time licking and grooming their fur. The loose or dead fur that sticks to your cat’s tongue is swallowed, and the hair is digested and eliminated through the feces.

However, hair can build up in the stomach, forming hairballs. Your cat may vomit its hairballs with food or fluid.

Several factors such as extreme grooming, long coats, and shedding contribute to cats swallowing loose fur. The loose fur then turns into a hairball which may cause intestinal blockage in cats.

Excessive grooming and anxiety or allergens in cats

Cats develop hairballs when they groom. However, excessive grooming can signify anxiety in response to a sudden change in the cat’s environment.

Similarly, excessive grooming can also be a result of allergens or food sensitivities. So, if your cat is grooming too much, take your cat to a vet for a complete examination.

Hairball diagnosis in cats

You can detect if your cat has hairballs if you find vomit with hair, food, and fluid in it.

Similarly, loss of appetite, and lethargy associated with frequent vomiting with hair loss, could be an indication of intestinal blockage. To rule out any other condition, your veterinarian would conduct a physical exam to confirm the hairball.

Your vet would likely ask about your cat’s medical history and how frequently they cough up blood.

Several other blood tests and radiographs also are ordered by your veterinarian to check for an intestinal blockage in your cat. Although hairballs in cats are pretty harmless, an intestinal blockage could be fatal if left untreated.

Hairball treatment for cats

There are several available hairballs in cats. However, your veterinarian would recommend a treatment plan according to the severity of the condition.

Hairball preventative measures

laxatone hairball remedy for cats — **Laxatone Hairball Remedy available on AMAZON.**

To keep hairballs at bay, your veterinarian may use a hairball preventative that serves as a lubricant. The product is designed to help your cat pass the hairball through the intestinal tract. An example of a hairball preventative is Laxotone.

· Brush your cat’s fur frequently

Because of the excessive grooming, your cat licks and swallows the loose hair. Therefore, brushing your cat’s hair several times per week will reduce the amount of hair she consumes. In addition, brushing the fur removes loose or dead hair before your cat can swallow it.

· Dietary Alteration

Changing your cat’s diet may help in passing and eliminating swallowed hair. Your veterinarian may recommend a fiber-rich diet. Fiber helps keep the digestive tract functioning, which felines need to pass swallowed hair through their body effectively.

· Surgical Extraction

**Hairball Soft Chews Treats for Cats available on CHEWY**

Based on the severity of the hairball, your vet may recommend surgery to remove the hairball from the intestinal tract. Surgery is only considered if the situation is complex and life-threatening.

· Discourage over grooming

Excessive grooming causes cats to swallow more hair, leading to more hairballs. If your cat spends too much grooming, try to break it up with a game or a cuddle. You may also want to give your cat a new toy to engage her in other grooming.

At what point do cat hairballs become dangerous?

Hairballs are generally harmless in cats. However, you should take your cat to the vet immediately if she displays the following signs;

Extended gagging, retching without producing a hairball.
Loss of appetite
Lethargy

Excessive nibbling on grass
Lethargy
Constipation and diarrhea

Swollen or sensitive stomach

Ensure you provide urgent medical attention to your cat once you notice any of these disturbing signs.

Do some cats produce more hairballs than others?

Cat hairballs are a natural part of their grooming routine and are usually not a cause for concern. Younger cats and kittens have fewer hairballs because they are less picky about grooming.

On the other hand, older cats may have become more selective and produce more hairballs. Although fluffy cats are excellent companions, they are more prone to frequent hairballs.

Some cat breeds, such as Persians and Maine coons, naturally produce more hairballs. The reason is that their hair accumulates into clumps rapidly.

How frequently do cats get Hairballs?

Hairballs should occur in cats occasionally, usually less than once a month. Most swallowed hair usually passes through the digestive system and comes with feces.

What Causes Hairballs In Cats? Final Thoughts

Cats love to stay clean by grooming. However, while grooming, they swallow loose hair, which becomes hairballs. While hairballs are harmless, they may pose a danger for your cat if it causes intestinal blockage.

Regular vet visits and constant brushing of your cat’s fur would help prevent any fatal consequences of grooming.

← Previous