The Healthiest Things to Feed Your Cat: A Complete Guide
When it comes to caring for your feline friend, nutrition is one of the most critical aspects of their health and longevity. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they require nutrients found only in animal products. This makes choosing the right foods essential. While cats may enjoy various treats, their daily diet should meet all of their nutritional needs to avoid illness and deficiency.
1. Foundation of a Healthy Feline Diet: Complete and Balanced Cat Food
The cornerstone of a healthy diet for cats is commercial cat food that is labeled ‘complete and balanced.’ These formulations are specifically designed to meet the complex nutritional needs of cats, including adequate levels of taurine, protein, fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals.
- Dry (kibble) and Wet (canned) Cat Foods: Both options can be healthy when complete and balanced. Wet food offers the added benefit of extra hydration.
- Life Stage Appropriate: Choose food tailored for your cat’s specific life stage—kitten, adult, or senior.
- Veterinary-Approved Brands: Opt for trusted, science-based brands recommended by veterinarians.
2. Healthy Protein Supplements: Cooked Animal Proteins
Occasionally incorporating human-grade, cooked proteins can be a good supplement to your cat’s commercial diet. Plain cooked chicken is an excellent choice when prepared properly.
- Chicken: Must be thoroughly cooked, unseasoned, skinless, and boneless. Never feed fried chicken or chicken nuggets.
- Portion Control: Limit to small amounts—up to two tablespoons per day for adult cats, one to two teaspoons for kittens under six months.
- Turkey and Beef: Also acceptable if cooked plainly without seasoning.
- Fish: Safe in small amounts, but due to mercury risks and possible imbalances, only feed occasionally.
3. Cat-Safe Additions in Small Quantities
While cats do not need vegetables or dairy, some may enjoy small amounts of the following:
- Cooked Eggs: Provide high-quality protein.
- Plain Yogurt or Cottage Cheese: Only in small quantities, provided your cat tolerates lactose.
- Vegetables: Cucumber slices, steamed green beans, or broccoli offer extra fiber and hydration.
4. Chicken Broth: A Hydration-Boosting Treat
Homemade chicken broth, made without salt, onions, garlic, or other seasonings, can be added in small quantities to encourage hydration and appetite. Avoid store-bought broths high in sodium.
5. Raw Chicken: Caution and Controversy
While wild cats consume raw meat, feeding raw chicken to domestic cats can be risky:
- Pathogens: Risks include Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, and Toxoplasma.
- Precautions: Use only high-quality, human-grade meat and follow strict hygiene protocols.
- Veterinary Consultation: Always discuss raw diets with a vet to weigh risks and safety.
- Commercial Raw Diets: These may be safer than homemade raw meals if tested for pathogens and nutritionally balanced.
6. Dangers: What Not to Feed Your Cat
- Chicken Bones: Both cooked and raw bones pose serious risks—splintering can cause choking or internal injury.
- Spices and Additives: Avoid all seasoning including garlic and onion, which are toxic to cats.
- Processed Meats: Ham, sausage, and deli meats are high in sodium and unsafe.
- Toxic Foods: Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, chives, alcohol, raw dough, macadamia nuts, and xylitol are all toxic to cats.
7. Feeding Tips and Best Practices
- Introduce New Foods Gradually: Observe for allergies or digestive upset.
- Stick to Proportions: Treats should never exceed 10% of daily caloric intake.
- Hydration: Encourage water intake with wet food or broths.
- Consult a Veterinarian: Especially for dietary changes or raw feeding decisions.
- Feed Age-Appropriate Portions: Younger and older cats have different dietary needs and portion sizes.
Conclusion: Balanced Cat Food Comes First
Ultimately, the healthiest thing you can feed your cat is a high-quality, complete and balanced commercial cat food. Occasional treats, such as plain cooked chicken or small vegetables, may be offered to provide variety, but they must be prepared carefully. Avoid harmful foods and always keep portion sizes modest. When in doubt, talk to your vet to ensure your cat’s diet supports a long, healthy life.
