The Healthiest Things to Feed Your Cat
Cats are beloved companions, and ensuring their nutrition is key to a long and healthy life. As
obligate carnivores, cats have specific dietary needs that must be met to maintain optimal health. This article explores the healthiest foods to feed your cat, highlighting safe practices and pointing out what to avoid.
Why Cats Are Obligate Carnivores
Cats require animal-based protein to thrive. Their bodies are not equipped to efficiently process plant-based proteins, making meat an essential component of their meals.
Essential nutrients for cats include:
- Taurine – critical for heart, vision, and reproductive health
- Arachidonic acid – an essential fatty acid only found in animal fat
- Vitamin A – needs to be consumed in its active form (retinol), found in animal liver
Main Source of Nutrition
Commercially prepared cat food—both dry (kibble) and wet (canned)—is the most reliable way to ensure cats receive complete and balanced nutrition. Vet-approved brands meet the standards set by organizations like AAFCO and provide necessary nutrients in proper proportions.
Healthy Supplemental Foods
While a balanced cat food should be the dietary foundation, certain human foods can be added as
occasional treats:
1. Cooked Chicken
- Best served plain, unseasoned, and thoroughly cooked
- Remove all skin and bones before feeding
- Keep portions small – no more than 10% of daily caloric intake
2. Other Animal Proteins
- Cooked turkey, beef, and select fish like salmon are safe in moderation
- Cooked eggs provide an additional protein source
Broths and Hydration Aids
Plain chicken broth made without added salt, onion, or garlic can be a good way to add flavor and encourage hydration. Homemade broths are recommended over commercial ones due to fewer additives.
Vegetables & Dairy (Occasionally)
Some cats tolerate these in tiny amounts:
- Steamed green beans, broccoli, or cucumber
- Plain yogurt or cottage cheese, if your cat is not lactose-intolerant
These should never replace primary protein sources and are not necessary for a cat’s diet.
What to Avoid
Many common foods are
toxic or harmful to cats:
- Garlic, onions, chives
- Chocolate, grapes, raisins
- Macadamia nuts, alcohol, raw dough
- Foods containing xylitol (sugar substitute)
Avoid raw or undercooked meat, processed meats like deli cuts or sausage, which can contain excessive salt and preservatives. Chicken nuggets or fried chicken contain unhealthy fats and spices unsuitable for cats.
Risks of Raw Chicken
Although some owners favor
raw feeding, raw chicken carries significant risks like Salmonella and E. coli. If you plan to feed raw food, use human-grade meat, follow strict food hygiene, and consult a veterinarian. Commercial raw diets that are balanced and tested may be safer than preparing raw meals at home.
The Danger of Bones
Never feed your cat cooked or raw chicken bones. They can splinter, causing choking, internal injuries, or fatal blockages.
Portion Control
Cats need specific portion sizes to stay healthy:
- Adult cats: up to 2 tablespoons of cooked chicken per day
- Kittens under 6 months: 1–2 teaspoons of cooked chicken daily
Chicken should only supplement, not replace, a nutritionally complete diet.
Signs to Watch For
When introducing new foods, observe your cat for any adverse reactions:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Lethargy or loss of appetite
- Allergic reactions like itching or swelling
Always introduce new foods gradually and under supervision.
Conclusion
The healthiest thing to feed your cat is a
veterinarian-approved, balanced commercial cat food that meets all their nutritional needs. Occasional treats like small portions of plain, cooked chicken can add variety, but should not dominate the diet. Avoid raw meat, bones, and toxic ingredients. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian to tailor a feeding plan suited to your cat’s age, health, and lifestyle.
