CAT
NUTRITION
At Vet At Your Door, we're dedicated to ensuring your cat's health through proper nutrition, and as Fear Free Certified professionals, we aim to provide this care in the comfort of your home. Here are some common questions we get about cat nutrition:
How do I change my pet's diet?
Switching a cat's diet should be a gradual process over several days to prevent digestive upset. Initially, mix a quarter of the new food with the old, then slowly increase the proportion. Our team can offer a tailored plan to transition your cat's diet, ensuring it's a comfortable experience at home.
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Can my cat be a vegetarian?
No. Cats are obligate carnivores and need a diet rich in animal proteins. A vegetarian diet doesn't meet their essential nutrient requirements, such as taurine, which is crucial for heart health and vision. We can help you select a meat-based diet that's nutritionally complete for your cat's specific needs.
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Why is my cat a finicky eater?
Cats can be picky for various reasons like dish size, location, household dynamics, or underlying health issues. We can assess your cat's environment and health to determine the cause and provide strategies that cater to their preferences, ensuring they receive the necessary nutrition.
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Can my cat eat dog food?
Cats cannot thrive on dog food as it lacks essential nutrients like taurine, vital for cat health. Feeding dog food can lead to serious health issues in cats. We can guide you in choosing cat-specific diets that fulfill your cat's unique dietary requirements.
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What is in cat food?
Cat food typically includes meat, poultry, seafood, grains, vitamins, and minerals. The ingredients and their proportions are important for balancing your cat's diet. We can assist in interpreting food labels and choosing a diet that meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards for nutritional adequacy.
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Why can't I feed my cat table scraps?
Table scraps aren't suitable for cats as they can cause digestive problems and nutritional imbalances. Regular feeding of table scraps can lead to obesity and other health issues. We provide advice on appropriate treats and feeding practices to maintain your cat's health and wellbeing.
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Isn't my pet bored eating the same food?
Cats typically don't require dietary variety like humans. However, introducing high-quality canned food occasionally can add some variety. We can advise on how to enrich your cat’s diet without causing stress or nutritional imbalance.
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What tests ensure pet food safety?
Pet food safety is verified through AAFCO feeding trials, ensuring the food provides complete and balanced nutrition. We can help you select foods that meet these rigorous testing standards, ensuring your cat's diet is safe and nutritionally sound.
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Which pet food company or brand is the best?
The ideal cat food brand varies based on your cat's age, health condition, and nutritional needs. We collaborate with you to identify a brand that offers the right balance of nutrients, adhering to AAFCO guidelines for your cat’s specific life stage.
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Canned or dry, does it matter?
The choice between dry and canned cat food depends on various factors like your cat's health, hydration needs, and preference. Dry food is convenient but lower in moisture, while canned food provides more water content. We can guide you in choosing the type that best suits your cat's needs, considering their overall health and lifestyle.
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We at Vet At Your Door are here to offer tailored, compassionate advice on all aspects of cat nutrition. Feel free to contact us at (207) 536-8387, email us at info@vetatyourdoor.com, or fill out our online form to request an appointment. We're here to ensure your cat's nutritional needs are met in the most stress-free way possible.