Hydration and nutrition are essential to a cat’s health and well-being. Proper management of these two aspects can prevent many long-term health problems. If you’d like to know how to provide your cat with a balanced diet and optimal hydration, read on.
Using a cat water fountain
Most cats prefer moving water, a characteristic inherited from their wild ancestors who associated it with a cleaner, fresher source. To encourage your cat to drink more, using a water fountain can be an excellent solution. These fountains keep the water in constant motion, attracting feline attention and encouraging them to drink more regularly. Many models feature a filtration system that purifies the water. This eliminates impurities and unpleasant odours, further encouraging your cat to stay hydrated. A wide range of water fountains for cats can be found on this site.
Understanding cats’ water needs
Unlike dogs, cats don ‘t naturally have the urge to drink frequently. This can lead to insidious dehydration if their fluid needs are not properly met. A cat that doesn’t drink enough water risks suffering from various urinary and kidney disorders. The amount of water required depends on each feline’s diet and lifestyle. On average, an adult cat needs to drink around 60 to 70 ml of water per kilogram of body weight every day.
Balancing dry and wet food
Dry kibbles have the advantage of being convenient and can be left out so that the cat can eat at its own pace. However, these foods generally contain little water, which can encourage him to drink more to compensate for this lack of hydration. On the other hand, wet food, such as pâté or jelly sachets, contains large quantities of water. By contributing naturally to the cat’s hydration, this type of food is particularly recommended for cats with kidney or urinary problems.
Choosing the right food
Unlike dogs, cats are strict carnivores, which means their diet must consist mainly of high-quality animal proteins. The addition of essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, is also beneficial for the health of the cat’s skin and coat. It’s also important to provide a diet suited to your cat’s age and state of health. Foods specially formulated for each stage of his life ensure that he receives all the nutrients he needs to develop and maintain good health.
Be aware of the dangers of being overweight
Obesity is an increasingly common problem in domestic cats. It is mainly caused by an excessively rich diet or insufficient physical activity. Excess weight can lead to heart disease, diabetes and joint problems. It is therefore essential to control food portions, especially treats, and to ensure that your cat maintains a healthy weight. Cats who don’t eat enough quality food or who aren’t sufficiently stimulated can also become sedentary and put on weight.
Complementing your cat’s diet with food supplements
Dietary supplements help maintain your cat’s health, especially as it ages or has specific nutritional needs. For example, taurine, an essential amino acid for cats, or fatty acids can be added to your cat’s diet to support heart and kidney health. What’s more, some formulas are specially designed to support joint function, particularly for older cats or those suffering from a specific disease such as osteoarthritis. These supplements improve your cat’s mobility and relieve joint pain.
Adopt good eating habits
Adopting a good dietary routine is just as important as choosing the right food. Most cats like a certain predictability in their meals. This means it’s best to feed them at fixed times, and not to alter their feeding schedule too much. This helps regulate their metabolism and limit the risk of digestive disorders. It is advisable to divide the daily ration into several small meals to avoid gastric overload. You can also choose kibbles that encourage chewing and limit the risk of dental tartar.
