Cats are Carnivores

 

Your kitten has the highly specialised digestive system of a true carnivore. Her tongue and teeth are designed specifically for eating meat, so it is really important to provide the correct diet to suit her growing needs. It is also important to remember that, as a kitten she needs more calcium and phosphorus than an adult cat in order to supply her growing needs; plus high levels of protein to suit her carnivore status.

Protein Requirements.

This essential component of her diet helps to maintain healthy growth, toned muscles and strong claws, hair and skin. In the wild, her ‘kill’ would provide all the protein needed.

Proteins is made up of amino acids and these come in two types -

·         Non-essential amino acids which can be manufactured by the body and

·         Essential amino acids like arginine and taurine which must be provided through her diet.

Essential Fatty Acids

These dietary components are important in keeping her coat, skin metabolism and reproductive system in good working order. We know how important her coat and skin are to her so we need to make sure that these important elements are part of her diet. Essential fatty acids and fats are a huge source of energy, plus they add a great variety of taste to a meal. Growing kittens use up huge amounts of energy in their play, so providing her with essential fatty acids will help her to stay lively, alert and playful

Vitamins

These are important for kitty as they help to maintain her vision, the strong growth of her bones and keep her metabolism functioning correctly. If kitty injures herself, vitamins will be there to help; one to stop the bleeding and another to repair the skin.

Minerals.

Just like humans, kitty needs minerals to ensure strong bones and teeth. The most important ones are calcium, sodium chloride, magnesium. Potassium and phosphorus. These can be found in exactly the right quantities in most major brands of kitten good.

Carbohydrates and Fibre

Carbohydrates are an important energy source and fibre as we all know is of benefit to the digestive system.

As you see, kitty has a complex balance of dietary needs. A good kitten food will provide a balanced diet to suit the needs of a hungry, growing carnivore. Talk to your vet and he will recommend a good brand of food for your kitten or growing cat.