Natural Cat Health
Taking care of your cat's health naturally can be simple - if we go back to basics! Here at Pets Natural Health Store, we encourage cat owners to start by thinking about what nature would provide for them, and take it from there!
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Foundations for good health, whether we're talking about humans or animals, include quality nutrition, exercise, quality sleep and minimising toxins in the body.
Why a raw diet is best
Natural and organic foods are best for our beautiful cats' health. Unless the food is raw, there is little or no nourishment present in it. Raw food contains the essential enzymes, amino acids and nutrients that cats need to stay healthy.
Canned meat and processed foods can cause your cat to over eat and bloat, leaving them hungry and uncomfortable. With all the goodness gone plus the added chemical preservatives, sugar and salt added, the food is “dead” matter. Over time, lack of quality nourishment can lead to health issues.
How cats process food
Cats are part of the “carnivora” order, which means they are meat eaters. They have a unique digestive system finely tuned for processing animal-based foods. Cats require specific nutrients like taurine, arachidonic acid, and vitamin A, primarily found in animal tissues to maintain their health. They have short digestive tracts, meaning that extracting essential nutrients from meat is quick and easy for their bodies. Their kidneys are adapted to concentrate urine, which helps them hold on to water — a trait derived from their desert-dwelling ancestors. This specialised digestive physiology reflects the evolutionary adaptation of cats to thrive on a diet primarily composed of meat. That means most of your cat's water intake is supposed to come from its food source.
Cats lack certain enzymes necessary for the efficient breakdown of plant matter so it's ideal to feed cats meals made up of roughly 90% raw meats.
Cooking meat kills the goodness
Cooking meat destroys the vital life force that is present in organic substances. Think of cooked meat as being already partially digested. It artificially and unnaturally breaks down the meat tissues - a task that your cat’s stomach, intestines, and digestive juices are meant to do. So when a cat eats cooked meat, it fails to engage these organs properly. Over time, these essential organs weaken and lose their natural functionality. Your cat’s taste receptors may also become desensitised.
Some cats are fed diets of exclusively dry kibble or processed foods. Although these cats manage to survive, they can suffer from a host of health problems. These problems can include dehydration (as kibble typically contains very low moisture content), urinary tract issues, obesity, dental problems, digestive problems, diabetes or chronic kidney disease.
What to feed your cat
Crafting a wholesome diet for your cat involves different natural ingredients to meet their nutritional needs. Natural meats such as chicken, rabbit, and fish are excellent protein sources to add to their meals. Ensure these meats are briefly plunged in boiling water to par-cook and then cooled before serving. Breast of mutton, complete with bones is also a great choice to support your cat's health. It's important to shred the meats rather than mincing them, offering a texture that aligns with their natural eating habits.
In addition to meats, enhance their meals with tiny sprinklings of finely chopped parsley, offering antioxidant benefits and a rich source of fibre, vitamins, and minerals. A sprinkling of turmeric and ginger a few times a week can help to promote a healthy digestive system. Gradually integrate small portions of nutritional oils like olive oil and hemp seed oil, observing for improvements in their coat shine, skin health, and overall vitality.
Healthy additions for your cat's diet
To add interest to your cat’s diet, you can incorporate ingredients such as sprouted grains and pulses, brown rice or lentils, a teaspoon of finely minced raw salad greens such as parsley, mint, celery, cresses, finely grated carrot (organic) grated raw apple, beaten raw egg, cottage cheese or a tiny sprinkle of desiccated coconut. Fruits like apples and berries and supplemental seaweed powder can also add flavour and keep your cat coming back for more.
With this thoughtful approach to their diet, your feline companion can indulge in a flavourful and balanced culinary experience tailored to their well-being.
