Not all cat food is created equal. Cats respond in a much different manner than do other animals to certain chemicals. These can be in drugs, foods, plants, and other substances where the cat may contact or ingest these chemicals. A cat’s physiological response is quite different than that of other species of animals. This means your cat has to be watched more closely than might other pets.

Animal diseases are on the rise, and it is believed that this is due to the decrease in proper nutrition. One study watched young animals in a laboratory setting. The animals fed cooked and processed foods appeared at first to do well, but began to have specific health problems as they aged. A control group of animals feed a completely raw, specially constructed diet did not have the problems with aging as did the experimental group. They concluded that cats fed a raw meat diet, formulated to their specific needs, fared better and were healthier. However, other studies have shown that cats did better on a commercially formulated diet that was balanced to their specific needs. This may be in part due to the fact that the individually formulated diet might not have been consistent with the balance a cat needs.

Animals observed in the wild do not have the same diseases that domesticated cats do. They thrive and live long and healthily unless they succumb to a predator. Of course, this may in part be due to the survival of the fittest – the strong, healthy animals survive and the weaker ones, suffering from disease, are easily captured. Still, studies done in controlled environments have shown a greater incidence of disease in animals fed commercial, processed diets.

Additional studies have compared dry food to canned food, finding canned superior. Dry food protein is too concentrated in plant-based protein. Cats’ digestive systems require animal-based protein for good health. Also, dry foods are low on that vital nutrient, water. The cat can compensate by drinking more water, but they seldom drink enough. In addition, dry food also has high carbohydrate content. Cats do not need so much carbohydrate. When they consume a diet high in carbohydrate, they are at risk for obesity and the resultant tragic, often fatal health problems.

The conscientious cat-owner will read the labels. Cat foods should contain a minimum of preservatives, cereal and grain fillers, and meat by-products. The main ingredients should be chicken, not chicken by-products, or turkey, not turkey by-products. The food should contain mainly muscle meats, not meat by-products.

Feed your kitty wisely and you will enjoy a long, healthy life with a fun, energetic playmate and companion.