Feeding your feline friend

• Cats are different to humans and need a higher fat diet. Typically their diets can contain one third of the total energy as fat which is approaching the maximum recommended for humans by the WHO. And they’re confirmed carnivores who need animal protein and fat to stay in peak condition.
• Remember cats are not all the same. Kittens and older cats have totally different needs, so be sure to buy the right lifestage food for your cat.
• Bear in mind that active cats that spend time outdoors need more calories than a cat who’s only exercise is jumping onto the sofa. And cats that have been neutered will need fewer calories. Talk to your veterinarian bout the best diet to fit your cat’s needs.
• Dry food suits most cats and helps keep teeth healthy. It can also be left out for a few hours if your cat likes to eat little and often.
• Wet food won’t keep and should be thrown away after 30 minutes.
• Always make sure there is clean drinking water available, especially if you feed dry food.
• Always check the label. Choose food which lists animal protein (fish, chicken, lamb etc.) as one of its top ingredients – the higher up the list, the more it contains.
• Always follow the recommended feeding guidelines and weigh out the right daily amount on accurate scales.
• Look out for carbohydrate ingredients like maize or wheat which are good for energy.
• Vitamin-rich fish oils and good animal fat will help keep your cat’s coat and skin in tip top condition.

Finally – a quick lesson in cat food economics. Cheap food isn’t always cheaper. It’s the cost per meal that counts. Divide the price at the checkout by the number of days the food lasts, and then by the number of meals per day. You’ll soon see which food gives best value for money.