Whisker-Lickin’ Good: A Purr-fect Guide to Feeding Your Feline Companion

The Downside of Kibble for Cats

Let’s face it, kibble for cats is convenient. It’s easy to store, doesn’t spoil quickly, and doesn’t require precious fridge space. However, this doesn’t necessarily make it the best choice for your cat’s health. Kibble diets have some downsides that every cat guardian should be aware of:

1. Lack of Hydration

Cats are notoriously bad at staying hydrated. Kibble has a low moisture content, which can contribute to chronic dehydration. Keeping your cat hydrated can help promote a healthy bladder and kidneys.

2. Carb Overload

Kibbles are loaded with carbohydrates. In order to make a small crunchy ball, there has to be some source of carbohydrates such as potato, legumes, grains, or corn.  Cats, as obligate carnivores, have minimal requirements for carbs in their diet. Excessive carbohydrates can lead to obesity and other inflammatory diseases.  

3. Dental Health

Contrary to popular belief, kibble doesn’t do wonders for your cat’s dental health. In fact, the high carbohydrate content can actually promote dental plaque and gum disease.

Healthy Alternatives to Kibble for Cats

Now that we’ve discussed the drawbacks of kibble for cats, let’s delve into some positive alternatives to kibble that can make your kitty’s taste buds tingle with joy and help their bodies celebrate greater health.

1. Canned Diets

Canned cat food is a fantastic choice for your feline friend. It offers several advantages over kibble for your cat:

• Moisture-Rich: Canned food is packed with moisture, helping keep your cat well-hydrated.
• High Protein: Cats are apex predators and require a high-protein diet to maintain optimal health.
• Tasty Varieties: There’s a world of flavors, textures, and formulas across many reputable brands. With so many options, even the choosiest cat is sure to become a canned food fan. 

2. Raw Diets

If you’re a cat person with a penchant for a natural, primal approach to nutrition, a raw diet might be right up your alley. Raw diets for cats typically consist of uncooked meat, organs, bones, and vitamins.  There are many benefits to a raw diet, including: 

• High Protein: Cats are obligate carnivores, and raw diets provide them with a protein-rich diet that mimics what they would eat in the wild.
• Few Carbs: Raw diets are typically low in carbohydrates, reducing the risk of obesity and diabetes.
• Less shedding: Cats that eat a raw diet tend to shed less and have shinier coats. Less cat hair on your clothes and your couch; that’s a raw food bonus perk! 
• Better-smelling poops: Raw-fed cats produce smaller, less odorous poops and poop less frequently. This is attributed to eating a more nutrient-dense diet and therefore utilizing more of the nutrients in their food and producing less waste.

3. Home-Cooked Diets

For the culinary cat lover, whipping up a home-cooked meal for your feline friend can be a rewarding experience. It allows you to select every ingredient and add a few doses of love to every meal.

• Tailored Nutrition: You can customize meals to your cat’s preferences and dietary needs, making it perfect for picky eaters or cats with food sensitivities. You can create a balanced recipe for your kitty at Balance It.  
• High-Quality Ingredients: By using high-quality ingredients, you can ensure that your cat gets the best-sourced meats.

Your kitty’s health and happiness are heavily dependent on their diet. While kibble for cats might be the most convenient option, it may not be the best choice for your cat’s long-term well-being. Canned diets, raw diets, and home-cooked meals offer healthier alternatives that can keep your kitty in optimal health. So, why wait? It’s time to ditch the kibble and embark on a culinary adventure that your cat will thank you for with every whisker-licking bite!

Big hugs,