Cats have been domesticated and kept as pets for thousands of years, and there’s no denying that our feline friends enrich our lives. But felines aren’t without their health risks and dietary needs, which can vary depending on their age and stage of life. Making sure your kitty eats the right foods can help improve his or her health and well-being, so here are 10 delicious foods you should give to your cat from time to time.
1) Salmon
Salmon is one of the healthiest foods to eat and it can be pretty delicious. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for the brain and help reduce inflammation. This fish is also high in protein, which helps keep muscles strong. A great way to introduce this food into your cat’s diet is by adding it into their wet food as a topping or sprinkle on top of their dry food.
2) Turkey Breast
There are many benefits of giving turkey breast to your cat, including improved digestion and weight management. Cats are obligate carnivores and this means they need meat in order to live well. Turkey is an excellent choice because it’s high in protein, low in fat, gluten-free and one of the most popular meats consumed by people today.
3) Eggs
Cats are obligate carnivores and require high protein diets that are often supplemented with taurine. This nutrient is essential in maintaining a healthy heart and retina. Cats lack the ability to produce taurine, so this must be supplemented in their diet by either eating animals like mice, rats, or rabbits or by consuming taurine-rich animal products such as eggs. One egg contains about 186 milligrams of taurine which is more than enough for an average sized adult feline.
4) Spinach
Spinach is an excellent source of magnesium, iron, vitamin C, and folate. It also contains lutein, which has been found to protect the retina from damage and can help prevent blindness. Spinach is also loaded with potassium, which helps keep the heart healthy. The high levels of beta-carotene in spinach can help heal skin conditions like acne and psoriasis.
5) Pumpkin
Pumpkin is packed with fiber, which can help regulate digestion. This means less hairballs! Pumpkin is also high in antioxidants and vitamins, which are great for skin and coat health. Some of the other healthy benefits pumpkin provides include relief from arthritis pain and improving moods. Pumpkin can be pureed into a soup or baked into cookies, muffins or other sweet treats.
6) Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese is a delicious and nutritious snack for your kitty. It has the perfect balance of protein, fat and carbohydrates that will keep them feeling full and satisfied. Cheddar also has significant amounts of calcium and phosphorous which are important for their health too. And, in case you were wondering, yes it’s okay to share cheddar with your kitty as long as it’s not too much!
7) Halibut
Halibut is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential fats that cats need. These fats are important for healthy skin and fur, neurological function, and the development of new cells. Halibut also contains selenium, which helps prevent cancer and is needed for a healthy immune system.
8) Chicken Breast
A lot of people think that cats are carnivores and that they will just eat anything. While this is true, they only need a small amount of animal protein in their diet. Chicken breast is the perfect food because it is high in protein but low in fat and calories. It also has essential nutrients like vitamin A, B vitamins, potassium, and selenium. In addition, chicken has natural enzymes that help with digestion which can be beneficial for pets who have sensitive stomachs or allergies.
9) Kale
Kale is an excellent food choice for cats. It is high in iron, calcium, and Vitamin A. Cats cannot produce enough of the enzyme needed to process Vitamin A so it’s important that they get enough from their diet. Kale also contains potassium, which helps maintain muscle tone and regulate heart rhythm.
10) Avocado
Avocados are delicious and have been shown to be good for hair and skin, but did you know that they’re also great for cats? An avacado is mostly made up of monounsaturated fat, which is what makes it so healthy. Avocados can help keep the fur on your kitty shiny and soft, while being nutritious and delicious.