Cat Healthcare Guide.
Nutrition
Manufacturers now produce ranges of food for cats of specific ages. This is a great advantage as the nutritional needs of a cat will vary depending on its age and you can be certain that your cat is getting a balanced diet by choosing the right food. Kittens can often suffer from diarrhoea when their diets change so it is often suggested that you find out what food it has been given by the breeder and use the same. If you do change the food given, do so over a period of time.
There are two types of food available, dry and wet. Dry foods are convenient to feed and the food can be left out for the cat without attracting unwanted insects but be careful to only leave a measured amount out as some cats can overeat if food is constantly available to them. Ensure that you leave a supply of water available at all times.
Kittens up to 12 weeks old will require feeding 4 times per day. From 3 to 6 months kittens require 3 meals a day. From the age of 6 months, this can be reduced to 2. A lot of people give milk to kittens but this is not recommended as the kittens cannot digest it properly and it can cause diarrhoea. In fact, kittens do not need milk after they have left their mother.
Adult cats have different nutritional requirements to kittens and you may change to an adult food when your cat is around 6-7 months old. Many people try to offer their cat a variety of foods and flavours but this can result in the cat becoming a choosy eater and the owner constantly looking for ways to vary the diet.
It is helpful to stick to a limited range of foods to avoid this problem. How much food your cat needs will depend on its age and level of exercise. Always try to feed the smallest amount possible to avoid overeating. Overweight cats are not as healthy as lean cats. As your cat becomes older, nutritional requirements may change and you will generally need to feed him/her less as fewer calories are used up. Your vet will be able to offer you additional advice during routine yearly check-ups.
Disclaimer
The information contained within this website is intended as a general guide only and is not necessarily comprehensive. AXA Insurance will not be liable for loss or damages arising, in contract, tort or otherwise, directly or indirectly from the use of or reliance upon any information contained in this website. Content sourced from the RSPCA and various other animal welfare and information websites. Guidance compiled by AXA and approved by the RSPCA.