Common nutritional problems in small cat breeds
When it comes to caring for our fluffy four-legged friends, we two-legged friends often can't take a joke. The diet of our small cat breeds is particularly scrutinised, because who doesn't want their little tiger to slurp up the best food? But wait, before we get lost in the jungle of cat food, let's take a look at some Common nutritional problems in small cat breeds and how we can avoid them.
1. when the bowl becomes a challenge: Underweight and deficiency symptoms
Small cat breeds such as the Singapura or Munchkin often have a faster metabolism than their larger counterparts. This can mean that they do not always absorb all the nutrients they need despite having a well-filled bowl. Signs of underweight or deficiency symptoms include
- Thinner coat
- Lethargy
- Delayed development
But don't worry, with a feeding plan tailored to the needs of small breeds, this problem can usually be quickly counteracted.
2 Too much of a good thing: Obesity and its consequences
On the other hand, there is the problem of being overweight. Yes, even our little cuddly cats are not immune to this. Being overweight can lead to a number of health problems, including:
- Diabetes
- Joint problems
- Heart diseases
To prevent this, it's important to adjust the amount of food to your cat's activity and size. And hey, a bit of exercise never hurt a house cat!
3. the thing with moisture: recognising and avoiding dehydration
Dehydration is an often underestimated problem in small cat breeds. Especially in cats that mainly eat dry food, the intake of sufficient fluids is essential. Signs of dehydration can include
- Dry mucous membranes
- Sluggish behaviour
- Sunken eyes
Always make sure your fluffy friend has access to fresh water. A kitten that likes to drink is a healthy kitten!
4. journal of special needs: Food allergies and intolerances
Just like humans, cats can also have allergic reactions to certain ingredients in their food. Common symptoms are Skin problems, digestive disorders or even breathing difficulties. An allergy test at the vet can provide clarity and help to put together a suitable diet. After all, we want our velvet paws to enjoy their food without pinching and nipping!
5 Balance is the be-all and end-all: the importance of a balanced diet
To put it in a nutshell: A balanced diet is the foundation for your cat's health. This includes:
- An appropriate ratio of protein, fat and carbohydrates
- Important vitamins and minerals
- Sufficient fluids
And don't forget: variety is the spice of life - and that also applies to your cat's diet!
6. golden rules for a healthy cat life
To optimise the Common nutritional problems in small cat breeds there are a few golden rules:
- Knowledge is power: Understand the special nutritional needs of your small cat breed.
- Quality before quantity: Invest in high-quality food that has been specially developed for small breeds.
- Water, water, water: Make sure that fresh water is always available.
- Movement: Regular play not only keeps you fit, but also promotes digestion.
- Regular check-ups: An annual visit to the vet helps to recognise nutritional problems at an early stage.
At the end of the day, we all want the best for our little furballs. By working with the Common nutritional problems in small cat breeds and learn how to avoid them, we can ensure a long, happy and healthy life for our little companions. On the bowls, get set, go!
FAQs
What should small cats eat?
From the third month of life, kittens only eat kitten food. To get them used to solid food, you can start with small portions of kitten food. If the food is not accepted, you can add a little rearing milk at the beginning to increase acceptance.
How often do small cats get food?
Normally two, preferably three meals a day are sufficient for adult cats with an average activity level, while kittens need up to five meals a day.
What is the best food for kittens?
The first food for kittens The best thing to start with is mash made from mixed cat's milk from a specialist shop or pharmacy. This is diluted in a ratio of 1:2 with warm water and enriched with oat or rice gruel (from the human sector).
What should you feed kittens?
Kitten food must have a high meat and vegetable content in order to provide the kitten with the right nutrition. The grain content should definitely be less than 10 per cent. If you want to completely avoid cereals in kitten food, you can opt for the dry food „Orijen - Cat and Kitten “*.
