Feeding Recommendations
Tree House learned a lot from our 30 plus years of cat care and provides these recommendations as a general guideline. Please consult your veterinarian for specific advice regarding your animal companion.
What Kind of Food? We suggest that you feed your cat a variety of quality canned foods. Don’t overdo it with fish flavors – cats love them, but “too much of a good thing” can be harmful.
How Often and How Much? You could start by feeding twice daily, using the food label as a guideline. Then review the amount with your veterinarian during your cat's annual or semi-annual examination. The amount to feed may vary depending on your cat’s ideal weight and activity level. When a cat is adjusting to a new home or situation, twice-a-day wet food feeding ensures that your cat is eating during a particularly stressful time. If desired, dry food may also be provided. Depending on your cat’s specific situation, it might be best to consult with your vet before implementing any diet regimen.
WARNING! Once you open the can of cat food, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. Don’t leave your cat’s food out for more than 20 to 30 minutes, and store unused portions in the refrigerator, preferably in a container other than the original can. Cats generally prefer refrigerated food be warmed to room temperature before feeding.
Why Canned Food? Cats usually rely on their diet for moisture and don’t drink as much water as they might need. Canned foods have much more moisture than dry or “soft-moist” foods. Meal feeding (rather than free-feeding) also gives you an opportunity to monitor your cat’s appetite. Cats fed canned foods may be more likely to develop hyper-thyroidism, but it is unclear why. It could be due to certain chemicals in the linings of pop-top cans or it could be related to the ingredients in particular flavors (such as fish and turkey & giblets).
How About “Soft-Moist” Cat Food? These highly-processed foods come in sealed pouches or canisters and are usually high in magnesium and carbohydrates. Too much magnesium may be linked to urinary problems in cats. The nutritional value isn’t always as good, and the dyes, preservatives, and other additives can cause allergic reactions in some cats.
What About Dry Cat Food? Many cats tolerate dry food and it may be fed in addition to canned food, if desired. Some cats develop health problems such as diabetes, obesity, urinary or kidney problems, diarrhea, or vomiting which may make feeding dry food undesirable. Quality “fixed formula” dry foods are properly balanced for mineral content and available in pet supply stores, feed stores, and through veterinarians. Prescription dry and canned foods are also available through veterinarians for cats with health problems and special dietary needs.
This Food Is Cheaper – Is It the Same? If you are unsure about the quality of your cat food, check the first ingredient. If it is a meat, such as beef, chicken, etc., most likely it’s a good brand. If the first ingredient is not meat (corn, rice, soy, or grain derivatives such as gluten or meal), we would recommend against it. Check for the AAFCO certification for some assurance the food has met minimal nutrient criteria. You should let your vet know what type and brand of food you are feeding. It may be best to feed foods that contain muscle meat (such as chicken or turkey) in addition to or instead of organ meats (such as liver) and byproducts (items not suitable for human consumption).
What About Raw Food? Raw food diets are touted by some as natural and wholesome – while others say they are unsafe, even dangerous. If this feeding option is something you’re interested in, we advise that you discuss it with your veterinarian. If you and your vet decide the potential benefits outweigh the risks, know that careful preparation and hygiene standards need to be followed in order to feed it successfully. Whether feeding a commercial product or making your own, make sure it is nutritionally complete for cats. Cats, although they need to eat meat, cannot live on meat alone – they need nutrients such as calcium, vitamins, etc. as well.
Are Table Scraps OK? We don’t recommend them. Occasional treats of meat (not fried) won’t hurt – in small doses. Don’t feed dairy, fried foods, or sweets – they can contribute to problems such as obesity, diabetes, and stomach upset. Never feed cooked bones – they are sharp and brittle and can cause severe injury.
Should I Give My Cat Milk? We don’t recommend it. Many cats can’t tolerate it (even though they love it!) and will have digestive troubles, including diarrhea.
What Should My Cat Drink? Water! Keep plenty of fresh water available at all times.
If you have any questions about your cat’s diet, nutrition, or behavior, feel free to call our clinic at (773)-784-5488 ext. 232 from 7am to 7pm, 7 days a week.
