Join the fun and stay informed

Different Cats with Different Needs

A cat between the ages of 1and 6 years is considered an adult cat. These cats need controlled levels of magnesium, phosphorus, sodium and energy to help maintain their health. Additionally, they need adequate taurine to help maintain normal heart function, eye structure and reproduction.

Different cats have different nutritional needs. Think about your cat - does he have problems with hairballs, bad breath, or itchy, flaky skin? Does he have a low activity level or tend to gain weight easily? Proper nutrition can help with these problems.

Obesity is the most common nutritional disease of cats. Obesity is common due to the common practice of leaving cat food in the bowl for cats to eat at any time. Obese cats are also at risk for lower-urinary tract disease. Urinary tract disease is usually caused by over-consumption of minerals, such as magnesium, which must then be excreted through the kidneys. A cat prone to obesity needs a low-fat, moderate-fiber food to help keep him trim and feeling full without reducing his food intake.

Another important health concern for adult cats is kidney disease, which is the primary cause of non-accidental death in cats. To help promote healthy kidneys, avoid feeding your cat excessive amounts of phosphorus, protein and salt. Other common risk factors for kidney disease are age, severe dehydration, heart failure, liver failure, kidney infections, certain antibiotics, accidental consumption of antifreeze, high blood pressure, certain cancers and obstructions of the urinary tract.

Back to Top