If my outdoor cat hunts, does that mean he’s missing something in his diet? - Blue Oasis Pet Hospital
No, a cat is going to hunt because it's a natural behavior and an instinctual behavior for a cat. If they are outside, they will often hunt because it's fun and normal. They are not missing something out of their diet; they're just supplementing their diet with prey.
Are prescription diets better for my cat? - Blue Oasis Pet Hospital
Prescription diets are recommended when there is a medical reason for it. It's not recommended for just the general healthy cat to have a prescription diet. A prescription diet is not necessarily more healthy for your cat; it's just been prescribed for a medical reason.
Is wet food more nutritious than dry cat food? - Blue Oasis Pet Hospital
Wet food is not necessarily more or less nutritious than dry cat food; they just offer different nutrition. Canned food has a high amount of water content, but it can also be highly nutritious for your cat. Oftentimes, a canned-only diet is recommended for various medical issues.
Can my cat live on a vegetarian diet? - Blue Oasis Pet Hospital
No, cats should not be fed a vegetarian diet. In fact, if they are fed a vegetarian diet over a period of time, they will actually die. They are obligated to eat protein, as they are carnivores.
How does an elimination diet work? - Blue Oasis Pet Hospital
An elimination diet is recommended for cats experiencing gastrointestinal issues or skin problems. This diet involves feeding your cat a specific diet for a certain period, usually limiting the protein sources to one or using a hypoallergenic diet. By reducing the food ingredients to a select few, you can help manage your cat's health issues. If you have specific questions about harmful foods or proper cat nutrition, consult with your veterinarian or reach out to a pet hospital for guidance.
Can changing my cat’s diet suddenly cause harm? - Blue Oasis Pet Hospital
Switching your cat's diet abruptly could potentially cause gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. However, cats are generally more tolerant than dogs when it comes to changing their food. It's not uncommon for pet owners to feed their cats different types of canned food with various proteins, which cats can usually tolerate well.
Can I feed my cat human food? - Blue Oasis Pet Hospital
Yes, you can feed your cat certain human foods, but it's recommended to limit the amount given. Sharing small portions of cooked meats like chicken and turkey, or cooked fish like tuna, is generally safe. Some vegetables and fruits are also safe for cats, such as spinach. However, it's important to remember that feeding your cat too much human food might lead to behavioral issues related to begging.
How do I know what foods are toxic to cats? - Blue Oasis Pet Hospital
You might not know which foods are toxic to cats unless your cat has consumed something and experienced negative consequences, such as vomiting or diarrhea. However, some known harmful foods for cats include milk and dairy products (as cats are lactose intolerant), foods containing onion or garlic, grapes and raisins, avocado, and raw meat due to potential contamination from bacteria like E. coli or salmonella.
Is dry food, wet food, or a combination of both best for cats? - Blue Oasis Pet Hospital
The choice between dry, wet, or a combination of both foods depends on your cat's preference. For kittens, it is recommended to offer both types of food so they can develop a preference. As they grow older, some medical conditions may require them to eat more canned food, so it's beneficial for them to be familiar with both types. Ultimately, the best nutrition for your cat depends on their life stage, lifestyle, and age. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice on your cat's diet.