
As cat owners, we do everything in our power to ensure our furry friends are getting the nutrients they need to live long, healthy lives. However, sometimes our cats can be picky eaters and may refuse their food, despite our best efforts. Fortunately, we’ve compiled a list of ways to boost your cat’s dietary habits to ensure they benefit from a nutrient-rich diet.
Make Mealtime Interactive
Cats are natural hunters. Therefore they are more interested in food when they have to work for it, as it enables them to indulge in their natural instincts. Try hiding their food around the house or using puzzle feeders to make mealtime more interactive. This will help to keep your cat interested and engaged in their food.
Provide Fresh Food and Water
This may seem obvious, but many cat owners don’t realize that topping off yesterday’s meal or water bowl is not good for their cat. Cats love fresh, clean bowls. Make sure they always have a fresh water bowl and that their meals are served to them without the remnants of their last meal. This can prevent your cat from becoming dehydrated and improve their nutrient intake.
Transition to New Foods Slowly
If you have assessed your cat’s diet and determined it needs changes, you must execute this process gradually. If you change your cat’s food too abruptly, they may not eat it, and if they do, they may experience unpleasant side effects, such as an upset stomach leading to diarrhea, constipation, or vomiting. You may need to mix small amounts of the new food with your cat’s old food to get them adjusted.
Consult Your Trusted Veterinarian
Perhaps the most valuable resource of all is to schedule a visit with your cat’s trusted veterinarian. Your cat’s veterinarian will be able to examine your cat and run the appropriate tests to determine what your cat needs in their diet in order to live healthily and happily. They will take into account your cat’s age, size, and any health conditions that may compromise their dietary habits so you can formulate a plan of action to get your cat what they need to feel and look their best!
Contact your trusted veterinarian today to schedule your cat’s next checkup!