Three fundamental types of cat food are available and that is dry, moist or wet. The dry food type, kibbles, are manufactured by being placed under high heat, often with fat sprayed onto it to ensure easier digestion. Vitamins and minerals are added for extra health benefits and normal growth and care. Most felines dislike kibbles although it is often the least expensive food available. The second type is moist food which is far more appealing to cats as it is soft and chewy rather than crunchy. The most loved by cats is wet food which comes in cans or in foil pouches. This type of food generally includes chunks of meat with sauce added or it may be ground.

As cats are natural carnivores, meat would be a big component of their diet, however they do venture to eat some plant food sometimes. When checking on ingredients of their food, ensure that meat is the main ingredient and that other products like corn are not the main component. As cats are prone to kidney diseases, the ash content, which can prevent urinary tract infections and urinary blockages in males, should be low. Taurine, which is an amino acid, will help to maintain good vision and a healthy heart.

Varying types of cat food are available for kittens as well as for older cats. There are also varying types for cats with special needs and for particular breeds.

Kittens have special needs as they need to grow healthy teeth, hair and their body needs to manufacture muscle. As they age they require protein, zinc, calcium, phosphorous, iron and other vitamins and minerals to allow them to grow strong bones and teeth. Protein is also very important to assist in organ and tissue growth.

When kittens grow up, they no longer have the same energy level and fewer calories and less fat is required to maintain their daily energy level. To make allowance for this process, cat food for the aging feline should have a low fat content, protein and carbohydrates that are easy to digest. This will assist in raising their energy levels. Minerals and vitamins should be part of their diet in order to assist with aging joints and to help fight infections. Food with lower phosphorous levels should be given to ensure healthy kidneys.

There are cats who are on a vegetarian diet, and though these foods are fortified with the required taurine and omega 6 fatty acids, this type of diet is not suitable for cats as they are carnivores.

As cats are considered to be picky eaters, the choice of cat food on the market should suffice to satisfy their appetite. To ensure that you experience a long and happy time with your cat, ensure that they get all the necessary proteins, minerals and vitamins that they require.

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