Page 57 - Raw Diet References Book 2019

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TIDBIT
Exposure to certain flavors and textures of food early in life can shape strong
preferences later on, as can meal temperature, odor, texture, and taste.
It’s important to gradually mix the familiar food with the new food before
switching completely.

they may be better off eating canned cat food, which contains 78–82% water, simply
adding water to dry food will also help to protect against stone formation.

Q: How can I help my overweight cat trim down?
A: The most obvious answer is to put less of the same type of food in its bowl each
day, still allowing it to eat at all times of the day. This is not the same as letting it eat
as much as it wants at all times. About 30 to 40% of cats will overeat and
become fat if given this latitude. Some cat owners offer less appeal-
ing food. Another option is to feed one of the low-calorie cat
foods on the market. It’s also important to remember to
keep your cat from sampling the cat-next-door’s food
and to refrain from giving it table scraps.

Q: Is it true that cats are finicky eaters?
A: It is true that taste, texture, and moisture
content of food is more important to cats
than it is to dogs. Cats will choose foods
on the basis of these features rather
than nutritional adequacy. That is why it
is important for cat owners to make
sure their pets are getting the recom-
mended amounts and mix of all of the
essential vitamins, minerals, and
other nutrients.

In contrast to dogs, cats will not eat a
powdered, commercial diet. They
will, however, eat the same diet if it is
provided as pellets, in a mash, or in gel
form. Typically, they like the gel form
the best. They are more sensitive to bit-
ter taste than dogs and prefer warm to
cold food.

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