Cats and Food ...

Like us, food is essential for cats! But how do they prefer it served and what makes it more appealing? Here are some hints and tips that your cat would appreciate: Separate food bowls, water bowls and litter trays. Cats have an extremely well developed sense of smell and do not like to eat where… Read more »

Like us, food is essential for cats! But how do they prefer it served and what makes it more appealing?

Here are some hints and tips that your cat would appreciate:

  • Separate food bowls, water bowls and litter trays. Cats have an extremely well developed sense of smell and do not like to eat where the litter tray is nearby. Also due to contaminating their water with their food (prey), they like this to be separated too. Generally in a completely different room if possible!
  • I would recommend a good quality diet. For healthy cats we recommend the Royal Canin life stage diets depending on their age and then Applaws or fresh cooked meat alongside this for additional protein. These diets are good as they are complete and also contain S/O index which prevents urinary crystals forming in the bladder. Cats like high levels of protein and fat in their diet as they are very palatable. Feel free to ask about diets in the clinic.
  • Feed little and often or at consistent times as cats like routine.
  • Cats like shallow bowls because they do not like contact with their whiskers and preferably not plastic as it withholds smells. Ceramic is often a favourite as it does not show a reflection.
  • Food should be served at body temperatures (for cats this I around 35°c) or slightly warmed to enhance the taste. This enhancement of taste and smell gives a better flavour.
  • Food should always be fresh! If left down for more than around 20 minutes, cats will often refuse to eat it! So it may be best to put down smaller portions at a time.