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Grains are basic energy foods - a source of complex carbohydrates – and so you might wonder what the benefit of a grain free diet is for your cat. Here you’ll find out more about feeding your cat a grain free diet and why choosing the right food can make them happier and healthier.
“CATS DON'T EAT GRAINS SUCH AS RICE OR WHEAT AS PART OF THEIR NATURAL DIET”
LOOK FOR GRAIN FREE RECIPES
Cats are obligate carnivores (meaning they must eat meat or fish to live healthily). In fact, research has shown that cats have minimal ability to digest and make use of carbohydrates in their diet, as they don’t produce salivary amylase (an enzyme that breaks down starch). Cats don’t eat grains such as rice or wheat as part of their natural diet, which may be an old survival mechanism to prevent them from consuming plants that would be poisonous to them.
WHAT WOULD A CAT'S NATURAL DIET BE?
A cat’s natural diet is meat and offal which is a reflection of their natural prey. Felines will consistently choose a diet that reflects as closely as possible the same level of proteins, carbohydrates and fats that are contained in their natural prey of mice and birds. This is around 52% protein, 36% fat and 12% carbohydrates.
“LOOK FOR A NUTRITIONALLY COMPLETE, GRAIN FREE RECIPE FOR YOUR CAT, MADE WITH NATURAL INGREDIENTS”
What kind of grain free food should I choose for my cat?
Look for a nutritionally complete, grain free recipe for your cat, made with natural ingredients. Many conventional dry cat foods usually contain a high proportion of carbohydrate because the manufacturing process requires the starch to help the kibble stick together; it acts rather like a glue. Grain free dry foods are often produced in a more natural way, so no grains are needed for binding at all.
The information in this article is intended as a guide to help pets and pet parents on their journey together. It is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for professional advice from a vet, behaviourist, trainer or other professional. We encourage all pet parents to consult with their vet and/or behaviourist to ensure their pet’s specific needs are met.
