Many pet owners wonder whether it is possible to feed a cat dog food.
After all, at first glance, both types of food look similar and even smell attractive. However, there are serious reasons why such a substitution is unacceptable.
Differences in Needs: Cats Are Obligate Carnivores
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are designed to absorb nutrients primarily from animal food. Dogs are omnivores, and their diet is more varied. Accordingly, the composition of cat and dog food differs significantly.
Protein and Taurine: Vital Components
Cat food contains more protein, which is necessary for maintaining healthy muscles, bones and fur.
In addition, it contains taurine, an amino acid that is essential for vision, cardiac function, and the reproductive system of cats. Dog food does not provide the cat's body with these components.
Fats and Vitamins: Balance for Health
The ratio of fats and vitamins in cat and dog food is also different. Cats need omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and fur, and vitamin A for vision.
The content of these substances in dog food does not meet the needs of the cat's body.
Minerals: keeping to the proportions
The mineral balance in cat and dog food also differs.
Too much or too little of certain minerals can cause serious health problems in cats. For example, too much magnesium and phosphorus in dog food can cause urolithiasis in cats.
Consequences of Feeding Dog Food: From Deficiencies to Diseases
Feeding your cat dog food, even for a short time, can have negative consequences:
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of protein, taurine, fatty acids and vitamins can cause problems with growth, development, skin health, coat, vision and the immune system.
- Digestive problems: Dog food can be too hard for a cat's digestive system, causing stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting.
- Urolithiasis: Excess minerals in dog food can lead to stones forming in the cat's urinary tract.
- Obesity: Dog food is often higher in calories than cat food, which can lead to excess weight gain and obesity in cats.
Choosing Cat Food: Specialized Solutions
To ensure your cat's health and longevity, it is important to choose a specialized food designed to meet its needs.
When choosing, pay attention to the age, breed characteristics and activity level of the pet.
Earlier we talked about why dogs growl while eating .
Expert: Julia Tychino
