Minerals And Vitamins In Cat Food

Proteins, fats and carbohydrates are macronutrients, whereas vitamins and minerals are micronutrients, they only required in only small quantities. A cat synthesizes vitamin C for itself, and therefore need no extra.

Vitamins A, D, E and K work together to refine the bodily functions, and they should all be present in a healthy, balanced diet, together with the vitamins of the B complex.

An excess of vitamins can be harmful. Cats fed exclusively on liver, for example, which they love because of the high fat content, may be getting an overdose of vitamin A which is stored in the liver.

This can lead to serious arthritic problems involving the legs and spine, even in young cats. Minerals need to be available in the correct amounts which, in turn, have to be correct in relation to each other.

The daily requirements even of macro minerals, which include phosphorus, calcium, sodium, potassium and magnesium, are measured in milligrams. Trace or micro minerals are also necessary, but daily requirements are measured in micrograms.

A cat that has a regular and balanced diet is unlikely to suffer from mineral deficiency, and supplements should not be necessary.

Calcium and phosphorus, for example, are both present in milk, and are very important for the growing kitten. Kittens fed on an all meat diet and deprived of adequate supplies of milk will develop serious bone abnormalities because they are receiving too much phosphorus present in meat protein, and not enough calcium.

For many years, Siamese breeders weaned their kittens on to a meat and water diet in the belief that milk caused diarrhea. As a result, bone problems often occurred.

Commercially available snacks, such as the biscuits and milk flavored drops, should be given in ones and twos, as an occasional treat, not in bowlfuls as a main meal.

A determined attempt to reach the treats at the bottom of the jar is likely to end in success. It is wise to keep cat friendly food in sealed containers in cat proof cupboards if you do not want your pet to help itself at will.