In the past, the recommended feeding practices for cats were based on our knowledge about the nutritional needs of dogs. Cats were treated like small dogs, but we now know their needs are very different.  Recent research concerning the nutritional needs of cats shows that by changing their diet, we can help treat or even avoid certain diseases like Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD, FUS, cystitis), idiopathic hepatic lipidosis (IHL), diabetes (Type-II, non-insulin dependent), and obesity.

In the wild, cats are strict carnivores who eat very little carbohydrate.  Over time, the feline metabolism has adapted to a low-carbohydrate diet and lost the ability to process large amounts of carbohydrates in their diets.  A high-carbohydrate diet leads to obesity, which in turn can lead to Type II (non-insulin dependent) diabetes.

Commercial dry cat food is very high in carbohydrate—some as high as 30 to 60 percent.  The carbohydrate content is high in order to process this food into a dry formula.  Canned food, especially canned kitten food, is low in carbohydrate and high in protein and fat.  The feline metabolism is ideally suited for converting protein and fat into usable energy without storing it as fat.  Therefore, low-carbohydrate, high-protein, high-fat food is actually better for most felines.

The two best diets for cats are Science Diet feline growth (chicken or turkey) or Iams kitten foods.  However, any brand of canned food is better than the same brand in a dry formula. By putting your cat on the Atkins’ diet (low carbohydrate and high protein), you can help prevent many diseases.

Dr. Jones is a veterinarian at Bells Ferry Veterinary Hospital in Acworth.