A recent survey of 1,000 cat owners has shed light on a significant issue – many cat owners are unsure about their pets’ dietary needs and portion sizes. The study revealed that 17% of cat owners are uncertain about what food their cats should be eating and how much they should be fed. Additionally, 29% of respondents admitted to not knowing the ideal weight for their cats, while 63% only felt somewhat confident about their pets’ overall health.
Sarah McNamara, a nutritionist from cat food brand Harringtons, emphasised the importance of understanding a cat’s nutritional needs for a long and happy life. She highlighted that proper nutrition can help prevent health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and digestive problems. McNamara recommended choosing a balanced diet tailored to a cat’s specific requirements to enhance their energy levels and overall quality of life. Cats, as obligate carnivores, require high-quality, digestible protein to thrive. She advised owners to carefully read food labels for a high meat content and ensure that the protein in the recipe is derived solely from animals.
The survey also uncovered that 27% of respondents are unsure about how active their cats should be, while 24% do not know if any supplements should be provided. Despite these uncertainties, a staggering 95% of cat owners believe that the choice of food is crucial for their pets’ overall health and well-being. Surprisingly, 32% of cat owners admitted to feeding their cats food that they were unsure was suitable, including cheese (39%), bacon (22%), and even pieces of potato (13%).
Concerns about cats’ physical health were reported by 28% of owners, with an additional 23% expressing worries about their cats’ mental well-being. On average, cat owners take their feline companions to the vet three times a year, typically for symptoms like loss of appetite (32%) or excessive sleepiness (19%). Harringtons highlighted the enigmatic nature of cats and urged owners to err on the side of caution, particularly regarding their pets’ diet.
The research underlined the top 10 cat health attributes owners are unsure about, ranging from how a cat’s gums should look to determining the ideal weight for a cat. Understanding these aspects is crucial for providing the best care for feline companions and ensuring their long-term health and happiness.