Cat Health & Safety

Many people believe that feeding dry food only will help keep their cat’s teeth clean and healthy, but that’s often not the case. The real benefits of kibble are usually convenience (can be left out longer and not as “gross” or smelly) and cost (often cheaper). However, there are far more drawbacks to a dry-food-only diet — it can actually wind up being less convenient and more expensive in the end. Kibble has less moisture than canned food, increasing a cat’s risk of bladder inflammation, stones, constipation, and urinary tract obstruction. Also, dry foods are usually higher in carbohydrates and lower in protein, increasing a cat’s risk of obesity and diabetes. Your best bet is to feed BOTH types! Give your cat the majority of their calories in high protein, low carb, wet food — two meals daily, not just “the occasional treat.” Then, provide the rest of their daily calories with a measured amount of a high-quality dry food. As for their teeth, check out Tip #46.