As a cat owner, you may often wonder: what do cats eat? The answer is not as simple as it might seem because, like people, cats have specific dietary needs that must be met to ensure their health and well-being. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means that their diet must primarily consist of animal-based proteins. Unlike dogs, which are omnivores, cats have evolved to rely on meat for their nutritional needs.

In this article, we’ll explore the different components of a cat’s diet, what foods are safe for them, and how you can make sure your feline companion gets the nutrients it needs.

The Basics of Feline Nutrition

Cats have very specific nutritional requirements. In the wild, they are obligate carnivores, meaning they must eat meat to survive. Unlike humans or even dogs, who can digest plant matter, cats require certain nutrients that are only found in animal tissues. Here are some key nutritional components in a cat's diet:

• Protein: This is the most important part of a cat’s diet. Cats need high levels of protein, primarily from animal sources like meat, poultry, and fish, to support muscle growth, repair, and other vital functions.
• Taurine: Taurine is an essential amino acid that is found in animal-based proteins. Cats cannot produce taurine on their own, which is why it is vital that it is included in their diet. Taurine supports heart health, vision, and reproductive function.
• Fats: Healthy fats are a major source of energy for cats. They are important for maintaining a healthy coat and skin, and help with the absorption of vitamins. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are found in fish and other meats, are especially beneficial.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Cats require specific vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A (which they cannot produce from plant-based foods), calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. These nutrients support bone health, immune function, and overall well-being.
• Water: Cats need fresh water available at all times. In the wild, cats get most of their moisture from their prey, but domestic cats need to drink water from a bowl or water fountain, especially if they eat dry food.

Understanding these nutritional needs will help you select the best food for your cat and ensure that it remains healthy and happy.

What Do Cats Eat in the Wild?

In the wild, cats primarily hunt for prey such as small mammals, birds, and insects. Their diet consists mainly of animal protein, fat, and a small amount of carbohydrates from the stomach contents of their prey. Here’s a breakdown of what a wild cat’s diet looks like:

• Protein: Wild cats obtain most of their protein from the muscles and organs of the animals they hunt. This high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet is perfectly suited to their physiology.
• Fat: Fat from the prey is also an important part of a cat’s diet. This provides essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6, which are crucial for maintaining healthy fur and skin.
• Water: Wild cats get most of their moisture from their prey, which is often around 70% water. This is why it’s important to feed domestic cats wet food or ensure they drink enough water if you’re feeding them dry kibble.
• Fiber: While cats don’t rely on plant matter for nutrition, they may ingest small amounts of plant material when eating the stomach contents of their prey, which can provide some fiber.

What Do Domestic Cats Eat?

For domesticated cats, it’s not always feasible to hunt for food. Instead, cats rely on their owners to provide them with a balanced, nutritious diet. Here's a breakdown of the types of food domestic cats can eat:

1. Commercial Cat Food

The easiest way to meet your cat’s nutritional needs is by feeding it commercial cat food, which comes in two main forms: wet food and dry food. These products are formulated to provide all the nutrients that cats need, including protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals.

• Wet Food: Canned cat food or pouches contain a high percentage of moisture (about 75-80%), which can help keep your cat hydrated. Wet food is often preferred by cats because it mimics the moisture content of their natural prey. It also tends to be more palatable for cats that may have dental issues or are picky eaters. Wet food can be more expensive than dry food, but it offers great benefits for your cat’s health.
• Dry Food: Dry cat food is convenient and can be left out for longer periods. It typically contains less moisture (around 10%) and is more concentrated in calories. However, it’s essential to ensure your cat is drinking enough water when eating dry food to avoid dehydration. Some cats also enjoy the crunch of dry food, which can help keep their teeth clean.

2. Raw Food Diet

Some cat owners choose to feed their cats a raw food diet (also known as a BARF diet—Biologically Appropriate Raw Food). This diet mimics the natural prey of wild cats, consisting of raw meat, bones, and organs. Proponents of the raw food diet believe that it provides a more natural, species-appropriate meal for cats. However, feeding raw food requires careful preparation and a deep understanding of feline nutrition to ensure a balanced diet and to avoid health risks from bacteria or parasites.

3. Homemade Cat Food

Some owners choose to prepare homemade meals for their cats. While this can be a good option, it's very important to make sure the food is nutritionally complete. Cats have specific dietary requirements, and making sure your homemade cat food provides the correct balance of protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals is critical. Consulting with a veterinarian or pet nutritionist is recommended if you’re considering preparing your cat’s meals at home.

Safe Foods for Cats

While cats are obligate carnivores, there are a few safe foods that they can eat in moderation, apart from their regular cat food:

• Cooked Meat: Cats can enjoy cooked meat such as chicken, turkey, beef, or lamb. It’s important that the meat is cooked thoroughly and that no seasoning, garlic, or onions are added, as these can be toxic to cats.
• Fish: Cats love fish, such as tuna or salmon. Fish can be given in moderation as an occasional treat. Be sure to remove bones before feeding it to your cat.
• Eggs: Cooked eggs are a good source of protein for cats. Scrambled or boiled eggs are best, but make sure they are fully cooked to avoid the risk of salmonella.
• Pumpkin: Small amounts of cooked or canned pumpkin can aid in digestion and help with hairballs or constipation.
• Cheese: While cats are lactose intolerant to varying degrees, a small amount of cheese may be given as a treat. Watch for any signs of digestive upset.
• Cat Grass: Some cats enjoy nibbling on grass. It can help with hairballs and provide fiber in their diet.

Foods to Avoid for Cats

There are many foods that are toxic or harmful to cats and should be avoided:

• Onions and Garlic: Both can cause anemia and damage red blood cells in cats.
• Chocolate: Contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to cats.
• Grapes and Raisins: These can lead to kidney failure in some cats.
• Alcohol: Even small amounts of alcohol can be deadly to cats.
• Caffeine: Coffee, tea, and other caffeinated products can cause rapid heart rate, tremors, and seizures.
• Dairy: Many adult cats are lactose intolerant, and dairy can cause digestive upset.
• Bones: Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries.

Conclusion: What Do Cats Eat?

So, what do cats eat? As obligate carnivores, cats require a diet that is primarily made up of high-quality animal protein. Commercial cat food (wet or dry) is the best way to meet their nutritional needs, though some owners choose to feed raw or homemade diets under the guidance of a professional.

In addition to their main food, cats can enjoy a variety of safe, protein-rich treats such as cooked meat, fish, eggs, and some vegetables. However, it’s crucial to avoid harmful foods like onions, chocolate, and alcohol.

By providing a balanced diet and ensuring your cat gets all the nutrients it needs, you’ll help your feline friend stay healthy and live a long, happy life. If you're ever unsure about your cat's diet or are considering making changes, it’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian for guidance.