Eco-Friendly Cat Ownership: Sustainable Products and Practices for Cat Lovers

Sustainability is the need of time as the pollutants in our environments are creating havoc on human health. Eco-friendly alternatives are available for every aspect of life and pet ownership is no exception. From finding nutritious reptile pet food at https://topflightdubia.com/ to choosing the sustainable litter box for your feline friend, the right choices can significantly reduce the impact on our environment. Prioritizing sustainability is the only thing we can do to bring the earth back to its normal state is to stick to eco-friendly practices. This blog post includes some green choices for your feline friend. Let’s get started for more details.

Exploring Green Practices for Eco-Friendly Cat Ownership

Fostering a cat means buying different products for its healthy upbringing. Here are some eco-conscious choices you can make for your fur buddy.

1. Eco-conscious Cat Food

High-quality pet food is the basic need of each pet to ensure a balanced diet. However, traditionally, cat foods are sourced from industrial farming using large amounts of fertilizers, insecticides, and pesticides. Such chemicals have significant carbon emissions. Therefore, it is highly recommended to prioritize locally made organic cat food with minimal packing which has reduced carbon emissions and recyclable leftovers.

2. Eco-Friendly Litter Box

A litter box is a requirement to maintain hygiene. However, the traditional litter boxes are made of non-biodegradable clay. Fortunately, there are some eco-friendly alternatives. The best choice is to use the reusable and washable litter boxes. You can also use biodegradable litter made of recycled paper, corn, and wheat. Likewise, another option is to upcycle shredded newspaper and sawdust.

Sustainable Cat Accessories

Cats are energetic creatures that need adequate toys and accessories to keep them entertained and physically fit. Commonly, cat toys are made of non-biodegradable plastics. However, with a little research, you can find sustainable toys made up of cotton and wool. You can also use old fabrics and socks to make stuffed toys for your feline baby. Similarly, for other accessories like beds, repurpose old cushions and blankets to create a cozy bed without stressing the natural resources.

Sustainable Grooming Products

Grooming is a crucial part of ensuring the hygiene of your cat and keeping it healthy. However, conventional pet care tools have chemicals used in their composition which are harmful to both the environment and your pet. Therefore, you need to opt for shampoos, wipes, balms, and other products that are sourced from ethical and organic resources and are made of natural ingredients like aloe vera, oatmeal, and plant-based oils.

Sustainable Grooming Tools

Many cat owners try to save money on grooming tools and fall into the trap of buying cheap-quality tools which they have to throw away after a few uses. These tools are usually non-recyclable and create millions of grooming tools each year exhausting our natural resources. Therefore, it is important to invest in high-quality and sustainable grooming tools made up of recycled plastics and bamboo which last longer reducing the need to frequently buy their substitutes.

Green Waste Disposal Practices

Many cat owners try to compost the cat litter with kitchen waste. However, this practice is extremely incorrect. Cat waste potentially has many pathogens that can destroy your whole composting practices. Therefore, always handle biodegradable cat litter according to the recommended conditions. Check the local guides about handling cat waste and be a responsible citizen of society with your sustainable choices.

Adopt Water-Wise Practices

Whether it is cats or any other pet, water is the basic requirement. From bathing to staying hydrated, you need a clean water source for your pet. However, certain water-wise practices can help you to limit the water wastage. For drinking purposes, it is highly recommended to use a pet fountain which recirculates water and saves water wastage. Moreover, be mindful of water usage during bathing.

Vote For the Eco-Friendly Pet Brands

You might have seen that brands prefer to modify their products according to the customer’s demands. So, you can compel the manufacturers to create more eco-friendly products by increasing your demand for sustainable products. Support the brands that are bringing organic and eco-conscious products to the market to be a positive part of eco- friendly initiatives and minimize the reduction of non-biodegradable waste production.

Final Words

Eco-friendly cat ownership is about preferring eco-conscious products and opting the sustainable practices that make a significant difference in the damaging state of the earth. Eco-conscious practices create a healthy environment for your fur baby to let it truly enjoy their happy life with their human partner. Go with the above steps and each step will smoothen the way to the greener future.

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Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Caring for Your Exotic Kitten: Expert Tips

Congratulations! Deciding to bring an exotic kitten into your home is the start of a fascinating and rewarding journey. Exotic kittens, with their unique behaviors and striking appearances, offer a special opportunity to form an incredible bond. Before you get swept up in the excitement, it's crucial to understand the responsibilities that come with these adorable companions. Let's dive into the essentials of caring for your new furry friend and make sure you're fully prepared for this wonderful addition to your family.

Understanding Exotic Kitten Breeds

Differentiating Exotic Breeds

Each exotic kitten breed carries its own set of characteristics and charms. For instance, exotic shorthair kittens are known for their laid-back personalities and easy grooming needs compared to their long-haired counterparts. Understanding the specific traits of exotic kitten breeds will help you better cater to their needs and ensure healthy development.

Choosing the Right Breed

When browsing exotic kittens for sale, consider more than just the allure of their looks. Think about how a kitten’s temperament will fit into your lifestyle. Are you looking for a playful, energetic cat, or a calmer companion? Assessing these factors ahead of time will help you choose the right exotic kitten for your home and lifestyle.

Nutrition and Feeding Guidelines

Proper Diet for Exotic Kittens

When it comes to raising a healthy exotic kitten, nothing is more critical than proper nutrition. These kittens require a balanced diet that is particularly rich in proteins and fats, which are essential for their robust growth and overall health. The unique dietary needs of exotic kittens stem from their distinct developmental patterns, which can differ significantly from those of typical domestic cats.

To ensure your kitten thrives, it’s important to feed them high-quality food formulated specifically for their breed. These specialty foods often contain the right balance of nutrients necessary to support the developmental needs of exotic breeds, including appropriate amounts of taurine to promote healthy heart and eye function. Consulting with a veterinarian who has experience with exotic breeds can provide you with invaluable advice on selecting the best food for your kitten, tailored to their specific age, weight, and health requirements.

Avoiding Common Dietary Mistakes

While it’s tempting to pamper your adorable exotic kitten with an array of treats, maintaining dietary discipline is crucial for their long-term well-being. Common dietary pitfalls can lead to significant health problems down the line. For example, many well-meaning owners are not aware that certain foods, which are harmless to humans, can be extremely toxic to cats. Chocolate, onions, garlic, and raisins are some of the foods that can cause serious health issues. Even small amounts of these can be dangerous, so it’s vital to keep such items out of reach.

Additionally, consistency in your kitten's diet plays a crucial role in preventing digestive issues. Sudden changes in food type or brand can disrupt your kitten’s digestive system, leading to upset stomachs or more severe gastrointestinal distress. If a change in diet is necessary, it should be done gradually, mixing the new food with the old in increasing amounts over several days to allow your kitten’s system to adjust. Regular consultations with your vet can help you navigate the complexities of feeding your exotic kitten correctly, ensuring they grow into a healthy adult cat.

Health Care and Regular Check-Ups

Essential Veterinary Care

Start your kitten's life on the right paw with early veterinary visits to establish a health baseline. Regular check-ups will catch any potential health issues early, and keeping up with vaccinations is critical, especially for kittens who will spend time outside.

Monitoring Health and Growth

Keep an eye on your exotic kitten’s development through regular vet visits and by monitoring their behavior at home. Early detection of health issues in exotic breeds can prevent more serious problems and ensure a long, happy life.

Socialization and Training

Early Socialization Techniques

Exotic kittens are naturally curious and adaptable, but early socialization is key to developing a well-rounded cat. Expose your kitten to various sights, sounds, and smells, as well as to different people and, if possible, other pets. This will help them grow into confident and sociable adults.

Training Your Exotic Kitten

Despite their sometimes independent nature, exotic kittens can be quite receptive to training. Basic commands, litter training, and scratch-post training are essential for a harmonious home. Reward-based training techniques work well and can help strengthen your bond.

Grooming and Daily Care

Grooming Needs of Exotic Breeds

Even low-maintenance breeds like exotic shorthair kittens require regular grooming to keep their coat and skin healthy. Brushing a few times a week, regular ear cleaning, and nail trimming should be part of your routine.

Creating a Safe and Stimulating Environment

Kittens are playful and energetic, and providing a stimulating environment is crucial for their development. Scratch posts, toys, and regular playtime are essential, not only for their physical health but also for their mental well-being.

Conclusion: Fostering a Lasting Bond

Caring for an exotic kitten offers a unique opportunity to watch a truly distinct personality unfold. By understanding the specific needs of exotic kitten breeds, you're well on your way to becoming a confident and loving owner. Remember, whether you’ve chosen one of the many exotic kittens for sale or adopted, the journey you embark on with your new kitten is sure to be filled with love, challenges, and lots of purrs. Here’s to a long and happy life with your new exotic kitten!

Embrace the journey of raising an exotic kitten with the knowledge and tips shared here, ensuring your new companion thrives under your care and affection.

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Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Tips for First-Time Cat Owners

Welcoming a cat into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience. Cats are known for their independence, affectionate nature, and playful personalities. However, first-time cat owners may find the experience overwhelming. To make the transition smoother, we've compiled some essential tips for new cat owners. Additionally, you can order personalized instructions or guides on cat care from a service that specializes in paper writings to further assist you on this journey.

Preparing Your Home

Before bringing your cat home, ensure your living space is ready. Cats are curious creatures, and preparing your home in advance can help them adjust more easily.

Cat-Proofing Your Space

• Secure loose wires and cables.

• Remove toxic plants and substances.

• Ensure windows and balconies are cat-safe.

Essential Supplies

Invest in the following items to make your cat feel at home:

• Litter Box: Place it in a quiet, accessible location.

• Food and Water Bowls: Ensure fresh water is always available.

• Scratching Posts: Protect your furniture and satisfy your cat's need to scratch.

• Toys: Stimulate your cat’s mind and provide exercise.

Understanding Cat Behavior

Cats communicate differently than dogs or humans. Learning to understand their behavior is crucial for building a strong bond.

Body Language

• Tail Position: A high, relaxed tail indicates happiness, while a low or tucked tail can signify fear.

• Ears: Forward-facing ears show interest, while flattened ears suggest fear or aggression.

• Purring: Often a sign of contentment, but can also indicate distress.

Socialization

• Gradual Introduction: Allow your cat to explore their new environment at their own pace.

• Positive Reinforcement: Use treats and affection to encourage desired behaviors.

Health and Nutrition

Maintaining your cat’s health is vital for their well-being. Regular veterinary care and a balanced diet are key components.

Regular Vet Visits

Schedule an initial vet visit soon after bringing your cat home. Regular check-ups can prevent health issues and ensure your cat is up-to-date on vaccinations.

Balanced Diet

• High-Quality Food: Choose a diet appropriate for your cat’s age, weight, and health needs.

• Hydration: Ensure your cat drinks enough water, especially if they eat dry food.

Creating a Comfortable Environment

A comfortable environment is essential for your cat's happiness. Here are some tips to make your home more cat-friendly.

Safe Spaces

Cats need their own space to retreat to when they feel stressed. Provide cozy hiding spots, such as cat beds or covered areas, where they can relax undisturbed.

Play and Enrichment

Interactive play is crucial for your cat’s physical and mental health. Regular play sessions help to reduce stress and prevent behavioral issues.

• Laser Pointers: Great for chasing games.

• Feather Wands: Encourage hunting instincts.

• Puzzle Feeders: Stimulate your cat’s mind during meal times.

Grooming and Hygiene

Regular grooming is essential for keeping your cat healthy and happy. It also provides an opportunity to bond with your pet.

Brushing

• Frequency: Brush your cat regularly to reduce shedding and prevent matting.

• Tools: Use appropriate grooming tools for your cat’s coat type.

Nail Trimming

• Regular Trimming: Keep your cat’s nails trimmed to prevent overgrowth and reduce the risk of scratches.

• Technique: Use cat-specific nail clippers and be cautious not to cut too close to the quick.

Solving Common Problems

New cat owners often encounter a few common issues. Understanding how to address these problems can make your experience more enjoyable.

Litter Box Issues

If your cat isn’t using the litter box, it might be due to several reasons:

• Cleanliness: Keep the litter box clean and scooped daily.

• Location: Ensure the litter box is in a quiet, easily accessible area.

• Type of Litter: Some cats have preferences for certain types of litter.

Scratching Furniture

Cats scratch to mark territory and maintain their claws. To prevent damage to your furniture:

• Provide Alternatives: Offer scratching posts or pads.

• Training: Use positive reinforcement to encourage your cat to use the appropriate items.

Excessive Meowing

If your cat is meowing excessively, it might be due to:

• Attention-Seeking: Spend more quality time with your cat.

• Hunger: Ensure your cat is fed at regular intervals.

• Health Issues: Consult a vet if the behavior persists.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a cat owner is a delightful and fulfilling experience. By preparing your home, understanding your cat’s behavior, and maintaining their health and hygiene, you can ensure a happy life for your feline friend. For additional guidance, you can always turn to resources like 99papers to order personalized cat care guides. Remember, patience and love are key to building a strong bond with your new pet.

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Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

5 Major Ways to Bond with Your Cat Better

It is not uncommon to have a cat as part of a family or an individual in these times. In fact, more often than not, families make pets (especially cats) part of their family in this century. According to a recent survey by Forbes, over 65% of American households own pets, and about 40% own cats. Surely, families are seeing the benefits of owning these wonderful pets, or else they would not be so much in American homes.

Cats are vital pets to families as they can offer a wide range of benefits, from emotional support to companionship. Many experts believe that a bond with your cat can increase your life and the pet’s lifespan. However, owners must be intentional about their actions towards their cats.

Looking to bond better with your pet? This article has been curated just for you. Read up to learn more ways to bond with your cat.

Ways to Bond Better With Your Cat

Here are some ways to strengthen the bond with your cat:

• Schedule Some Cat Time

When it comes to the relationship with your pet cat, you should know that cats are just like humans (females especially. One wonders if it’s different with female cats).  Cats need attention, and not just attention, but quality attention. You need to make time to spend with your cat and ensure you spend it well. 

You should not be rubbing their ears or playing games on this website while you scroll on Instagram. Give them your utmost attention when you play with them, and do not forget to throw in some nibbles and treats when you can. Giving them massages and grooming them are also ways to spend quality time with them.

• Go for Walks with Them 

Walking with your cat is also a good way to bond with them. Parks are a good location to do this, but if possible, map out a quiet route and use it. Your cat will surely love you more for this. A scenic walk along the river or beach is always a good choice, and country walks with minimal interruptions with squirrels in the trees are the best! Just ensure you always hold on to the leash, okay?

• Be Patient with Your Cat

As with children, you must be patient with your cats. Patience is a required virtue in dealing with pets and cats. Whether it is helping your cat learn a new trait or helping them settle in new surroundings, patience is vital and necessary. Without this, they might never be at peace with you and around you.

Asking your cats to do much more than they can is sure to discourage them from bonding with you. For instance, they might be shy around visitors and would prefer to lie down in their beds while visitors come to see them. Do not rush the process, okay? 

• Be Positive

Cats bring a lot of joy and happiness but can also cause you to tear your hair out. You could buy the new Nike Air sneakers and find them being eaten by your cat. What do you do then?

Nothing. Yes, nothing.

Cats might not know what’s wrong until you tell them. It is important to be positive about everything to help your cats feel happier and more welcome. Sure, you should, from time to time, express displeasure, but ensure it is few and far between. Cats are happy in happy spaces, so keep your space happy.

Always remember that cats can tune in to our feelings and be affected by them, just like humans. Remember this the next time your cat breaks a cup and eats up your shoes. Again, patience is key.

• Teach Your Cat a New Trick Every Month

Teaching your cat some tricks might seem like a herculean task, especially for specific cats. However, the benefits far outweigh the demerits. Teaching your cat tricks at a young age can increase their socialization skills and mannerisms and help them act better in a myriad of situations. It is not enough to stop at basic obedience training but to go several steps further.

Training your pet cat exercises its brain and improves its cognitive abilities before it reaches its later years. Schedule daily training sessions with your cat and start with basic tricks like rolling over and high-fives.

Cats love to please people and would, naturally, do anything to attain this goal. Cats also love the ancient yet effective game of fetch, which makes the blood tumble along the veins when needed. Your cat will certainly enjoy learning these tricks, so give it a go.

Conclusion

Cats are adorable, furry pets, and we all love to play with them every now and then. You should look to give them the best possible care, love, and attention to ensure your bond strengthens as the days go by. Remember, a cat is man’s best friend. Keep the bond strong, and you have a loyal friend till the end.

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Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

A guide to teaching your children how to safely handle a cat

For a child, there’s nothing quite as exciting as getting a first pet. Often, that’s a cat, as parents know that they can be tactile and safe family pets.

However, handling a cat doesn’t always come naturally to kids. After all, we’ve all winced at the sight of a child carrying a cat by their shoulders, their elongated body swaying left to right. The cat might be easygoing enough to put up with this, but that doesn’t mean that it’s a safe or recommended method of handling.

So, how should you handle a cat? In this guide, we’ll cover a few crucial points to keep in mind, as well as how best to teach them to your child to ensure a pleasant experience – for both them, and the cat.

Let them learn from example

We know that children learn best from watching their caregivers and siblings. That being said, think first about how you handle the cat, before letting your child give it a go.

Remember that your child is sensitive to your emotional reactions, and if they feel that you are anxious when interacting with the cat, they too are likely to feel anxious when it comes to their turn. Try to demonstrate how you hold, carry and pet the cat, so that your child knows what to expect, and can then copy your actions.

Teaching this to multiple children at once can feel like a struggle, but can work in your favour, as siblings and friends will tend to encourage and support each other, making the experience feel much more like a playdate than a lesson.

Help them to empathise with the cat

Talk to your child about how the cat might be feeling in each given moment. Perhaps their back is arched, because they are feeling defensive, or they’re laying on their back, because they are feeling calm and receptive to being handled.

If you ask your child what they think the cat might be telling them through its behavioural cues, they will learn to be more in-tune with its mood and behaviour, and be better equipped for interacting with the cat alone.

Supervise their first interactions

Most children want to be gentle and kind when handling pets. While they may try their best, they are often unaware of how heavy handed they are.

It’s good to keep an eye on your child as they interact with any new cat, for at least the first few meetings. This way, you can be present to guide them and engage in active conversation throughout the experience.

Although rare, unsupervised interactions can lead to bites and scratches for your child if the cat is provoked, and potentially worse harm for the cat if they are mishandled.

Don’t panic

Above all, try not to micromanage when your child first interacts with a cat. It might be tempting to rush in if the first stroke of the cat’s tail isn’t as well received as you had hoped, but it’s best to hold off if you can. This way, your child can build their confidence and will begin to put their intuition to use when it comes to playing with the cat.

Overall

Cats are a wonderful animal that are extremely safe for children to interact with in usual circumstances. Empathy and compassion are crucial when it comes to handling and interacting with any animal – after all, our pets are a part of the family, and we therefore owe them as much love and respect as any other family member.

Click on the links in the article to see where it takes you.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Boost Your Cat's Energy, Happiness and Overall Health With These 6 Tips

If you are a cat owner, you likely understand how rewarding it is to have this furry creature in your family. Their affection and love are often wonderful incredible benefits; however, as a pet owner, it is also important to you to understand your role in this relationship. These small creatures are reliant on you to make all of the decisions that affect their health and wellness. Here are 6 tips that can help improve their overall health, happiness and energy levels that can help you give them the life they deserve.

Well-Balanced Diet

For many pet owners, knowing what to feed your cat can sometimes be tricky. Not only can kitties be a bit picky, but you also need to find the right balance of nutrients. You need to find the right balance of ingredients in their meals. It is key to find options that are low in carbohydrates and fillers and higher in the ratio of protein and fats like Solid Gold. Make sure that their diet supports a healthy system and gives them the energy that they need to play, cuddle and go about their days.

Water Sources

It is not surprising the hydration is a key part of keeping your cat happy and healthy. Kitties will get quite a good bit of their hydration through wet food, and you need to monitor how much wet food and water they are consuming to the best of your abilities. Cats may consume water in a few different forms from bowls of stagnant water around, small kitty water fountains from the tap. You should always have one form of water available for their use at their leisure.

Their Own Space

Kitties are very territorial creatures, and they need to have their own bed or space away from other pets and humans. Having somewhere they can retreat to can help them navigate stressful situations and help them feel safe. Make sure that you find spaces for them to feel comfortable that they can consider their own.

Play Time

Cats spend a significant amount of their time resting and this can often be deceiving for pet parents. While your kitty may need naps, they also need playtime. Much like their human owners, staying active and getting exercise can help them maintain a healthy weight, reduce their risk of dangerous health conditions and keep them happier. While your cat will need playtime, you can also benefit from this, as playing with cats can be incredibly amusing and fun for you as well.

Engagement and Mental Stimulation

Cats were once wild creatures who roamed the earth, exploring and venturing off on their own. While cats have largely been domesticated, their instincts and behaviors are still rooted in their desire to explore. You need to let their natural instincts thrive and find a happy medium between their needs and yours. For indoor cats, there are plenty of ways to keep them engaged and stimulated and everything from cat trees, platforms, backyard engagement enclosures or mentally stimulating toys to help keep them energized, healthy and happy. Not only will this improve their life, but it also can reduce the likelihood of behavioral issues.

A Safe Home Environment

A cat’s natural desire to explore can be a wonderful thing, but it can also present challenges. Cat owners need to be vigilant to ensure that their home is safe and keep toxins away. While cleaning products and other household toxins may seem obvious, cat owners also need to be cognizant of certain types of plants and foods like chocolate, grapes and garlic that can cause tremendous harm if ingested. Make sure that you pet-proof your home as any exposure to harmful agents can cause significant harm to their health and safety.

As a pet parent, there are many things that you need to do to ensure that your furry family member can thrive. Everything from keeping them well-fed to ensuring that you have an engaging space to removing potential risks, there are many things that you need to account for. Do the research that is necessary to have a safe and healthy space for your kitty.

Click on the links in the article to see where it takes you.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Nutrition do's and don'ts for cats

Nothing can substitute a good diet and its health benefits and cats are no exception to this rule. The best way to make your cat friend thrive is to provide it with the best possible nutrition, love, and care. And don't forget: cats in the wild are obligate carnivores, unlike dogs who act more like omnivores.

Even though its lifestyle greatly differs from her ancestors', your cat likely still retains most of her instincts and nutritional requirements. It means that it requires food almost entirely based on protein and fat. With that in mind, nutrition for cats and its do's and don'ts are based on a few very simple rules.

Insight into cat nutrition

It is extremely important to maintain a strong relationship between your cat and its veterinarian, since only they can recommend the best diet for your feline pet. This is partly due to varying requirements cats have at different life stages. Pregnant and lactating cats will need certain supplements in their diet, newborns will drink only milk for a few weeks, and young, adult, and senior cats will all have different nutritional needs.

Throughout your cat's life, you will need to change and adjust its diet, as carefully as possible. Sometimes, you might need to reach out for supplements and vitamins, but only after consulting your cat's veterinarian. Finally, you should avoid common feeding mistakes in cats to keep your pet healthy. Grass that felines sometimes munch on helps with the process of digestion but doesn't have nutritional value. It is a mistake to assume that a diet rich in vegetables benefits cats, as they don't have the enzymes needed to digest veggies.

The most important cat nutrition do's and don'ts

When you're buying cat food, take a good look at the nutrition table on the packaging as well as the list of ingredients. If the list starts with carbohydrates or the list of grains and vegetables is longer than the list of meat, avoid the product. Carbs make cat food less expensive, but cheap cat food will actually cost you more in the long run, not to mention that it is likely not beneficial to your cat.

A way of providing proper nutrition for cats is in the balancing act between an affordable and nutritious diet. However, it is not only food that matters in a cat's life, even though cats make it seem like that. Note that only a happy living environment for your furry friend combined with proper nutrition will keep your cat healthy and extend its life.

Cat nutrition do's

• Always look for a note from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) on the cat food packaging stating that the food is balanced and meets cats’ nutritional requirements.

• Feed your cat at dawn and dusk, as those are the times they would normally hunt for food in nature. Most cats will eat only as much as they need, so you can leave the food out. However, if your pet is not a very good judge of that, always feed them at a specific time and then put all the food away until the next meal.

• On average, a cat's ideal daily intake is about 200 calories, although the number of calories depends on the cat's age, size, and lifestyle. Your cat's vet will tell you exactly how much your pet should eat in a day.

• If your pet's favorite food is not sold anymore, you need to know how to best change your cat's food to a new brand and maintain its required nutritional value. Once again, read the labels carefully and consult with the vet.

• Give commercial cat food to your pet, as it is specifically formulated for cats. However, if you wish to feed your cat the food that you've prepared, talk to your vet first.

• Make sure your cat has its own food bowl and wash it regularly to prevent the build-up of harmful bacteria.

• Always make sure that your cat has access to fresh drinking water, especially during hot months. If their diet consists mostly of wet food (moisture content of about 75% to 78% water) cats will drink less water, but they still need it. In comparison, the water content in dry foods ranges from 6% to 10%.

Cat nutrition don'ts

• Avoid giving your cat cow's milk and raw eggs. Cats are lactose intolerant. Aside from the risk of salmonella, frequent consumption of raw eggs can cause skin inflammation, hair loss, and poor hair growth to your cat.

• Don't overdo it with raw meat. While raw meat is the closest to what they'd eat in the wild, it also may contain bacteria such as salmonella, listeria, E. coli, or parasites. Take very good care when you're feeding your cat raw meat.

• Don't give your cat raw fish. Raw fish contains an enzyme that destroys thiamine (vitamin B1), whose deficiency causes serious neurological problems in cats, even leading to convulsions and, in the worst-case scenario, coma.

• Don't provide vitamins and supplements to your cat if they already have a balanced diet. A vitamin overdose for cats and humans alike is dangerous just like a vitamin deficiency. If your cat has some health issues, then vitamins, supplements, and cat nutrition go hand in hand, with the vet's approval, of course.

• Don't give your cat your leftovers or too many treats between meals. Most human food is not nutritious to cats, and too many treats will surely lead to obesity. How many treats is optimal? Between 5% and 10% of their daily calory intake.

• Don't let the wet food sit in your cat's bowl for too long. After an hour, there will be too much bacteria, causing your cat digestive problems.

If your cat ever becomes overweight, it is partly due to an unbalanced diet and partly due to lack of activity. Your vet will study your cat's case and recommend the best course of action.

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Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN