Is there a vegetarian diet for your cat? Advocates of vegetarianism strongly encourage pet owners to consider vegetarianism. This type of diet may have its good points, but there are also some things you should know. Remember that cats need protein to survive. The only protein source that contains the right amounts needed by cats is meat. There are issues you should consider before changing your cat´s diet to vegetarian.
- One of the most important factors to consider is that your cat cannot get enough taurine in his diet without meat. Several of his bodily functions depend on the presence of taurine. Cats can go permanently blind if they suffer prolonged periods without taurine. Taurine also helps prevent heart disease.
- Your cat also needs amino and arachidonic acids in his diet. Both of these acids can be obtained only by eating meat. While the lack of these acids in your cat's diet will not show up immediately, over a long period of time the effects can be profound. Some of the most immediately noticeable signs will show on your cat´s fur and skin. His coat may be dull and lack luster. His skin may also become dry and flaky.
- Cats cannot ingest vitamins A and B12 without retinol, which can be usually found in meats. Although retinol can be found in eggs and other dairy produce, the amounts present in these products are usually not enough to supply a cat's regular needs.
If you truly want to feed your cat with a vegetarian diet, there are a number of new products on the market that will help ensure that your cat´s diet is not lacking. Researchers have developed artificial sources of taurine and arachiconic acid to give to your cat. There is also a variety of other supplements available to help your cat in the transition to vegetarianism. You can find these in pet stores near you.
