Wednesday, June 4, 2008

By Jennifer McVey
If you are thinking about making homemade cat food, then it is important to follow a few simple rules. Not only can making cat food at home save you money on feeding your cat, but homemade cat food recipes can also provide better health, happiness, and longevity for your cat. If you decide on serving homemade pet food to your animal, then you should also consider adding certain supplements to provide your cat with the essential vitamins it needs.

There are many different types of cat food you can make. Some people like to make their own dry cat food at home because it saves them money. You should always talk to your veterinarian before changing your cat's diet or if you are considering homemade food. Find out what you can feed your cat. If your cat needs to be on a low protein diet then you need to know this too. A veterinarian will be able to tell you which foods are harmful for your cat and which foods are beneficial. Your cat also might need a daily vitamin. It's important to discuss all of these options with your veterinarian, to be sure you are providing the healthiest diet possible to your pets.

Your cat needs a protein source. When you make homemade cat food you should combine at least one source of protein. The proteins you can add to this recipe include ½ pound of minced boneless chicken thigh or breast, 6 ounces of ground or minced dark turnkey meat, ½ pound minced lean beef, or ½ pound ground or minced beef, chicken, or turkey heart. You should include a chopped hard boiled egg into your cat's diet at least three times a week. You can feed your cat a can of tuna but it should be packed in water and not in oil. Sardines and salmon with bones are also good for your cat but only once every two weeks. Keep in mind that feeding your cat canned fish may not be a good idea as it causes urinary tract problems. So use it sparingly.

If your veterinarian suggested a low-protein diet for your pet, then you should add one cup of cooked white rice with the meat to fill out the meal.

There are supplements you should give your cat for essential vitamins and minerals it needs like calcium, vegetables, salt, and more. You can add two teaspoons of olive oil or one teaspoon of flaxseed oil to the homemade cat food. You should include two tablespoons of pureed vegetables or vegetable baby food. Be cautious with spices however; for example adding onion powder to any cat food recipe is a no-no, as it could make your cat ill.

When planning to switch your cat from a commercial pet food diet to homemade cat food, talk to your veterinarian first. Regardless of the food you feed your pet, be sure you are providing him with all the essential ingredients he needs to live a long, healthy life.

Learn more about homemade cat food and healthy pet food recipes at http://www.saferpetfood.com

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