Making sure you're feeding your cats the right food is important. What's best for one cat might not be for another and if there are signs and health changes in your cats that may signify an issue with their current food, your cats need veterinary attention. Here are some common signs that it's time to switch your cats' food:
Upset stomach
One of the most obvious signs a food is not agreeing with your cats is an upset stomach, followed by vomiting or diarrhoea. Cats can develop reactions to certain ingredients, so you might have to work with your vet to determine which ingredients are causing the upset stomach.
Dull, flaky coat
Dull, flaky coats are a sign that something is missing in your cats' diet and your cats are not getting the right nutrients. Consider switching to a diet containing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to make your cats' coat shiny and bright in no time.
Lethargy
If you notice any sort of lethargy, perhaps adding some antioxidants or other nutrition boosts will help your cats feel better. PetMD advises that a cat who is suddenly acting lethargic and weak should be evaluated by a vet before making dietary changes.
Unhealthy weight
More and more cats are becoming obese and this is often due to overfeeding. Whilst trying less of the right food is best, you might need to switch to something with fewer calories.
Foods that contain a higher amount of fiber will help your cats feel fuller. It's also important to figure out what your cats' ideal weight is and get the right number as you're helping them lose weight.
On the flip side, some cats have a hard time gaining weight and they might need more food and a food with higher calories to put on pounds.
Itchiness
Food allergies are not extremely common in cats, but if you notice your cats itching and scratching constantly, you might want to consider finding out if you cats have any food allergies. Consult your vet to rule out causes. Your vet can recommend a prescription diet if food allergies are the culprit.
Always remember that if your vet agrees that it's time to switch your cats' food, do so gradually.
Featured image by Peng Louis