Cat food

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Cat food is food manufactured for consumption by cats. Although cats are obligate carnivores, most commercial cat food contains both animal and plant material, supplemented with vitamins, minerals and other nutrients.

Contents 1 Commercial cat food 1.1 Dry food 1.2 Wet food 2 Homemade food 3 Vegetarian or vegan food 4 Nutrient profiles and functions 5 Diet and disease 5.1 Food allergy 5.2 Malnutrition 6 See also 7 References 8 External links

[edit] Commercial cat food

Most store-bought cat food comes in either dry form, also known as kibble, or wet canned form. Some manufacturers sell frozen raw diets and premix products to cater to owners who feed raw.

Major brand-name dry cat food manufacturers often use primarily grain-based ingredients like corn and rice with meat by-products or animal digest making up the meat ingredients. Some manufacturers offer 'premium', 'natural' or 'holistic' formulas that are by-product free and contains less or no grains. Grain-free dry diets still contain carbohydrates, from sources such as potato or tapioca as the starch in those ingredients are needed to allow the kibble to hold its shape. Cats have no metabolic need for carbohydrates as the feline system prefers to create glucose from protein.

[edit] Dry food

Dry food is generally made by extrusion cooking under high heat and pressure. It may then be sprayed with fat to increase palatability and other ingredients to complete their composition.

Pet owners often prefer dry cat food due to the convenience and price. Besides usually being significantly cheaper, dry cat food can also be left out for the cat to eat at will over the course of several days, whereas canned or raw cat food spoils or becomes unappetizing after several hours.

Dry food is recommended by some based on the idea that cats break apart dry foods with their teeth, which causes the food to scrape off dental calculus. The degree of benefit this provides has been disputed in recent years.

[edit] Wet food

Canned or wet food generally comes in common can sizes of 3 oz (85 gm), 5.5 oz, and 13 oz. They are also sold in foil pouch form by some manufacturers.

Owners and veterinarians who recommend a diet consisting largely or entirely of canned, homemade or raw cat food points to higher water content of such food and the increased total water consumption in comparison to a dry food diet as an important health benefit.^{[citation needed]} Wet food also generally contains significantly less grain and other carbohydrate material, although many are made with fish ingredients. Canned cat foods in pop-top containers may play a role in the development of hyperthyroidism in cats^[1].

In general, canned, homemade, or raw foods are thought to either help treat or noticeably reduce the likelihood of numerous health issues including urinary tract disorders^[2][3], diabetes, chronic renal failure^[4], constipation (sometimes leading to megacolon), and obesity.^{[citation needed]}

[edit] Homemade food

Many pet owners feed cats homemade diets. These diets generally consist of some form of cooked meat or raw meat, ground bone, pureed vegetables, taurine supplements, and other multivitamin supplements. Although cats are naturally resistant to many of the bacteria that raw meats contain, meat can sometimes also contain parasites and other harmful organisms and for this reason raw meat is sometimes frozen for periods of time before being used.^{[citation needed]} Some pet owners use human vitamin supplements, and others use vitamin supplements specifically engineered for cats. Veterinarians sometimes recommend including digestive enzyme supplements in a homemade diet. Some pet food manufacturers offer packaged versions of a raw food diet that closely resembles such homemade diets. These packaged versions are generally kept frozen, with individual portions being thawed in advance.

[edit] Vegetarian or vegan food

Vegetarian or vegan cat food has been available for many years, and is targeted primarily at vegan and vegetarian pet owners. Most veterinarians recommend against vegetarian diets for cats, as cats are obligate carnivores and require nutrients (including taurine, arachidonic acid, vitamin A, vitamin B12 and niacin) found in meat sources that cannot be obtained in sufficient amount in plant sources, although many can be synthesized. Studies have found that supplemented vegetarian cat food resulted in nutrients within the reference range.^[5]

Even when adequately supplemented, some claim vegetarian diets present other risks, such as urine acidity problems, which are less common in meat-based foods.^{[citation needed]} A few vegetarian cat food brands are labelled by their manufacturers as meeting AAFCO's Cat Food Nutrient Profile while other manufacturers recommend their products to be supplemented and not used as a standalone. Many pet owners have caused their cats to become malnourished when they do not follow the recommendation and mistakenly assume that the latter food is nutritionally complete.^{[citation needed]}

[edit] Nutrient profiles and functions

Cat foods labeled as "complete and balanced" must meet standards established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) either by meeting a nutrient profile or by passing a feeding trial. Cat Food Nutrient Profiles were established in 1992 and updated in 1995 by the AAFCO's Feline Nutrition Expert Subcommittee. The updated profiles replaced the previous recommendations set by the National Research Council.

Products that are formulated with ingredients to meet the established nutrient profile would include the following statement. "(Name of product) is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Cat Food Nutrient Profiles."

Products that are substantiated to be "complete and balanced" by feeding trials will have the statement "animal feeding tests using AAFCO procedures substantiate that (name of product) provides complete and balanced nutrition." The protocol requires that 6 out of 8 cats complete a 26 week feeding trial without showing clinical or pathological signs of nutritional deficiency or excess. The cats' general health is evaluated by a veterinarian before and after the test. Four blood values, hemoglobin, packed cell volume, serum alkaline phosphatase and serum albumin are measured after the trial and the average values of the test subjects must meet minimum levels. No animal is allowed to lose more than 15% of its starting weight.

There are two separate nutrient profiles - one for "growth and reproduction" and one for "adult maintenance". The nutritional adequacy statement would include info on which life stages the product is suitable. A product labeled as "for all life stages" must meet the more stringent nutrient profile for "growth and reproduction". Products labeled as "intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding" do not meet either profiles. Maximum levels of intake of some nutrients have been established because of concerns with overnutrition.

Vitamins are organic compounds that take part in a wide range of metabolic activities. Vitamin deficiencies can lead to widely ranging clinical abnormalities that reflect the diversity of their metabolic roles. Twelve minerals are known to be essential nutrients for cats. Calcium and phosphorus are crucial to strong bones and teeth. Cats need other minerals, such as magnesium, potassium, and sodium, for nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and cell signaling. Many minerals only present in minute amounts in the body, including selenium, copper, and molybdenum, act as helpers in a wide variety of enzymatic reactions.^[6]

The table below lists the AAFCO nutritional profiles for cat foods along with the roles of vitamins and minerals in cat nutrition according to the National Research Council.

Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) Cat Food Nutrient Profiles ^a [7]
with Role of Vitamins & Minerals ^[6]

Nutrient	Units (Dry Matter Basis)	Growth and Reproduction Minimum	Adult Maintenance Minimum	Maximum	Functions	Signs of Deficiency/Excess
Protein	%	30.0	26.0
Arginine	%	1.25	1.04
Histidine	%	0.31	0.31
Isoleucine	%	0.52	0.52
Leucine	%	1.25	1.25
Lysine	%	1.20	0.83
Methionine + cystine	%	1.10	1.10
Methionine	%	0.62	0.62	1.50
Phenylalanine + tyrosine	%	0.88	0.88
Phenylalanine	%	0.42	0.42
Threonine	%	0.73	0.73
Tryptophan	%	0.25	0.16
Valine	%	0.62	0.62
Fatb	%	9.0	9.0
Linoleic acid	%	0.5	0.5
Arachidonic acid	%	0.02	0.02
Minerals
Calcium	%	1.0	0.6		Formation of bones and teeth Blood coagulation Nerve impulse transmission Muscle contraction Cell signaling	Deficiency Nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism loss of bone mineral content, which can lead to collapse and curvature of lumbar vertebrae and pelvic bones bone pain, which can progress to pathological fractures Excess Depressed food intake Decreased growth Increased bone mineral density Increased need for magnesium
Phosphorus	%	0.8	0.5		Skeletal structure DNA and RNA structure Energy metabolism Locomotion Acid-base balance	Deficiency Hemolytic anemia Locomotor disturbances Metabolic acidosis
Potassium	%	0.6	0.6		Acid-base balance Nerve-impulse transmission Enzymatic reactions Transport functions	Deficiency Anorexia Retarded growth Neurological disorders, including ataxia and severe muscle weakness
Sodium	%	0.2	0.2		Acid-base balance Regulation of osmotic pressure Nerve impulse generation and transmission	Deficiency Anorexia Impaired growth Excessive thirst and drinking Excessive urination
Chlorine / Chloride	%	0.3	0.3		Acid-base balance Osmolarity of extracellular fluids	Deficiency Increased sodium concentration in renal fluid Excess potassium excretion
Magnesium c	%	0.08	0.04		Enzyme functions Muscle and nerve-cell membrane stability Hormone secretion and function Mineral structure of bones and teeth	Deficiency Poor growth Overextension of the carpal joints Muscle twitching Convulsions Excess Urinary tract stone formation in the presence of high pH
Iron d	mg/kg	80.0	80.0		Hemoglobin and myoglobin synthesis Energy metabolism	Deficiency Poor growth Pale mucous membranes Lethargy Weakness Diarrhea Excess Vomiting and diarrhea
Copper (extruded food) e	mg/kg	15.0	5.0		Connective tissue formation Iron metabolism Blood cell formation Melanin pigment formation Myelin formation Defense against oxidative damage	Deficiency Reduced weight gain Longer time to conceive
Copper (canned food) e	mg/kg	5.0	5.0
Manganese	mg/kg	7.5	7.5		Enzyme functions Bone development Neurological function	No studies of deficiency in cats
Zinc	mg/kg	75.0	75.0	2000.0	Enzyme reactions Cell replication Protein and carbohydrate metabolism Skin function Wound healing	Deficiency Skin lesions Growth retardation Testicular damage
Iodine	mg/kg	0.35	0.35		Thyroid hormone synthesis Cell differentiation Growth and development of puppies Regulation of metabolic rate	Deficiency Enlargement of thyroid glands Excess Excessive tearing, salivation, and nasal discharge Dandruff
Selenium	mg/kg	0.1	0.1		Defense against oxidative damage Immune response	No studies of deficiency in cats
Vitamins
Vitamin A	IU/kg	9000.0	5000.0	750000.0	Vision Growth Immune function Fetal development Cellular differentiation Transmembrane protein transfer	Deficiency Conjunctivitis Cataracts, retinal degeneration, and other eye problems Weight loss Muscle weakness Reproductive and developmental disorders Excess Skeletal lesions in kittens, particularly outgrowths of the cervical vertebrae Osteoporosis
Vitamin D	IU/kg	750.0	500.0	10000.0	Maintenance of mineral status Skeletal structure Muscle contraction Blood clotting Nerve conduction Cell signaling Phosphorous balance	Deficiency Rickets Abnormalities in skeletal development Progressive paralysis Ataxia Lack of grooming Reduction in body weight and food intake Excess Anorexia Vomiting Lethargy Calcification of soft tissues
Vitamin E f	IU/kg	30.0	30.0		Defense against oxidative damage via free radical scavenging	Deficiency Anorexia Depression Pain sensitivity in abdomen Fat tissue pathology
Vitamin K g	mg/kg	0.1	0.1		Activation of clotting factors, bone proteins, and other proteins	Deficiency Prolonged blood clotting times Hemorrhaging
Vitamin B1 / Thiamine h	mg/kg	5.0	5.0		Energy and carbohydrate metabolism Activation of ion channels in neural tissue	Deficiency Neurological impairments including altered reflexes and convulsive seizures Heart-rate disorders Pathological changes in the central nervous system Severe learning deficits
Riboflavin	mg/kg	4.0	4.0		Enzyme functions	Deficiency Cataracts Fatty livers Testicular atrophy
Pantothenic acid	mg/kg	5.0	5.0		Energy metabolism	Deficiency Stunted growth Fatty changes in liver Small bowel lesions
Niacin	mg/kg	60.0	60.0		Enzyme functions	Deficiency Anorexia Weight loss Elevated body temperature Fiery red tongue, with ulceration and congestion
Vitamin B6 / Pyridoxine	mg/kg	4.0	4.0		Glucose generation Red blood cell function Niacin synthesis Nervous system function Immune response Hormone regulation Gene activation	Deficiency Stunted growth Convulsive seizures Kidney lesions
Folic Acid	mg/kg	0.8	0.8		Amino acid and nucleotide metabolism Mitochondrial protein synthesis	Deficiency Decreased growth rate increased iron levels in blood
Biotin i	mg/kg	0.07	0.07
Vitamin B12	mg/kg	0.02	0.02		Enzyme functions	Deficiency Weight loss Vomiting Diarrhea Intestinal disorders
Cholinej	mg/kg	2400.0	2400.0
Taurine (extruded food)	%	0.10	0.10
Taurine (canned food)	%	0.20	0.20
Nutrient	Units (Dry Matter Basis)	Growth and Reproduction Minimum	Adult Maintenance Minimum	Maximum	Functions	Signs of Deficiency/Excess
NOTES Presumes an energy density of 4.0 kcal/g ME, based on the modified Atwater values of 3.5, 8.5, and 3.5 kcal/g for protein, fat, and carbohydrate (nitrogen-free extract, NFE), respectively. Rations greater than 4.5 kcal/g should be corrected for energy density; rations less than 4.0 kcal/g should not be corrected for energy. Although a true requirement for fat per se has not been established, the minimum level was based on recognition of fat as a source of essential fatty acids, as a carrier of fat-soluble vitamins, to enhance palatability, and to supply an adequate caloric density. If the mean urine pH of cats fed ad libitum is not below 6.4, the risk of struvite urolithiasis increases as the magnesium content of the diet increases. Because of very poor bioavailability, iron from carbonate or oxide sources that are added to the diet should not be considered as components in meeting the minimum nutrient level. Because of very poor bioavailability, copper from oxide sources that are added to the diet should not be considered as components in meeting the minimum nutrient level. Add 10 IU vitamin E above minimum level per gram of fish oil per kilogram of diet. Vitamin K does not need to be added unless diet contains greater than 25 percent fish on a dry matter basis. Because processing may destroy up to 90 percent of the thiamine in the diet, allowance in formulation should be made to ensure the minimum nutrient level is met after processing. Biotin does not need to be added unless diet contains antimicrobial or antivitamin compounds. Methionine may substitute choline as methyl donor at a rate of 3.75 parts for 1 part choline by weight when methionine exceeds 0.62 percent.

[edit] Diet and disease

[edit] Food allergy

Food allergy is a non-seasonal disease with skin and/or gastrointestinal disorders. The main complaint is Pruritus, which is usually resistant to treatment by steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The exact prevalence of food allergy in cats remains unknown. There is no breed, sex or age predilection, although some breeds are commonly affected. Before the onset of clinical signs, the animals have been fed the offending food components for at least two years, although some animals are less than a year old. In 20 to 30% of the cases, cats have concurrent allergic diseases (atopy / flea-allergic dermatitis). A reliable diagnosis can only be made with dietary elimination-challenge trials. Provocation testing is necessary for the identification of the causative food component(s). Therapy consists of avoiding the offending food component(s).^[8]

[edit] Malnutrition

Cats fed exclusively on raw, freshwater fish can develop a thiamine deficiency.Those fed exclusively on liver may develop vitamin A toxicity. Malnutrition has been seen in cats fed "natural", "organic", or "vegetarian" diets produced by owners with good intentions, and most published recipes have been only crudely balanced (by computer) using nutrient averages. Because the palatability, digestibility, and safety of these recipes have not been adequately or scientifically tested, it is difficult to characterize all of these homemade diets. Generally, most formulations contain excessive protein and phosphorus and are deficient in calcium, vitamin E, and microminerals such as copper, zinc, and potassium. Also, the energy density of these diets may be unbalanced relative to the other nutrients. Commonly used meat and carbohydrate ingredients contain more phosphorus than calcium. Homemade feline diets that are not actually deficient in fat or energy usually contain a vegetable oil that cats do not find palatable; therefore, less food is eaten causing a calorie deficiency. Rarely are homemade diets balanced for microminerals or vitamins. Owner neglect is also a frequent contributing factor in malnutrition.^[9]

[edit] See also

• Raw feeding
• Category:Pet food brands

[edit] References

1. ^ Edinboro, Charlotte H.; Scott-Moncrieff, Catharine; Janovitz, Evan; Thacker, Leon ; Glickman, Larry T. (3 2004). "Epidemiologic study of relationships between consumption of commercial canned food and risk of hyperthyroidism in cats". Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, JAVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association, AVMA) 224 (6): 879-886. DOI:10.2460/javma.2004.224.879. Retrieved on 2008-03-10. 
2. ^ Susan Little, DVM (2001). Non-obstructive Lower Urinary Tract Disease in the Cat. Winn Feline Foundation. Retrieved on March 8, 2007.
3. ^ Tony Buffington. Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disorders. Veterinary Information Network. Retrieved on March 10, 2007.
4. ^ Joseph W. Bartges, DVM, PhD, DACVIM (SA IM), DACVN. Nutrition and Chronic Renal Failure. Veterinary Information Network. Retrieved on March 10, 2007.
5. ^ Wakefield, Lorelei A.; Shofer, Frances S., Michel, Kathryn E. (7 2006). "Evaluation of cats fed vegetarian diets and attitudes of their caregivers". Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, JAVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association, AVMA) 229 (1): 70-73. DOI:10.2460/javma.229.1.70. Retrieved on 2006-10-16. 
6. ^ ^{a b} Subcommittee on Dog and Cat Nutrition (Committee on Animal Nutrition, Board on Agriculture and Natural Resources, Division on Earth and Life Studies) (2006). The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in the Diet for Cats. Nutrient Requirements of Cats and Dogs. ISBN 0309086280. National Research Council - National Academies. Retrieved on March 8, 2007.
7. ^
8. ^ Verlinden, A.; Hesta, M., Millet, S., Janssens, G.P. (4-5 2006). "Food Allergy in Dogs and Cats: A Review". Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition (Taylor & Francis) 46 (3): 259-273. DOI:10.1080/10408390591001117. Retrieved on 2006-10-27. 
9. ^ John E. Bauer, D.V.M., Ph.D., Dipl. A.C.V.N. (2005-1-1). Nutritional Requirements and Related Diseases (English). The Merck Veterinary Manual, 9th edition. ISBN 0-911910-50-6. Merck & Co., Inc.. Retrieved on October 27, 2006.

[edit] External links

• From the U.S. Food and Drug Administration - Center For Veterinary Medicine
  • Pet Foods
  • Information For Consumers - FDA's Regulation Of Pet Food
  • Information For Consumers - Information On Marketing A Pet Food Product
  • Information For Consumers - Interpreting Pet Food Labels
  • Information For Consumers - Interpreting Pet Food Labels - Special Use Foods
  • Vegetarian Diets For Pets?
• The Vegetarian Society UK on concerns relating to a vegetarian diet for cats
• From Max's House Feline Medical And Behavior Database
  • Feline Nutrition
  • Cat Food Nutrient Profiles
  • Dry food v/s canned (wet) food
  • Dispelling The Myth That Pets Are Used In Pet Foods
• From Animal Protection Institute
  • Get The Facts - What's Really In Pet Food