Cat Nutrition Complete Guide: What Science Says Cats Need to Eat
Key Takeaways: Essential Cat Nutrition Facts Requirement Level Why Critical Protein 30-40% minimum Obligate carnivore essential Taurine 1000+ mg/kg Heart/vision health—cats can’t synthesize Moisture 75%+ ideal Indoor cats don’t drink enough water Fat 9-15% Essential fatty acid absorption Carbohydrates Not essential Cats lack enzymes to process carbs efficiently Introduction: Why Cat Nutrition Differs from Dog Nutrition According to veterinary nutritionist Dr. Linda Thompson, DVM PhD at Cornell University: “Cats are obligate carnivores—their digestive system evolved exclusively to process animal tissue. This fundamental difference means feeding cats like dogs is nutritionally inadequate and potentially dangerous.” ...