Cat foods are specially formulated commercial diets that provide cats with the necessary nutrients for their health and well-being. There are many different types of cat foods available, including dry kibble, wet food, semi-moist food, and freeze-dried or dehydrated food.
Most cat foods are made with a combination of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. The protein in cat food is typically sourced from animal-based ingredients such as chicken, beef, or fish, and it is important for maintaining healthy muscles and supporting the immune system.
Here are 25 foods that many cats like with some explanations:
- Wet cat food: Most cats prefer wet food over dry kibble, as it provides more moisture and is closer to their natural diet of meat.
- Tuna: Tuna is a popular food among cats, but it should be given in moderation as it can be high in mercury.
- Cooked chicken: Many cats enjoy cooked chicken as it is high in protein and easy to digest.
- Cooked fish: Many cats enjoy cooked fish as it is high in protein and Omega-3 fatty acids.
- Salmon: Salmon is another popular food among cats, as it is high in protein and Omega-3 fatty acids, but it should be given in moderation as it can be high in fat.
- Shrimp: Some cats enjoy shrimp as a special treat, but it should be given in moderation as it can be high in cholesterol.
- Cooked turkey: Many cats enjoy cooked turkey as it is high in protein and low in fat.
- Cheese (in moderation): Some cats enjoy small amounts of cheese as a treat, but it should be given in moderation as it can be high in fat and lactose.
- Catnip (not a food, but many cats enjoy it): Catnip is a herb that is known to have a calming effect on cats and can be given as a special treat or used to encourage play.
- Yogurt (in moderation): Some cats enjoy plain, unsweetened yogurt as a treat, but it should be given in moderation as it can be high in lactose.
- Boiled eggs (in moderation): Many cats enjoy the taste of boiled eggs, but they should be given in moderation as they are high in protein.
- Liver (in moderation): Many cats enjoy the taste of liver, but it should be given in moderation as it can be high in fat.
- Sardines: Sardines are high in protein and Omega-3 fatty acids and can be given as a special treat or added to your cat’s diet.
- Green beans (cooked, in moderation): Some cats enjoy green beans as a treat, but they should be cooked and given in moderation.
- Broccoli (cooked, in moderation): Some cats enjoy small amounts of cooked broccoli as a treat, but it should be given in moderation as it can cause gas or stomach upset if consumed in large amounts.
- Carrots (cooked, in moderation): Some cats enjoy small amounts of cooked carrots as a treat, but they should be given in moderation.
- Apples (in moderation): Some cats enjoy small amounts of cooked or sliced apples as a treat, but they should be given in moderation and without the seeds.
- Pumpkin (cooked, plain, and unsweetened): Pumpkin is high in fiber and can help with digestion, but it should be given in moderation.
- Sweet potato (cooked, plain, and unsweetened): Sweet potato is high in fiber and can be a nutritious addition to your cat’s diet, but it should be given in moderation.
- Cantaloupe: Some cats enjoy the taste of cantaloupe, but it should be given in moderation and without the seeds.
- Watermelon: Some cats enjoy the taste of watermelon, but it should be given in moderation and without the seeds.
- Cucumber: Some cats enjoy the taste of cucumber, but it should be given in moderation and without the skin.
- Spinach (cooked, in moderation): Some cats enjoy small amounts of cooked spinach as a treat, but it should be given in moderation.