What Should I Feed My Cat? 

Understanding Feline Nutrition and How Diet Impacts Lifelong Health

By Dr. Dina Bascharon, DVM Oak Park Animal Hospital - Oak Park, IL

Serving our community since 1972. Where compassion, prevention, and Pawsitive Longevity® come together.

Choosing the right food for your cat is one of the most important decisions you can make for their long-term health. Cats have unique nutritional needs that differ significantly from dogs and people. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are designed to thrive on nutrients found primarily in animal tissue. Feeding an inappropriate diet can contribute to chronic disease and shortened lifespan.

Why Feline Nutrition Is Unique

Cats require high-quality animal protein to maintain muscle mass, immune function, and organ health. They also require specific nutrients such as taurine, arachidonic acid, vitamin A, and certain B vitamins, which must come from animal sources. Carbohydrates play a limited role in feline nutrition. Diets excessively high in carbohydrates may contribute to obesity, diabetes, and urinary tract disease. 

Life Stage and Medical Considerations

Kittens require diets formulated for growth and development, which typically contain more proteins, minerals, and vitamins. Adult cats benefit from balanced nutrition that supports weight management and urinary health. Senior cats may need diets that support kidney health, joints, and cognition.Cats with medical conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, gastrointestinal disease, or food sensitivities often require prescription diets. Be sure to discuss with your vet on which diet is best suited for your cat. 

Reading Cat Food Labels

Marketing terms such as "natural," "premium," or "grain-free" are not regulated. This means there are no guidelines companies must follow to label these products. Instead, focus on:

• AAFCO nutritional adequacy statements 
• Appropriate calorie content 
• Quality animal protein sources 
• Digestibility and moisture content

These will guide you in selecting an appropriate diet for your cat. 

Nutrition and Pawsitive Longevity®

From a Pawsitive Longevity® perspective, nutrition is preventive medicine. Proper nutrition reduces inflammation, supports organ function, and helps preserve vitality across every life stage.

Our Approach at Oak Park Animal Hospital

Dr. Dina Bascharon works closely with cat parents to evaluate diet history, body condition, and weight trends. She also takes lifestyle, environment, medical history, and risk factors into consideration. This individualized approach allows us to make nutrition recommendations that truly support lifelong health.

Oak Park Animal Hospital 708-383-5542

From our family to yours since 1972... personal care you can trust.