Fat and its role in the diet of cats

In addition to being our beloved pets, house cats are fascinating creatures with specific dietary needs. Proper nutrition is crucial to their health and quality of life. Among the various nutrients that need to be included in a cat's diet, fat plays a particularly important role. In this article we will explain why this is so.

Fat is an essential nutrient that serves multiple functions in the body. In cats, fat serves not only as an energy store, but also as a source of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K) and essential fatty acids, which are important for the health of the skin, coat, eyes and organs.

Source of energy and support of the organism

Fat is a highly concentrated source of energy. Cats are naturally carnivores and have higher energy requirements from proteins and fats compared to herbivorous animals.Fats provide omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are important not only for providing energy but also for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat. These fatty acids have an anti-inflammatory effect and can reduce skin irritation.Adequate levels of fat in the diet support the functioning of important organs such as the liver, kidneys and heart. These organs need certain amounts of fat to work properly.

Finding the right balance

Despite the important role of fat in a cat's diet, finding the right balance is crucial. Too much fat in the diet can lead to obesity, which in turn can lead to health problems such as diabetes, joint problems and cardiovascular disease. On the other hand, too little fat can lead to deficiency symptoms and insufficient energy supply.

The exact amount of fat a cat needs depends on various factors such as age, activity level, health status and breed.

The right sources

When choosing cat food, it's important to look for high-quality sources of fat. Animal fats such as chicken fat or salmon oil are often easier to digest and provide the necessary fatty acids. But vegetable fats also contain essential fatty acids for cats. However, it is advisable to ensure that the diet has a balanced composition that also contains other important nutrients such as proteins, vitamins and minerals.