What Do American Shorthair Cats Eat? Best Diet Guide
The Importance of a Balanced Diet for Your American Shorthair
When it comes to feeding your American Shorthair, there’s more to it than just filling a bowl with any old food.
The key to maintaining a healthy cat is a balanced diet—so, let’s break it down.
What Do American Shorthair Cats Eat? Best Diet Guide I’ve always been told by my veterinarian that it’s best to feed high-quality kibble as the base of their diet.
Dry kibble is great for dental health, but you shouldn’t neglect wet food.
The combination of both can help prevent obesity, a common issue in cats that are overfed or don’t get enough exercise.
I’ve seen many owners struggle with this, especially when their cats are sensitive to certain foods.
It’s wise to blend the two foods so things are not dull and unwholesome for your cat.
Be sure to select a reputable brand, however. Read labels always to prevent poor fillers from creeping into the food.
Establishing a Feeding Schedule and Ensuring Proper Hydration
Establishing a feeding schedule is crucial as well—it prevents gluttony.
I’ve noticed that my cat gets a bit picky with dry food, so adding a small amount of wet food gives her a burst of flavor.
Don’t forget about clean water! Cats often prefer to drink from a filtered fountain rather than a traditional bowl.
It really comes down to what your cat prefers, but keeping them hydrated is the most important thing.
I learned this the hard way when my cat got dehydrated.
It took some time to get her healthy again, but now we stick to a routine—fresh water is always available, just three feet from her food dish. Treats are fine, but they shouldn’t replace regular meals. Moderation is key.
Choosing the Right Food: Kittens, Adults, and the Life Cycle
Feeding your American Shorthair cat isn’t as simple as reaching for whatever bag of kibble is closest—it’s about knowing the specific nutritional guidelines for their life cycle.
Kitten food, for instance, is designed to fuel development and growth, whereas adult maintenance food is designed to aid in energy levels and general well-being.
Whether you are purchasing a high-quality commercial diet or are looking at raw pet food choices such as Vital Essentials Raw Pet Food, it’s important to make sure the food is designed to provide nutrients supported by organizations such as the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
I once switched to a grain-free formula for my own cat, and the improvement in his coat and energy was amazing! But there’s more to it—every cat is different, and a veterinarian can guide you in choosing the right food.
Special Diet Considerations for Cats with Food Allergies and Sensitivities
Here’s where it gets really interesting—special diet considerations are very important, particularly in cats with food allergies or sensitivities.
A natural diet featuring real meat like poultry or fish and steering clear of fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives can be a real lifesaver for some cats.
This helps to avoid digestive issues and encourages a healthy gut microflora, improving overall digestion.
Also, raw diet options have been shown to reduce stool volume and maintain firm stool, which means fewer trips to the litter box!
I tried switching to a gluten-free diet once, and the health improvements were clear—my cat’s energy, appetite, and even longevity seemed to improve.
But I do warn against rushing into a raw pet food diet without research—the food must be tailored to your pet’s individual nutritional requirements at each phase of its life.
Whether it’s kitten chow or the more specialized requirements of older cats, these are important details!
The Importance of Reading Pet Food Labels and Understanding Portion Sizes
Feeding your American Shorthair involves more than just picking any food off the shelf.
The first step is to always check the pet food label—yes, this part matters a lot!
It’s easy to just grab a bag of food and go, but if you take the time to read those feeding directions, you’ll be amazed at how much more informed your decision will be.
For example, the number of calories each portion provides directly impacts your cat’s health.
I remember when I first adopted an American Shorthair, I struggled with figuring out how much food to give based on the age, lifestyle, and ideal body weight of my cat.
It wasn’t just about feeding her, it was about making sure she stayed fit and healthy.
As a general rule, young cats with a lot of energy need more calories, while older, less active cats may require fewer.
Trial and Error: Finding the Right Food and Portion Size for Your Cat
One thing I learned the hard way is that every individual cat is different.
What works for one may not work for another.
I spoke to a veterinarian who explained that finding the right amount of food takes a little trial and error.
I made adjustments to the food portions based on my cat’s activity levels and even her weight fluctuations.
You might have to change things up depending on how your cat reacts to different foods, so don’t get discouraged if things don’t seem perfect right away.
Feeding directions are a great starting point, but always remember that your cat’s health is best guided by a combination of veterinarian advice and a keen understanding of her habits!
Age-Specific Nutritional Needs: Feeding Kittens, Adults, and Senior Cats
Caring for your American Shorthair means understanding its changing nutritional needs.
Kittens need a balanced diet to grow properly. Since they grow quickly, they need extra protein to build muscle and stay healthy.
Kitten food often includes protein from chicken, turkey, fish, and beef—key for their muscles and immune system.
It’s not just about feeding them; it’s about feeding them right.
I noticed when I switched to kitten-specific food, my cat’s coat got shinier, and she had more energy!
As your cat becomes an adult, its nutritional needs change to maintain muscle and overall health.
At this stage, a complete and balanced diet is essential.
Look for food with joint-healthy supplements like omega-3 fatty acids and fish oil, which are great for their joints and skin.
This becomes even more important for senior cats to help prevent age-related issues and keep their joints working smoothly.
My vet once advised me to switch to senior cat food for my older Shorthair, which had a special formula designed for joint and immune support.
The dietary structure of older food typically includes fewer calories, more fiber, and more joint-friendly ingredients like glucosamine.
Every cat is different, though, so always consult with your vet to tailor the feeding plan that best suits your cat’s needs!
You can also read my post: Black American Shorthair – The Ultimate Guide to Everything
