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How Sodium Is Used in Our Cat Foods

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How Sodium Is Used in Our Cat Foods

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What Is Sodium and Why Is It Important?

Sodium is an essential mineral for life. Found in the blood and in the fluid that surrounds cells, sodium maintains the cellular environment and prevents cells from swelling or dehydrating. Sodium is also important for maintaining proper nerve and muscle cell function.

 

What Are the Sources of Sodium in Cat Foods?

Meat, poultry, fish, and eggs are good sources of sodium. It also may be included in commercial cat foods in the form of table salt (sometimes listed on the ingredient panel as salt). Salt is an important palatant for animals, as well as for people.

 

How Much Sodium Do Cats Need?

The Association of American Feed Control Officials recommends that dry cat foods contain at least 0.2% sodium for maintenance and to support normal growth and development. These are the minimum recommended levels.
 

While high sodium intake may cause increased thirst and water consumption, the extra sodium is excreted in cat urine.
 

Therefore, the sodium level in commercial pet foods is not a cause for concern in healthy animals.

 

When Might Sodium Restriction Be Recommended?

A veterinarian may recommend decreasing a cat's sodium intake if the animal has some types of kidney, liver, or heart disease, in order to help decrease high blood pressure or the accumulation of excessive body fluid. Although older cats may be more likely to develop these diseases, healthy older cats do not require a low- or reduced-sodium diet.

 

Nutritional Application

The sodium level in our cat foods is appropriate for healthy cats. The sodium content in these foods is balanced in proper proportions with energy, other minerals, vitamins, fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.

  • Kitten Basics: How to Keep Your Kitten in Good Health
    Kitten Basics: How to Keep Your Kitten in Good Health-mob
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    The Complete Guide to Raising a Healthy Kitten: How to Take Care of Your Feline Friend

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    A newborn cat brings endless love and laughter to any household. However, as a new kitten parent, it is important to understand that caring for a kitten is not just about feeding and playing with them. Kittens have specific dietary needs, and it is important to provide them with high-quality kitten food that meets their nutritional requirements. Regular grooming, vaccination, and preventive care are essential in keeping your kitten healthy and free from diseases. This guide will give you all the information you need to raise a healthy kitten and ensure that it grows into a happy and healthy adult cat.

     

    Requirements for keeping your kitten in good health

    1. Keep your kitten clean: Regular grooming and bathing will help keep your kitten's coat shiny and free of parasites. Use a mild shampoo and do not forget to dry its coat thoroughly after a bath. This will help remove dirt and debris from the coat and prevent skin infections.
    2. Provide adequate nutrients: Kittens have specific dietary needs, and it's essential to provide them with high-quality kitten food that meets their nutritional requirements. Kitten food is formulated to give them the essential cat nutrients they need during their growth stage.
    3. Provide socialization: Kittens are social creatures, and it's important to provide them with plenty of opportunities to interact with other cats and humans. This will help them develop their social skills and prevent any behavioural issues in the future.
    4. Take preventive measures against diseases: Regular visits to the vet, vaccinations and preventative care will help keep your kitten healthy and free from diseases. By staying up to date with your kitty’s vaccinations, you can keep serious and fatal diseases at bay.

     

    Kitten development milestones

    Check out the below table to understand how a cat develops with time:

    Age

    Milestone

    5 to 6 months old

    Sexual maturity

    8 months old

    Full set of adult teeth

    9 months old

    Comparable digestion ability to adult

    12 months old (female) and 18 months old (male)

    Reach adult body weight

    Between 10 to 12 months of age

    Energy requirements go down to adult levels

    Want to know how old your cat is in human years? Check out the below table and find out:

    Life stageCat ageCat age in human years
    Kitten0 to 1 month old0 to 1 years old
    2 months old2 years old
    3 months old4 years old
    4 months old6 years old
    5 months old8 years old
    6 months old10 years old
    Junior7 months old12 years old
    12 months old15 years old
    18 months old21 years old
    2 years old24 years old
    Adult3 years old28 years old
    4 years old32 years old
    5 years old36 years old
    6 years old40 years old
    Mature7 years old44 years old
    8 years old48 years old
    9 years old52 years old
    10 years old56 years old
    Senior11 years old60 years old
    12 years old64 years old
    13 years old68 years old
    14 years old72 years old
    Super senior15 years old76 years old
    16 years old80 years old
    17 years old84 years old
    18 years old88 years old
    19 years old92 years old
    20 years old96 years old
    21 years old100 years old
    22 years old104 years old
    23 years old108 years old
    24 years old112 years old
    25 years old116 years old

    Checklist for your kitten's body conditions

     

    1. Ears: Check for any signs of infection, such as redness or discharge
    2. Eyes: Look for any signs of discharge or cloudiness
    3. Nose: Check for any signs of discharge or congestion
    4. Mouth: Look for any signs of inflammation or infection
    5. Skin and Coat: Check for any signs of parasites, such as fleas or ticks
    6. Nails: Check for any signs of overgrowth or cracking
    7. Attitude: Look for any signs of lethargy or depression
    8. Digestion: Watch for any signs of constipation or diarrhoea
    9. Thirst: Make sure your kitten is drinking enough water

    In conclusion, raising a healthy kitten requires a lot of care and attention, but with the right knowledge and commitment, you can ensure that your kitten grows into a happy and healthy adult cat. Always consult your veterinarian for any questions or concerns, and don't hesitate to seek advice or guidance. With the right care and love, your kitten will bring you years of joy and companionship.

    Kitten Basics: How to Keep Your Kitten in Good Health
    Kitten Basics: How to Keep Your Kitten in Good Health
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