IAMS PH
What You Should Know About Changing Your Cat’s Diet
What You Should Know About Changing Your Cat’s Diet

adp_description_block331
Wheatgrass & Wheat For Cats

  • Share

Wheatgrass is the fresh shoots of the wheat plant harvested before the grain sprouts. Although unusual, it is a common meal component for cats. Wheatgrass is rich in protein, carotene, and vitamins A, E, and C, making it an added source of nutrition for cats. Cats often nibble on wheatgrass and leafy greens to improve their digestion as fibres present in these plants aid in smoother bowel movement. However, it is important to ensure that your cat only feeds on organic and pesticide-free wheatgrass.

Is cat wheatgrass suitable for all cats?

Generally, all cats that are not allergic to wheatgrass can easily digest and benefit from its nutritional value of it. Wheatgrass for cats is a good source of vitamins, protein, and other essential nutrients. The fibre and selenium help in improving the cat’s gut health. However, you should identify if your kitty is allergic to wheatgrass before letting it nibble on wheatgrass. The following are some signs that will help you identify if your cat is allergic to wheatgrass:

  1. Excessive drooling
  2. Crusty papules
  3. Shedding
  4. Rashes

Even if your cat is not allergic to wheatgrass, you must limit its consumption to less than 10% of its total caloric consumption. Wheat for cats is best served every alternate day instead of daily.

The benefits of wheatgrass for cats

While everyone knows wheatgrass for cats is beneficial for digestion, there are various other benefits of wheatgrass as well. The following are some of the many benefits of wheatgrass for cats:

  1. Weight loss: Cats are inherently carnivorous animals who hunt their prey in the wild. However, domesticated cats have no need to hunt which has led to a drastic increase in their weight. Snacking on wheatgrass while changing the cat’s diet helps in managing their weight better.
  2. Better immunity: One of the many benefits of wheatgrass for cats lies in its nutritional value. The amount of minerals, vitamins, fibre, and protein present in wheatgrass positively impacts the cat’s immunity system.
  3. Oral health: Cat wheatgrass is a healthier snacking option that cats can nibble on without damaging their teeth. Regular snacks can lead to tooth decaying of the kitty’s tooth. Switching to wheat snacks and wheatgrass can improve their dental and oral health as it is organic and healthier.
  4. Antiaging: Chlorophyll present in wheatgrass is known for being a blood booster. This component present in the wheatgrass works as an antiaging component. Consuming wheatgrass helps increase potent blood and makes your cat look and feel younger.
  5. Healthy kidney: Cats rely more on wheat, wheatgrass, and a greener diet when dealing with digestive and gastrointestinal issues. If you notice your cat munching on wheatgrass for cats then they might be dealing with some gut, digestive, or kidney-related issues. Hence, providing snacks such as wheat for cats helps you identify if your kitty needs a veterinarian’s appointment at the earliest for diagnosing their gastrointestinal and kidney health.
  6. Improved vision: Cat wheatgrass contains vitamins A, E, and C. Vitamin A is closely associated with improving vision. Therefore, munching on cat wheatgrass can improve your cat’s vision.

Disadvantages of wheatgrass for cats

While there are many advantages of wheatgrass and wheat for cats, there are a few considerations and disadvantages as well. Some of the demerits of excessive munching on wheatgrass for cats are as follows:

  1. Cats are carnivorous animals. Snacking on wheatgrass and wheat more than usual can cause harm to their overall health.
  2. Consuming too much wheatgrass can lead to diarrhoea and vomiting. Please consult a veterinarian doctor at the earliest if you notice your kitty excessively vomiting or pooping.

Cat grass vs wheatgrass

Most cat parents have a hard time differentiating between cat grass and wheatgrass. If you are one of them, fret not. We will understand the difference between the two in this section. 

Cat food brands often market wheatgrass as cat grass. However, you must note that cat grass can be any grass, from barley and oats to wheatgrass and fescue. So, if you see a pack of cat food that says cat grass, check its label. Moreover, ensure that you opt for brands that use organic ingredients.

Now that you know of the benefits of wheatgrass for cats, you can start adding the regulated amount of wheatgrass to their diet. Please consult a veterinarian before deciding to serve wheat or wheatgrass to your feline friend.

Frequently asked questions

  1. Why is my cat obsessed with wheatgrass?
  2. If your cat has been munching on wheatgrass or grass more than usual, it might be facing some gastrointestinal issues. It is best to consult a veterinarian to ensure their physical well-being.

  3. Can cats eat whole wheat?
  4. Yes, cats can digest baked or cooked wheat products and wheat bran.

  5. How much wheatgrass can a cat eat?
  6. Total consumption of wheatgrass for cats should limit to 10% or lesser of their total caloric diet.

  7. Is wheatgrass good for indoor cats?
  8. Yes, wheatgrass improves indoor cats’ vision, immunity, and oral as well as gastrointestinal health, and helps keep their weight in check.

  9. Is wheatgrass and cat grass the same?
  10. Cat grass are cereal grasses that cats much on. Wheatgrass is a type of cat grass.

  • Kitten Basics: How to Keep Your Kitten in Good Health
    Kitten Basics: How to Keep Your Kitten in Good Health-mob
    adp_description_block5
    The Complete Guide to Raising a Healthy Kitten: How to Take Care of Your Feline Friend

    • Share

    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
Close modal