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The Importance of Fish Oil in Kitten Food
The Importance of Fish Oil in Kitten Food-mob

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The Importance of Fish Oil in Kitten Food

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We include fish oil in IAMS™ dry kitten food to help promote healthy skin and a healthy coat in your kitten. Learn more about fish oil and meal, what it does, how it can help your kitten and why it is an important component in all IAMS dry kitten foods.

 

What Is Fish Oil?

Fish oil is extracted from fish and is composed of special types of fats. Fish meal, which is used in IAMS dry kitten foods, is a good source of natural fish oil.

 

The Nutritional Benefits of Fish Oil

Fish oil from deep, cold-water fish contains omega-3 fatty acids. Fatty acids are a smaller component of fat, and omega-3 fatty acids are a type of fatty acid with important nutritional value. Fish oil has a unique fatty acid composition with high concentrations of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
 

The fatty acids in a kitten’s diet are incorporated into the body’s tissues and are critical for many body functions. For instance, animal cell membranes, including those in the skin, contain fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are responsible for the production of substances that promote healthy skin conditions, especially when balanced with omega-6 fatty acids (found in common ingredients such as chicken fat and corn oil) in a ratio between 5:1 and 10:1.
 

All IAMS dry kitten foods, such as IAMS™ ProActive Health™ Healthy Kitten, contain fish oil as a high-quality source of omega-3 fatty acids.

 

The Effects of Fish Oil on Your Kitten’s Skin and Coat

Studies conducted by nutritionists at The IAMS Company found significant improvements in skin and coat when cats1 were fed a diet that contained omega-3 fatty acids in a balanced ratio with omega-6 fatty acids versus the same diet without the balanced ratio.
 

Feeding a complete and balanced diet with a balanced ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids is proven to promote healthy skin and a shiny coat. When fed fish oil, cats showed:

  • Decreased shedding
  • A more uniform coat
  • Increased shine
  • Increased coat density
  • Richer color
  • A softer coat
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1 Data on file, The IAMS Company, 2000.

The Importance of Fish Oil in Kitten Food
  • 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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