Regardless of their lifestyle, cats require a well-balanced diet based on high-quality protein, as well as essential minerals, vitamins and fatty acids. However, lifestyle does impact a cat’s specific nutritional needs, as indoor and outdoor cats require additional support for various functions. What should the diet of an indoor cat and an outdoor cat be like? Find out more.
The impact of lifestyle on the nutritional needs of a cat
Cats are natural carnivores, so each cat’s diet should be rich in high-quality, highly digestible protein. Cat food must also contain essential vitamins and minerals, as well as fatty acids that provide energy, take care of the immune system and the nervous system, and support the condition of the fur and skin.
However, in the case of indoor and outdoor cats, the diet must support specific body functions because they are susceptible to different types of health problems. In addition, indoor cats lead a less active lifestyle. Below we provide information about the specific needs of a cat’s lifestyle.
Nutrition for an outdoor cat
Outdoor cats lead a more active lifestyle than indoor cats – they freely walk around large areas, exploring “their” territory. As active cats, they require a diet rich in protein and fats, which will provide the cat with energy for expeditions. Protein is also the basic building block of the body, so a diet rich in protein also supports muscles. As cats move through various terrains and overcome various obstacles, their bones and joints require additional support.
Moreover, they come into contact with other animals – dogs, cats and birds, as well as rodents, which they can hunt. They can also snack outside the home without the owner knowing about it. For this reason, their diet should in particular support the immune system – vitamins such as B vitamins and omega fatty acids will take care of the cat’s immunity. Fatty acids also take care of the fur and skin, which constitute the body’s natural protective barrier.
It is worth remembering that the lifestyle of outdoor cats brings many advantages, but is also associated with numerous dangers – both from other animals and parasites, so you should ensure that your cat is regularly dewormed and protected against ticks. Also remember that cats are vulnerable to accidents and injuries, so it is worth microchipping your pet when going out.
Food for outdoor cats
Outdoor cats require a diet designed for active cats, which is rich in protein and fats. In particular, we recommend BRIT Care Grain Free Activity Support Adult food for active cats, which is rich in high-quality protein from chicken and turkey – it contains as much as 34% protein. These meats are an excellent source of omega fatty acids and B vitamins, which support the body’s immunity, coat and skin. It also contains the addition of chondroitin and glucosamine, which supports the joints of an active cat.
If your outdoor cat is a large breed, it is worth choosing BRIT Care Grain-Free Adult Power&Vitality Large Cats. This is high-quality gluten-free food made from nutritious duck and chicken that will provide large cats with energy and take care of the vitality of their body. The food takes care of your cat’s eyesight, supports the condition of its fur and skin, supports joints and stimulates the body’s immunity. It is rich in protein and contains a well-balanced dose of fats, while protecting against excess weight.
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Feeding an indoor cat
Indoor cats lead a less active lifestyle than outdoor cats. They move around in a much smaller space, and their time is spent mainly resting, playing and taking care of themselves. Therefore, an indoor cat should be provided with an appropriate amount of exercise and play so that its health and well-being do not suffer due to a lazy lifestyle. The diet of indoor cats should therefore be rich in easily digestible proteins and low in calories to prevent excess weight. This is particularly important in the case of spayed or neutered cats.
Moreover, the diet should support the cat’s coat, aid digestion and defecation, and also have anti-decaying properties. This is because indoor cats can shed even all year round, as the change of seasons does not affect them as much as outdoor cats. Frequent grooming, a lazy lifestyle and shedding can lead to clotting.
Food for indoor cats
Many food manufacturers offer formulas designed specifically for indoor cats. We especially recommend BRIT Care Grain-Free Adult Indoor Anti-Stress food, which contains easily digestible chicken meat, rich in protein, vitamins and minerals. The food has a stress-relieving effect, cares for the cat’s kidneys and urinary system, and supports the condition of its skin and fur. It also provides support for the digestive system. Moreover, the food also ensures the proper condition of the cat’s mouth and teeth.
For sterilized cats that require support in maintaining an appropriate weight, we recommend BRIT Care Grain-Free Sterilized Weight Control. Thanks to the appropriate dose of fiber, the food supports the digestive system and increases the feeling of satiety. The low-calorie recipe prevents excessive weight gain. The recipe also contains ingredients that support the cat’s urinary tract, which is especially important in the case of pets after sterilization. The food is made from a delicious combination of duck and turkey.
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