Whether you work from home a few days a month or five days a week, these five gadgets will make your life much easier when you clock in for the day.

Whether you work from home a few days a month or five days a week, these five gadgets will make your life much easier when you clock in for the day.

Observe just raised a $156 million Series C round as the company looks to offer support for Apache Iceberg by the end of the year.

Google confirmed it will sign the European Union's general purpose AI code of practice. Meta has already said it will not sign the voluntary framework.

A Florida virus researcher has an incredibly effective new research assistant: his cat, a black domestic shorthair named Pepper! Peppers penchant for hunting (and gifting) provided her owner with the perfect test subject for viruses in the local wildlife.Heres the incredible story of how Pepper the housecat-slash-virologist helped her owner, John Lednicky, Ph.D., discover not one but two new viruses. Pepper has even recently taken on a traineePepper Discovers Her First VirusPepper the cat enjoys hunting and bringing her owner dead rodents as gifts. But unlike most cat owners who have enjoyed (or not) this classic cat love language, Peppers owner is a virologist at the University of Floridas College of Public Health and Health Professions. So when life gave him a dead mouse, he decided to test it for viruses! Scientists call this an opportunistic study, as opposed to a planned study where they might intentionally seek out the mice to test.Lednicky was expecting to find a virus called deer mulepox because his team wanted to know if rodents could carry it. Instead, the tests showed a new type of jeilongvirus. Jeilongviruses are part of the family Paramyxoviridae, which includes better-known viruses that cause measles and mumps. Theyre common in bats, rodents, and cats.According to their paper, published in 2024, the new virus is called Gainesville rodent jeilong virus 1 (GRJV1). This is the first time it has been detected in the US, and based on their early research, it does pose a spillover risk, meaning it could jump between species.Pepper has the keen eyes of a dedicated scientistVirus Hunting: Round TwoBut wait! Pepper wasnt satisfied with just discovering one new virus. This year, she brought home a dead Everglades short-tailed shrew, which Lednicky dutifully tested.This time, the shrew showed a new strain of orthoreovirus, which the team named Gainesville shrew mammalian orthoreovirus type 3 strain UF-1. Ortheoviruses are found in the feces of mammals, reptiles, and birds, and may be connected to mild upper respiratory illness and gastroenteritis.Why Do Scientists Study These Viruses?Wild animals dont receive the kind of vaccination, deworming, and general healthcare that our pets do, so they can carry a range of diseases that can pose a public health risk, both to our pets and to us. Scientists are interested in the viruses (as well as bacteria and parasites) circulating in wildlife populations because they can jump between species, and some may even cause disease in humans. For example, rabies, bubonic plague, Ebola, and West Nile virus are all zoonotic, meaning they jump from animals to humans. Detecting new viruses early can help scientists and doctors respond quickly to potential outbreaks.Time for a TraineeJaha, the trainee virus hunterWhat does that mean for Pepper? Her job as a discoverer of viruses is pretty important. Since hunting, lounging, and discovering new viruses is quite a workload, Pepper has taken on a trainee. Her apprentice, named Jaha, is quickly learning the art of virus hunting. It helps to have such an expert teacher!We wish them well with their important work! Who knows what these working cats will discover nextSourceshttps://www.newsweek.com/cat-helps-owner-make-another-scientific-breakthrough-2097925https://www.newsweek.com/exotic-virus-discovered-florida-rodent-human-spillover-risk-1977349https://www.mdpi.com/2076-0817/13/10/831https://scitechdaily.com/a-cat-a-shrew-and-a-hidden-virus-the-wild-story-of-a-backyard-discovery/Images courtesy of John Lednicky

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, there are at least 60 million pet cats in the United States. With so many cats in our homes, you might expect that we know everything there is to know about them. Unfortunately, thats not the case, and due to their history, there are still plenty of cat myths that can have dangerous consequences. The sooner we can put those myths behind us, the better, which is why we addressed 15 common cat myths below that we need to debunk as quickly as possible.The 15 Myths About Cats That Need to Be Debunked1. Black Cats Are UnluckyImage Credit: Elisa Bertoldi, ShutterstockThis is a myth that came from European folklore, that linked black cats with witches and satan. However, there is zero truth to it and it is nothing more than a superstition. Black cats are no more lucky or less lucky than cats of any other color. Unfortunately, this myth has led to the mistreatment of many black cats over the years. Some shelters say that black cats are less likely to be adopted 1.2. Pregnant Women Cant Live With CatsThis is a well-intended rumor because of the potential risk of toxoplasmosis, a parasite that can be found in cat feces that can cause damage to a fetus in-utero. Although the risk is small, it is strongly advised that pregnant women avoid cleaning the litter box. However, if this isnt possible, then pregnant women are advised to wear disposable gloves and to wash their hands with soap and water immediately after cleaning the litter box. The box should also be changed daily, as Toxoplasma isnt infectious until 1 to 5 days after the feces is shed 2.3. Cats Always Land on Their FeetImage Credit: Nils Jacobi, ShutterstockCats are incredible climbers, and because of their insane ability to correct their body position while in the air, called the cat righting reflex, some people think that a cat always lands on their feet 3. The truth is that they can only land on their feet when they have enough time to correct their body position while falling.4. Cats Hate WaterWhile it is true that some cats dont like water, others have no problem with it. Moreover, many cats like running water and will even play with it or drink from it. All in all, it really depends on the individual, so get to know your pet, and dont wind up surprised if your cat actually enjoys their time in the bath.5. You Cant Train a CatImage Credit: Andriy Blokhin, ShutterstockWhile its certainly easier to train a dog than it is to train a cat, that doesnt mean training a cat is impossible. You can train them to stay off certain things, perform basic tricks, and other basic tasks. Youll find more success with positive reinforcement, and treats are pretty much always a must during training sessions.6. Cats Love MilkOk, so your cat might love the taste of milk, but that doesnt mean you should give it to them. Like most mammals, your cat loses the ability to process lactose as they grow up, meaning that milk is likely to upset their stomach.The majority of cats are lactose intolerant, so we recommend avoiding giving your cat a drink of milk, as water is always the best choice for them. If you want to spoil them, give them a little catnip or another one of their favorite treats instead, like plain, cooked chicken.7. Cats Only Purr When HappyImage Credit: Jaromir Chalabala, ShutterstockWhen you hear your cat purring, its only natural to think its because theyre happy and content, which is sometimes true, but its definitely not always the case. Cats will also purr because theyre nervous, in pain, or sick. Look at their overall body language when purring as well as any abnormal behaviors to determine if theyre actually content or if something else could be wrong.8. Cats Are NocturnalWhen people talk about cats, they often say theyre nocturnal. Thats not completely true, though. Cats are crepuscular, which simply means theyre more active at dusk and dawn. This is when wild cats hunt, and its why youll see them sleeping throughout much of the day.But cats will also sleep at night, which isnt what nocturnal creatures do! Cats simply sleep a lot (between 12 and 18 hours per day), and theyre just as likely to sleep in the middle of the night as they are to sleep in the middle of the day.9. Theyre LonersImage Credit: Olezzo, ShutterstockWhile feral cats typically hunt alone, they tend to live in groups of related animals. Cats can be very social creatures (with their humans) in the right circumstances, so theyre not living completely outside their norm when you bring a pet cat into your home. Some cats can tolerate or even enjoy living with another cat, but this depends on the cats. If they are related animals, they are more likely to enjoy one anothers company. If they are unrelated, they are likely to tolerate each other but on occasion, true bonding between unrelated cats does occur. Cats also actively enjoy hanging out with you as their owner, even if they dont follow you around as much as some dogs do.10. They Dont Need Frequent Vet TripsWhile many cat owners dont take their cats to the vet every year like they should, that doesnt mean they dont need those visits. Cats need just as many vet visits as dogs, and because cats are so adept at hiding their illnesses, they might be sick and you dont even realize it! Thats why it is usually best for cats to get a checkup at least once a year, but it should be every 6 months for seniors.If you need to speak with a vet but can't get to one, head over to PangoVet. It's an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the advice you need for your pet all at an affordable price! 11. Declawing Is Essentially the Same as Trimming Their NailsImage Credit: Gorodenkoff, ShutterstockThis is potentially one of the most unfortunate and dangerous myths about cats. Trimming cat nails doesnt cause any serious harm to your cat, even if they dont like you doing it. Meanwhile, declawing is a surgical procedure that would be the equivalent of amputating your fingers at the knuckles closest to the fingertips.Unless a vet recommends the procedure for a medical reason, you should never declaw your cat, as it leads to long-term pain that your cat will have to deal with for the rest of their life, as well as potentially long-term behavioral issues.12. Cats Can See in Complete DarknessTheres no doubt that cats have incredibly sharp vision and can see well in low-light situations. But low light doesnt mean no light. When things are completely dark, cats cant see.This is why outdoor cats typically hunt at dusk and dawn. Theres not as much light, which helps them stay hidden, but theres enough light that still allows them to see well.13. Indoor Cats Dont Need Vaccinesimage Credit: Africa Studio, ShutterstockSome people seem to think that since their cats are spending most or all of their time indoors they dont need vaccines. This simply isnt true. While it is true that indoor cats are less likely to develop various conditions, its always possible for them to catch something.Current vaccine recommendations for indoor cats say that all kittens should receive their primary vaccinations against the cat flu viruses (feline distemper complex). The cat flu viruses are hardy and can enter a house on inanimate objects such as someones shoe. Therefore, even if your cat never goes outside, they can still be at risk of one of these viruses.Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is a more complicated situation because it does require cat to cat contact to be transmitted. However, the current guidelines suggest that all kittens receive the FeLV vaccination after a negative blood test. This vaccination should be boosted one year later, at which point you can discuss with a veterinarian whether your cat needs this.14. They Can Live on a Vegan DietAs veganism and vegetarianism continue to grow in popularity, you might decide you dont want to consume animal products anymore, and thats perfectly fine. However, while humans dont need to consume animal products to survive, thats not the case with cats.Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they need to consume meat to survive. Commercial cat food comes with all the animal products they need, but if youre making their food for them, you need to ensure youre meeting all their dietary needs, including feeding them animal proteins. Hepper NomNom - Spill Proof Elevated Cat Bowl NO MESS - The 360 tray on this cat food and water bowl set has a raised design to catch and...WHISKER FRIENDLY - Shallow and wide metal containers with flat bottoms ensure your kitty can enjoy...CHEW-SAFE MATERIALS - Kittens and cats love chewing on silicone and soft rubber - but it's a choking... Check Price on Amazon Feeding your cat a high-quality diet is important for keeping them healthy and happy. But it goes beyond the food you choose; the dishes they use also matter. The Hepper NomNom Cat Bowl is our favorite for its unique, five-star design that protects from whisker fatigue and promotes good posture which also aids in better digestion. As an added bonus, its beautifully crafted and offers a modern take on the traditional cat bowl that fits seamlessly with all home stylings. Learn more about the NomNom by clicking here.At Catster, weve admired Hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!15. Cats Dont Love Their OwnersOne of the biggest debates is about whether dogs or cats are better pets. Sure, cats tend to be more independent, but that doesnt mean that cats dont love and adore their owners, as can be seen whenever they come running up to you after youve been gone for a few hours or when they curl up next to you or demand your pets and attention.ConclusionNow that you know a little more about some of the common cat myths out there, you can debunk them the next time you hear them. Knowledge is a powerful tool that you can use to keep your cat happy and healthy, and with a little more knowledge, you can be an even more responsible pet owner moving forward.See also:Pittsburgh Refrigerator Cat: The Myth ExplainedCan Cats Get Dogs Sick? Sourceshttps://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/cat/wellbeing-and-care/12-common-cat-myths-debunkedhttps://www.avma.org/resources-tools/reports-statistics/us-pet-ownership-statisticshttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7597961/https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/toxoplasmosis/gen_info/pregnant.htmlhttps://www.purina.co.uk/articles/cats/behaviour/common-questions/do-cats-land-on-their-feethttps://www.animalhumanesociety.org/resource/cat-keeping-you-awake-how-manage-night-activityhttps://www.merckvetmanual.com/cat-owners/behavior-of-cats/normal-social-behavior-in-catshttps://www.pawschicago.org/fileadmin/media/images/News_Resources/Cat_Resources/CatResource_Declawing_2019-web.pdfhttps://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-drink-milkhttps://www.cats.org.uk/cats-blog/why-does-my-cat-purrhttps://www.animalhumanesociety.org/resource/cat-keeping-you-awake-how-manage-night-activity#:~:text=Cats%20are%20crepuscular%2C%20which%20means,myth%20about%20our%20feline%20friends). Featured Image Credit: Nadezhda Zaitceva_shutterstock

In this articleImportant ConsiderationsCat Food RecipesIf youre worried about what goes into your cats food, theres one way to know for sure, and thats by making your own at home. This might sound like a straightforward solution, but getting the right balance of nutrients for your cat is not as easy as you might think, so its important to make sure youre using the right ingredients in the right proportions (which is why most pet owners tend to stick with store bought!).Important Homemade Cat Food ConsiderationsIf you are committed to the idea of homemade cat food, there are some important things to keep in mind: Cats are obligate carnivores they need to eat meat, and a lot of it. The majority of a cats diet should consist of animal protein in various forms. In the wild, cats will consume the meat, cartilage, eggs, feathers, skin, organs, and marrow from their prey, and just feeding them muscle meat will lead to nutrient imbalances and deficiencies. Cats need taurine this amino acid is essential to feline health and function, and they cannot generate it themselves. They obtain this enzyme from eating meat, organs, and entrails. They need to consume 250 to 500 mg of taurine per day. Cats need fat cats need to consume foods containing around 5-15% fat, depending on their lifestyle and activity level. Cats need little or no carbs in the wild, cats dont really consume carbohydrates, but our pets will often benefit from some fiber in their diet to help promote healthy bowel function and prevent constipation. Cats need calcium to mimic the calcium sources they would encounter in the wild, bone meal or crushed eggshells can be added to the food.Different cats will need different ingredients, depending on their age, breed, lifestyle, and health. If you are thinking of starting your cat on a homemade diet, its best to talk to a vet first to make sure you have everything covered.If you need to speak with a vet but can't get to one, head over to PangoVet. It's an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the advice you need for your pet all at an affordable price! The 5 Homemade Cat Food RecipesPreparing cat food with the ingredients you find in your kitchen is a simple way to ensure your cat receives a healthy and delicious diet. This homemade food for cats includes various types of meat, veggies, grains, and supplements to keep your cat nourished and satisfied! We will not be including any raw food recipes due to the risk of pathogen contamination from uncooked meat, but we do recommend gently cooking ingredients to retain nutrients.These recipes have been approved by a veterinarian because they include only cat-friendly ingredients, however, some of these recipes are not complete and balanced diets to feed your cat on a daily basis. These recipes are a great add-on to your cats diet. They are only meant to be fed on occasion and not as a regular staple diet. Please consult your veterinarian to help you decide what is the best diet for your cat.1. Our Favorite Easy Salmon Cat Food PrintSalmon Cat Food RecipeThis recipe is sure to be an excellent choice for most cat owners as it is free of gluten, dairy, sugar, nuts, and soy and is freezable. Plus, it's easy to double (or triple) to make enough to keep in your freezer!Prep Time 5 minutes minutesCook Time 5 minutes minutesTotal Time 10 minutes minutesServings 6 cupsEquipmentBlender or food processorStorage containerIngredients2 cups cooked salmon boneless2 tbsp steamed broccoli2 tbsp fish oil2 boiled eggsInstructionsCombine all of the ingredients in a bowl or food processor.Blend until the mixture is even.Divide your homemade cat food into individual portions.Store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer.NotesImage Credit: CA Creative, Unsplash2. Tuna Ball Cat Food RecipeImage Credit: LightField Studios, Shutterstock Check the RecipeIngredients 1 Small can of oil packed tuna fish 2 tbsp bread crumbs 1 egg, well beaten 1 tbsp of grated cheeseInstructions Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mash all ingredients together until a paste-like mixture forms. Shape into balls and place on greased baking tray. Bake for 20 minutes. Check frequently. When they are golden brown and firm, they are ready. Cool before serving.There is a name for cats who cannot get enough tunaTunaholics! This homemade cooked cat food recipe is one to keep on hand as your cat is sure to hang around the kitchen and meow at your feet to request more. These ingredients are likely ones you always keep in your pantry, which makes this a simple and easy go-to recipe.If your cat is on the heavier side of ideal, we recommend replacing the breadcrumbs with ground flaxseed and using tuna in spring water, not oil. Remember that this particular recipe is not a complete or balanced diet, so it is only meant to be served occasionally.3. Chicken & Vegetables Cat Food RecipeImage Credit: Catster.com Check the RecipeIngredients 1 cup broiled or baked chicken 1/4 cup mashed steamed broccoli 1/4 cup mashed steamed carrots Chicken broth, separatedInstructions Place ingredients in food processor with tablespoons of the chicken broth. Puree or crumble the ingredients until it resembles pate cat food. Gradually add broth until mixture is smooth but not soupy. Serve at room temperature.The cat food recipe includes the classic combination of chicken and vegetables that even your cat will enjoy. You can use an adorable baking mold or ice cube tray to portion and freeze any excess pate!4. Beef & Cottage Cheese Cat Food RecipeImage Credit: Catster.com Check the RecipeIngredients 2 cups cooked ground beef 1 cup cooked brown rice 14 cup alfalfa sprout, chopped fine 14 cup chopped carrot, cooked and mashed 12 cup cottage cheeseInstructions In a large skilled crumble ground beef. Cook over medium heat just until cooked through but not browned. Remove from heat. Drain and rinse under hot water to remove excess fat. Cool completely. Return to pan. Add the cooked brown rice, chopped alfalfa sprouts, carrots and cottage cheese. Package into individual meals. This recipe should remain good for three days in the refrigerator. Freeze any portions that wont be used before then.Finding a recipe as inclusive as this might be difficult. The main ingredient is beef, but its rounded out with rice, carrot, alfalfa, and cottage cheese! Weve halved the ingredient amounts used in the original recipe as it made quite a large quantity.5. Turkey & Rice Cat Food RecipeImage Credit: Alexander Prokopenko, Shutterstock Check the RecipeIngredients 1 1/2 cups water 2 teaspoons corn oil 1/2 cup brown rice, uncooked 1/2 pound raw turkey giblets, chopped into kitty-bite-size pieces 1/4 cup carrot, chopped fine 1/2 cup chopped spinachInstructions Combine oil, and water and bring to a boil. Pour rice in boiling water, lower heat, cover and cook for 10 minutes. Stir in turkey giblets, carrot, and spinach. Cover and cook on low heat for another 10 or 15 minutes.You can make the most of your turkey dinner using the giblets as a fancy feast base for your cats meal. These nutrient-rich organs are an excellent choice for your felines diet. Your cat will be happy to see the turkey giblets in their dish at dinner time! Hepper NomNom - Spill Proof Elevated Cat Bowl NO MESS - The 360 tray on this cat food and water bowl set has a raised design to catch and...WHISKER FRIENDLY - Shallow and wide metal containers with flat bottoms ensure your kitty can enjoy...CHEW-SAFE MATERIALS - Kittens and cats love chewing on silicone and soft rubber - but it's a choking... Check Price on Amazon Feeding your cat a high-quality diet is important for keeping them healthy and happy. But it goes beyond the food you choose; the dishes they use also matter. The Hepper NomNom Cat Bowl is our favorite for its unique, five-star design that protects from whisker fatigue and promotes good posture which also aids in better digestion. As an added bonus, its beautifully crafted and offers a modern take on the traditional cat bowl that fits seamlessly with all home stylings. Learn more about the NomNom by clicking here.At Catster, weve admired Hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!ConclusionTesting our homemade cat food recipes and finding what works with your pet might be a process when preparing your own cat food, but we hope you see how simple it can be with these great recipes for homemade cat food.Getting the right balance of nutrients can be tricky, and you should always speak to a vet before heading down the road of homemade cat food. However, these recipes can also be used as part of your cats regular diet, combined with a commercially prepared food that provides everything your cat needs to stay healthy and happy.If youre looking for all the benefits of freshly prepared meals without having to worry about whether or not youve got everything right, there are now lots of companies producing fresh-frozen meals for cats. They use human-grade ingredients, gently cooked and then frozen to be delivered to your door. All the benefits of homemade, without the guesswork.Related Reads:Cat Cake Recipes: 5 Vet-Approved Homemade TreatsHomemade Ice Cream Recipes (Vet-Approved)

We all want our cats to be as healthy as possible and part of that comes from choosing the correct food for our cats. For our cats to be as healthy as possible, we need to select the healthiest food for them.Of course, this is often easier said than done. It can be challenging to sort through the cat food and select the best option for our felines.Thats where we come in! Weve reviewed 9 of the healthiest cat foods this year to help you determine the best option for your feline. Well also examine what factors to consider when selecting one of these formulas.In this articleOur Top Picks at a GlanceOur ReviewsBuyers GuideOur Selection ProcessWhy Trust Catster?Final ThoughtsView 5More +Less -A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2025 Image Product Details Best Overall Fresh Other Bird Recipe by Smalls Fresh ingredients Very high in protein Substantial moisture content Click to Save 40% Use Code: Catster24 Budget Buy Purina ONE Tender Selects Blend with Real Salmon Inexpensive Omega fatty acids included Reputable brand CHECK PRICE Orijen Original Grain-Free Dry Cat Food High protein Calorically dense Includes fish for omega fatty acids CHECK PRICE Wellness CORE Tiny Tasters Kitten Chicken Cat Food Chicken as the first ingredient Added EPA and DHA Small pouches to prevent food waste CHECK PRICE Diamond Naturals Active Chicken Meal & Rice Formula High in protein Made in the USA For all life stages CHECK PRICE The 9 Healthiest Cat Foods1. Fresh Other Bird Recipe by Smalls Best Overall Save 40% - Click Here & Use Code Catster24Main Ingredients:Turkey Thigh, Turkey Liver, Green Beans, Peas, KaleProtein Content:16%Fat Content:5%Calories:1,415 kcal/kgWe recommend the Fresh Other Bird Recipe by Smalls as the best overall healthiest cat food. Smalls is a subscription-based meal service exclusively for felines, offering a range of fresh raw food options. With several recipes available, each with unique textures, you can select the best fit for your cat. In the case of the Fresh Other Bird recipe, you can choose between two textures: smooth and ground.To get started, you simply answer a few questions about your cat, which helps design personalized meal plans. However, you also have the flexibility to modify these plans according to your preferences. Once finalized, the meals are meticulously prepared and promptly delivered to your doorstep.Depending on the texture you opt for, your beloved kitty will receive a substantial amount of crude protein ranging from 16% to 23.7% per meal. Moreover, these nutritious meals are enriched with abundant vitamins and minerals sourced from fresh ingredients such as turkey thighs, green beans, peas, kale, and various supplements.Pet parents who have already tried Smalls Fresh Other Bird Recipe have been ecstatic about the positive results. Their feline friends have experienced weight loss, enhanced coat quality, and an undeniable love for this food. Its safe to say that this option is truly approved by our feline friends and their doting owners!Pros Fresh ingredients Very high in protein Substantial moisture contentCons Subscription required2. Purina ONE Tender Selects Blend with Real Salmon Budget Buy Check Price on Chewy Check Price on AmazonMain Ingredients:Salmon, Rice Flour, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken By-Product Meal, Beef Fat Naturally Preserved with Mixed-Tocopherols, Soybean MealProtein Content:34%Fat Content:15%Calories:3,734 kcal/kgWhile Purina ONE Tender Selects Blend with Real Salmon isnt necessarily the healthiest food, it provides optimal nutrition at a lower price. Therefore, it is the healthiest cat food for the money. Your buck stretches far with this recipe.Purina is a well-liked brand in the cat food industry. They have a surprisingly low number of recalls, so you can rest assured that this food is safe for your feline. Unlike many other cat food brands, they also have all their recipes formulated by veterinary professionals.The first ingredient in this recipe is fish, which provides plenty of omega-fatty acids to support your feline. Including omega-6 fatty acids in this formula nourishes your kittys coat, producing soft and healthy skin. Additionally, the presence of vitamins A and E helps to preserve the brightness of their eyes. The crunchy kibble of this cat food contains added calcium, which supports your cats dental health by strengthening her teeth.Designed for adult cats, this easily digestible cat food aids in maintaining a balanced microbiome in your furry friends digestive system. It contains natural prebiotic fiber, which promotes gut health and provides immune support to keep your cat in optimal condition.Pros Inexpensive Omega fatty acids included Formulated by veterinary professionals Reputable brandCons Includes some less-than-stellar ingredients, like rice flour3. Orijen Original Grain-Free Dry Cat Food Check Price on Chewy Check Price on AmazonMain Ingredients:Chicken, Turkey, Whole Mackerel, Turkey Giblets (Liver, Heart, Gizzard), Flounder, Chicken Liver, Whole Herring, Eggs, Dehydrated ChickenProtein Content:40%Fat Content:20%Calories:4,120 kcal/kgOne of the standout features of Orijen Original Grain-Free Dry Cat Food is its high protein content, with up to 90% of the ingredients being animal-based. This ensures your cat receives the nutrition necessary to thrive and maintain optimal health. The recipe includes premium protein sources such as fresh or raw chicken, turkey, whole mackerel, turkey giblets, and flounder.Orijen is committed to WholePrey ingredients, which means incorporating the most nourishing parts of prey animals. This approach mirrors the natural diet of cats in the wild, providing them with a complete and balanced range of nutrients.To add to its appeal, this cat food features a freeze-dried liver coating, delivering a burst of raw flavor that will undoubtedly entice your cat. This enhances the taste and appeals to your cats instinct to crave raw foods, making mealtime a highly enjoyable experience.However, this food is incredibly expensive. Its more calorie-dense than other recipes, but youll still spend a lot to feed your cat.Pros Organ meats and other nutritionally dense ingredients High protein Calorically dense Includes fish for omega fatty acidsCons Very expensive4. Wellness CORE Tiny Tasters Kitten Chicken Cat Food Best for Kittens Check Price on Chewy Check Price on AmazonMain Ingredients:Boneless Chicken, Chicken Broth, Water Sufficient for Processing, Potato Starch, Tapioca Starch, Duck, Eggs, Chicken LiverProtein Content:8%Fat Content:2%Calories:1,030 kcal/kgKittens need special nutrition as they are still growing. The Wellness CORE Tiny Tasters Kitten Chicken Cat Food is designed explicitly to support these kittens and help them reach their full potential.It is made with real chicken as its first ingredient and many other animal-based ingredients, like chicken liver. These provide the amino acids and protein your feline needs to thrive. Plus, the recipe is formulated with DHA and EPA for brain health.Each pack comes with very small, single-serving pouches. Because these are so small, it makes feeding kittens that much easier. You dont have to worry about throwing lots of food out.However, this recipe is expensive, which may be a downside for many cat owners.Pros Chicken as the first ingredient Added EPA and DHA Wet food with high moisture content Small pouches to prevent food wasteCons Expensive5. Diamond Naturals Active Chicken Meal & Rice Formula Check Price on Chewy Check Price on AmazonMain Ingredients:Chicken Meal, Ground White Rice, Chicken FatProtein Content:40%Fat Content:20%Calories:4,000 kcal/kgAnother good option is Diamond Naturals Active Chicken Meal & Rice Formula, especially for cats on the more active side. It is almost exclusively chicken and has a very simplified ingredient list, which may be helpful if your cat has allergies. You can rest assured that this formula gives your cat the meat-dense diet they deserve.Diamond Naturals is family-owned and operated. Their foods are made in the USA vwith quality ingredients, though they source them worldwide.While this food is designed mostly for adults, its also suitable for kittens and pregnant cats. Its nutritionally dense enough for these life stages, a rare find in todays cat food industry. Its high-protein, energy-dense formula works well for practically all felines.However, this food is harder to find than most. Weve seen many availability issues over the past few years, which is something to keep in mind. Plus, its also a bit pricier than other recipes.Pros High in chicken High in protein Made in the USA For all life stagesCons Availability issues Expensive6. Wellness CORE Signature Selects Poultry Selection Check Price on Chewy Check Price on AmazonMain Ingredients:Boneless Chicken, Chicken Broth, WaterProtein Content:8%Fat Content:2%Calories:842 kcal/kgIf your cat prefers wet food, we recommend Wellness CORE Signature Selects Poultry Selection. Wet food is generally better for cats due to its high moisture content (and this food has a very high moisture content). It helps your feline stay hydrated, which can prevent urinary tract problems.This formula is 100% grain-free and almost solely contains some kind of meat. Plus, since this is a variety pack, your feline may find mealtime more interesting. Each recipe is shreds of real meat combined with a sauce of some kind. Only natural ingredients are used, meaning no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives exist.These formulas are very high in moisture, which can cause a problem for some cats. Certain felines may just not be able to stomach all of the sauce. Plus, this is a variety pack. So, if your cat doesnt like a particular flavor, you may be wasting a few cans.Pros Range of recipes to keep things interesting Only natural ingredients Almost completely made of meat High moisture contentCons Moisture content can be too high for some Many different flavors7. Stella & Chewys Chick Chick Chicken Dinner Morsels Cat Food Check Price on Chewy Check Price on AmazonMain Ingredients:Chicken, Chicken Liver, Chicken GizzardProtein Content:45%Fat Content:25%Calories:4,360 kcal/kgInterested in feeding your cat raw food but want the convenience of dry food? Then you may consider Stella & Chewys Chick Chick Chicken Dinner Morsels Cat Food. Its made with almost exclusively chicken that is freeze-dried. You can serve it as-is for a more kibble-like meal or rehydrate it with water.This food is very high in protein and fat. Its one of the highest protein-containing foods on this list. It is also very calorically dense, so your cat will need to eat less. However, this is also one of the most expensive foods out there. There arent any scientific articles backing the proposed benefits of raw food, either.While this food is one of the best freeze-dried options on the market, its only recommended for those who want to try raw food (and have the money to do so).Pros Made with almost exclusively chicken Can be fed several ways for convenience Very high in proteinCons Expensive May be low value8. Orijen Six Fish Dry Cat Food Check Price on Chewy Check Price on AmazonMain Ingredients:Whole Mackerel, Whole Herring, Flounder, Acadian Redfish, Monkfish, Whole Hake, Mackerel Meal, Herring Meal, Blue Whiting Meal, Pollock OilProtein Content:40%Fat Content:20%Calories:4,060 kcal/kgWe also like the Orijen Six Fish Dry Cat Foodrecipe. This formula is very similar to the Orijen recipe we already mentioned. However, it contains almost exclusively fish, a good option for most cats. Its very high in fish oil, which contains omega fatty acids that may improve your cats joint health. Its also a good decision for felines with allergies since fish is a rarer allergy.This cat food contains 90% animal ingredients, including bone and organs. It features many nutritionally-dense organs our cats would naturally eat in the wild. Plus, this formula is also coated in freeze-dried liver for added flavor. Therefore, it may be a good option for picky cats.However, some felines cannot handle this much fish. It is extremely fish-dense, which makes it high in fat.Pros Almost completely made of fish Lots of fish oil Freeze-dried coated for added flavorCons Expensive It may be too much fish for some cats to stomach9. Fussie Cat Market Fresh Quail & Duck Meal Check Price on Chewy Check Price on AmazonMain Ingredients:Quail, Duck Meal, Peas, Pea Flour, Sunflower Oil, Duck Fat, DuckProtein Content:33%Fat Content:15%Calories:3,604 kcal/kgFussie Cat Market Fresh Quail & Duck Meal is one of the few recipes that uses lots of duck and quail. Typically, recipes that say theyre made with these ingredients use chicken to bulk their food. However, that isnt the case with this brand.Therefore, it would be a great option for cats with allergies. If your feline cannot eat chicken or fish, this formula would probably be okay for them to consume. For the most part, this formula is duck and quail. However, it also includes peas and pea flour, which are high in protein. However, these dont necessarily have all the amino acids your cat needs to thrive. Keep that in mind when looking at the protein content of this food.Compared to other premium cat foods, this formula is low in protein. However, that isnt necessarily a problem for all cats, as some may do best on less protein.Pros Contains mostly duck and quail Includes sunflower oil for added omega fatty acids No artificial ingredientsCons Low in protein Contains peasBuyers Guide: Selecting the Healthiest Cat FoodsThere are several things to consider when purchasing healthy cat food for your feline. However, how healthy a cat food is comes down to a few things.ProteinCats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require meat for optimal health. Essential nutrients like taurine and arachidonic acid are exclusively found in meat sources. Throughout their evolutionary history, cats have been predators with a diet predominantly composed of protein, followed by moderate fat and minimal carbohydrates.When choosing cat food, prioritize those with named meat sources listed first in the ingredients. Look for meats like beef, chicken, or salmon, indicating higher quality. Be cautious of foods that contain generic terms like meat by-products or poultry, as they often include less desirable animal parts mixed in the food.CarbohydratesToo many carbohydrates can be detrimental. They can cause your cat to gain weight, and they often arent very nutritionally dense. However, cats need carbohydrates just like they need protein. They use them for energy, and one of the primary purposes of food is to give our cats energy!Look for grains like rice, oats, and potatoes. These often work well for many cats. However, some cats are sensitive to gluten, so you may need to select a gluten-free food for these felines.Image Credit by: Patrick Foto, ShutterstockLife StageLike humans, cats have distinct nutritional requirements at different stages of life. Therefore, its best to choose food specifically designed for each stage.Heres a breakdown of what cats need at each stage: Kittens require food that supports their growth and should contain single-source proteins like beef, lamb, turkey, chicken, or tuna. Their diet should be high in protein, fat, and folic acid. Adult cats are generally less active than playful kittens and require less protein and fat in their diet. This is also the ideal time to consider portion control or timed feeding to prevent excessive weight gain. Senior cats (typically 7 years or older) benefit from foods that are lower in protein and fat to avoid weight gain. These foods should also provide ample vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to support their aging immune system. Senior formulas are designed to reduce kidney stress, helping older cats avoid kidney disease.Always choose a food that fits your cats life stage. Hepper NomNom - Spill Proof Elevated Cat Bowl NO MESS - The 360 tray on this cat food and water bowl set has a raised design to catch and...WHISKER FRIENDLY - Shallow and wide metal containers with flat bottoms ensure your kitty can enjoy...CHEW-SAFE MATERIALS - Kittens and cats love chewing on silicone and soft rubber - but it's a choking... Check Price on Amazon Feeding your cat a high-quality diet is important for keeping them healthy and happy. But it goes beyond the food you choose; the dishes they use also matter. The Hepper NomNom Cat Bowl is our favorite for its unique, five-star design that protects from whisker fatigue and promotes good posture which also aids in better digestion. As an added bonus, its beautifully crafted and offers a modern take on the traditional cat bowl that fits seamlessly with all home stylings. Learn more about the NomNom by clicking here.At Catster, weve admired Hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!Brand Matters!You want to choose a renowned brand for your cats food. The brand is a lot more than just a name since that company is the one making your cats food. You want a company that you can trust, which means choosing one with few recalls (and a fast response to those recalls).When choosing a brand for your cat, the company must be transparent about ingredient sourcing and manufacturing processes. This information should be readily available on the product page, company website, and through customer reviews. If needed, consider reaching out to the company directly for clarification.Conducting this research may initially seem overwhelming, but consider the alternative: dealing with a cat who constantly vomits on your new carpet and spending significant time and money at the vet to diagnose the issue. Surprisingly, the cause could be their food. Consulting this matter with a veterinarian nutritionist can save you a lot of time.If you need to speak with a vet but can't get to one, head over to PangoVet. It's an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the advice you need for your pet all at an affordable price! Our Cat Food Selection ProcessCatsters dedicated team of writers and editors collaborate with expert veterinarians, considering a wide range of factors when selecting the best for cats. These parameters include customer reviews, brand reputation, veterinary experience, and in some cases, hands-on testing. Of course, our cats have a say in the process, too! We strive to select and review the highest-quality products available, to help you choose the best possible product and make the most informed decision for your and your cats needs.Why Trust Catster?Catster has been a trusted online brand since 2001, so we know a thing or two about cat food Were a team of cat-loving writers, editors, and veterinarians dedicated to helping you make the most informed decision for your feline. We deeply believe in providing the best information for cat owners to help their cats live their best life possible. We look at reviews from the most trusted sources available, and this, combined with our veterinary teams experience and expertise, helps us gather the best options on the market. Our team is invested in the welfare and health of cats around the world, and believe that expert knowledge is one of the best ways to achieve this.ConclusionThere are many different healthy cat foods out there. Most cat foods on the market follow the guidelines set by the AAFCO, which makes them nutritionally complete.However, out of all the foods available, we recommend Fresh Other Bird Recipe by Smalls. This food is fresh and made almost exclusively with turkey. Its a great choice for nearly any feline.You may also want to consider Purina ONE Tender Selects Blend with Real Salmon, which is less expensive than many cat foods on the market. However, its also nutritionally complete and comes from a well-trusted brand.See Also:Best Grain-Free Cat FoodsCrave Cat Food ReviewFeatured Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock

In this articleHow Many Calories Do Cats Need?A Cats MetabolismFoods for Weight MaintenanceView 2More +Less -All cats have individual dietary needs based on their breed, size, age, and health conditions. As notoriously picky eaters, finding the right food for them is only half the battle. Feeding your cats the appropriate amount is a crucial aspect of their diet. Obesity in cats comes with a long list of severe health problems, so keeping their weight in check with appropriate food portions is key to keeping them at a healthy weight long term. In general, an average indoor catshould have about 20 calories of food for every pound of body weight.How Many Calories Do Cats Need?While every feline is different, there are a few general guidelines for an indoor catscalorie consumption. Veterinarians use calculations that are based on your cats resting energy requirements (RER) and factor in additional needs such as life stage and activity levels.A helpful tool for calculating the amount of food your cat needs are calorie calculators. Our calorie calculator below can help you determine how much food your cat needs based on things like their current body score condition, age, weight and activity level.The exact amount of calories an individual animal needs to maintain a healthy weight is variable and influenced by many factors including genetics, age, breed, and activity level. This tool is meant to be used only as a guideline for healthy individuals and does not substitute veterinary adviceYou are free to use this image but we do require you to link back to Catster.com for creditMaintaining WeightIf youre trying to maintain their weight, the average cat should have about 20 calories of food for every pound of body weight. If you have an outdoor cat, they need about 35 calories for every pound of body weight. Indoor/outdoor cats usually land somewhere between the 20 and 35 calorie mark.With that said, an indoor cat should eat roughly 200 calories per day if they weigh 10 pounds. If they weighed 15 pounds, they would consume about 300 calories per day.Weight LossSome of us have cats that are overweight. Thankfully, their food consumption is in our control. For overweight cats, youll want to feed them for 2 pounds less, or about 40 fewer calories, every day. You will have to readjust this number every time your cat loses a pound until they hit a healthy weight. From there, you can give them maintenance calories.Getting a cat to lose weight is notoriously difficult and it is also something that needs to be carefully monitored. Many veterinary clinics have weight loss programs to help support and advise you through this journey.If you need to speak with a vet but can't get to one, head over to PangoVet. It's an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the advice you need for your pet all at an affordable price! A Cats MetabolismWhile these calories are a good guideline for cats, there are some major factors that also need to be considered. Not every cat can eat 20 calories per pound of body weight simply because their metabolism could either be faster or slower than an average cat. If you put your cat on a diet and they arent losing weight, then you may need to lower the number of calories they consume even more, but first, you will need to rule out the possibility of underlying health-related problems. Always consult with a vet before changing your cats diet plan.Image Credit: Svetlana Rey, ShutterstockFoods That Cats Should Eat for Weight MaintenanceLike with the foods we eat, there are some cat foods that are of better quality for their bodies than others. The trick is to find a food that your cat enjoys eating but makes them feel full at the same time.MeatCats are carnivores, and nearly all of their food should come from meat-based protein. Cats do not need grains, fruits, and veggies to live healthy lives. Sure, they can add some nutritional value to their diets, but they are not necessary for survival.FatsIf youve ever tried eating a low-fat diet for a long period of time, then you understand how it feels to be hungry all the time. The same is true for cats. They have a requirement for moderate fat levels in their diets, with 9% on a dry matter basis as a minimum standard. With that said, there is such a thing as too much fat. Excess fat in the diet that is not burned off as energy will lead to weight gain.FiberFiber is essential for promoting efficient digestion and utilizing food calories. It also keeps your cats from feeling hungry as often. However, it is sometimes hard to find meat-based cat foods with high levels of fiber. The safest way to introduce fiber into your cats diet is with a higher fiber food recommended by a vet. You can also try supplements but monitor for digestive upset. Hepper NomNom - Spill Proof Elevated Cat Bowl NO MESS - The 360 tray on this cat food and water bowl set has a raised design to catch and...WHISKER FRIENDLY - Shallow and wide metal containers with flat bottoms ensure your kitty can enjoy...CHEW-SAFE MATERIALS - Kittens and cats love chewing on silicone and soft rubber - but it's a choking... Check Price on Amazon Feeding your cat a high-quality diet is important for keeping them healthy and happy. But it goes beyond the food you choose; the dishes they use also matter. The Hepper NomNom Cat Bowl is our favorite for its unique, five-star design that protects from whisker fatigue and promotes good posture which also aids in better digestion. As an added bonus, its beautifully crafted and offers a modern take on the traditional cat bowl that fits seamlessly with all home stylings. Learn more about the NomNom by clicking here.At Catster, weve admired Hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!ConclusionDetermining how many calories your feline friend needs is simple once youve wrapped your head around the equation. Of course, you should always check with your vet to ensure they are eating the appropriate amount of food before making any changes to their diet. They will be able to give you the best guidance for appropriately feeding your beloved pet and keeping them healthy for years to come. Sourceshttps://www.allfelinehospital.com/getting-your-cat-to-lose-weight.pml