Thursday, February 28, 2013

8 Out of 10 Pet Owners Didn't Recognize These Signs of Illness - Will You?

**By Dr. Becker**

> Many veterinarians rely entirely on the owners of senior pets to report signs of age-related illness. (I'm not one of them, because my approach is proactive rather than reactive, and my focus is on preventing illness -- not waiting until it occurs.) Unfortunately, many pet parents don't recognize the signs, or consider changes in their dog's or cat's health normal if the symptoms seem related to the animal's advancing age.
>
> In fact, in a study published recently in the _Journal of Small Animal Practice_[1](http://healthypets.mercola.com/rss/healthypet-rss.aspx#_edn1), it was revealed that the vast majority (80 percent) of owners of dogs older than nine years of age were not aware of at least one significant health problem with their pet.

## Study Suggests Most Older Dogs Have Unaddressed Health Problems

> The study involved veterinary consultations with the owners of 45 senior dogs. The vet sessions consisted of taking a history of the dog's health and lifestyle, a full physical examination, and urinalysis.
>
> The history taking was standardized so that the owners were asked the same questions about changes they had noticed as their pet aged. A prompted history taking was also completed using open questions, followed by appropriate closed questions. The physical exam evaluated all organ systems, and the urinalysis included a dipstick urine test and specific gravity.
>
> The 45 dogs in the study were discovered to have an average of about eight health issues each, including ear infections, respiratory distress, arthritis, abdominal masses, heart murmurs or arrhythmias, and lung cancer. According to study authors, the dogs' owners frequently did not recognize or report serious signs of disease, however, they did report symptoms like increased sleeping, hearing or vision loss, stiffness or lameness, "slowing down," increased cloudiness of the lens of the eye, increased thirst and urination, pain, signs of osteoarthritis, and dental disease.
>
> As a result of the screenings, 29 further diagnostic procedures were ordered including 10 dental procedures, seven medical treatments, two surgeries, and sadly, the euthanasia of two dogs.

## How to Conquer Your Fear of Vet Exams for Your Aging Pet

> I think it's normal for owners of beloved older pets to grow more fearful of vet appointments as their dog, cat, or other animal companion ages. The more years on the pet, the more likely a serious health problem will be diagnosed during a veterinary exam. But I think this view is much more prevalent in clients of traditional vet practices, because the conventional veterinary community is trained to wait for full-blown illness before intervening in an animal's health.
>
> In my proactive wellness-oriented practice and others like it, long-term clients are less fearful when they bring their elderly companions in for checkups because we (the pet parent and I) have worked as a team throughout the animal's life to address potential health issues as soon as they arise.
>
> My most vibrant, longest-lived patients are those whose owners not only provide a healthy lifestyle for their pets, but also bring them to my clinic for regular wellness exams - especially as they get up in years or if we are managing current medical issues. The frequency and regularity of their visits allows us to get to work on a developing disorder early in its progression, when there is the best chance for an excellent outcome.
>
> We also review the animal's nutritional, supplement and medication protocols at each visit and make adjustments as necessary. This allows us to, for example, know when the time is right to begin specific supplementation to prevent or slow the progress of age-related changes like loss of vision, osteoarthritis, and mental decline.
>
> No matter your companion animal's age, I strongly encourage you to find a wellness-oriented [holistic](http://www.ahvma.org/) or integrative veterinarian in your area (or at least within driving distance) - a DVM who practices a proactive approach to caring for your pet's health. The two of you, as a team, can then set about taking steps to keep your furry friend healthy, rather than simply waiting in fear for a dreadful diagnosis.

## Tips for Helping Your Pet Age Well

> No matter your pet's age, certainly the foundation for good health and vitality is a nutritionally balanced, species-appropriate diet. The [food](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/05/05/surprising-findings-from-tufts-study-of-37-senior-dog-foods.aspx) your dog eats either builds up or tears down his health. His body needs an ideal energy source to promote the processes of metabolism, growth and healing. That perfect fuel is a healthy variety of fresh, living food suitable for your carnivorous canine. And pets' nutritional needs change as they age.
>
> ** To help with failing eyesight:**
>
> * Bilberries are a rich source of flavonoids with antioxidant properties. When taken in capsule form combined with Vitamin E, they protect the eye tissue of humans and halt lens clouding in 97 percent of people with early-stage cataracts. This herb is safe for dogs, so it's certainly something that might help and won't harm your pet.
> * Leave a radio, television or other background noise on when your pet will be home alone. This will give her a reference point, and should also help mute noises that may startle her.
> * Avoid moving furniture around, keep household 'travel lanes' clear, and minimize clutter. The easier it is for your pet to navigate through the house, the less likely it is she'll become disoriented or injure herself. Cover up slippery floors so your pet will feel secure walking on them.
> * Use natural scents like aromatherapy products (I use lavender oil) to 'mark' special spots in the house, for example your pet's water dish.
> * Don't move your pet's feeding station around, and if your companion is a cat, don't move the litter box from place to place. A familiar environment and daily routine are especially important to elderly pets with diminished faculties.
>
> ** For arthritic pets:**
>
> * Maintaining your dog at a [healthy weight](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/12/07/weight-loss-tips-for-pets.aspx) and insuring he's [physically active](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/08/26/how-to-stroke-arthritis-right-out-of-your-pet.aspx) throughout his life will help control arthritis and degenerative joint disease in his later years.
> * Cover slick floors (most tile, linoleum, hard wood) with non-skid rugs or runners to prevent dogs from slipping.
> * Chiropractic adjustments, [massage](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/11/18/benefits-of-medical-massage-for-pets.aspx), stretching, [aquatic therapy](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/02/03/benefits-of-physical-therapy-for-dogs.aspx), laser therapy and [acupuncture](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/12/21/acupuncture-for-treating-pet-dogs-and-cats.aspx) are therapies that can make a world of difference in the mobility of your pet as he ages. Talk with your holistic/integrative vet about supplements you can add to your dog's diet to help maintain healthy tendons, ligaments, joints and cartilage. Some of these might include:
> * Glucosamine sulfate with MSM and eggshell membrane
> * Omega-3 fats (krill oil)
> * Ubiquinol
> * Supergreen foods like spirulina and astaxanthin
> * Natural anti-inflammatory formulas (herbs, proteolytic enzymes and nutraceuticals)
> * Adequan injections, which can stimulate joint fluid very rapidly in pets with arthritis
>
> ** To keep your dog [mentally sharp](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/08/19/does-your-dog-show-any-of-these-5-signs-of-mental-decline.aspx):**
>
> * Enrich your dog's environment with [regular exercise](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2009/10/17/Four-Simple-Reasons-Your-Pet-Develops-Joint-Problems-and-Arthritis.aspx), mental stimulation and socialization with other pets and people. In a two-year [study](http://www.nih.gov/news/pr/jan2005/nia-18.htm) of senior beagles, researchers found dogs that engaged in regular physical exercise, playtime with other pups and stimulating toys, did better on cognitive tests and learning new tasks than their less active counterparts.
> * Give your dog a SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine) supplement. SAMe is a safe and very effective way to stall or improve mental decline. In one recent study, dogs with age-related cognitive decline given a SAMe supplement for eight weeks showed a 50 percent reduction in mental impairment. Consult your pet's veterinarian for the right dose size for your dog.
> * Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) have been shown to improve brain energy metabolism and decrease the amyloid protein buildup that results in brain lesions in older dogs. Coconut oil is a rich source of MCTs. I recommend 1/4 teaspoon for every 10 pounds of body weight twice daily for basic MCT support.
> * Other supplements to consider are resveratrol (Japanese Knotweed), which protects against free radical damage and beta-amyloid deposits, ginkgo biloba, and phosphatidylserine - a nutritional supplement that can inhibit age-related cognitive deficits. Again, I recommend you consult a holistic veterinarian for dosing guidance.****



Sources:

* [Clinician's Brief, December 2012](http://mercola.fileburst.com/PDF/HealthyPets/12.12CliniciansBrief.pdf)


**Related Articles:**


![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [Three Things Every Owner of an Older Dog Should Be Doing](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/10/26/aging-dog-care.aspx)

![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [How to Help Your Senior Dog Stay Young at Heart](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/06/23/how-to-help-your-senior-dog-stay-young-at-heart.aspx)

![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [Telltale Signs of Aging - How to Keep Your Pet More Youthful...](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/07/07/hearing-and-vision-loss-on-pets.aspx)


[**&nbsp_place_holder;Comments&nbsp_place_holder;(1)](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/03/01/age-related-illness.aspx?ShowAllComments=True#comments)**

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/03/01/age-related-illness.aspx

10 Tips for Choosing Your Child’s First Pet

**Related Articles:**



![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [A Dozen Great Reasons to Adopt Your Next Pet](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/06/02/a-dozen-great-reasons-to-adopt-your-next-pet.aspx)

![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [Tips for Dog Owners: Preventing Dog Bites](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/08/18/preventing-dog-bites.aspx)

![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [Helping Your Child Grieve the Loss of a Pet](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/03/02/helping-your-child-grieve-the-loss-of-a-pet.aspx)

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/03/01/choosing-pets.aspx

8 Out of 10 Pet Owners Didn't Recognize These Signs of Illness - Will You?

**By Dr. Becker**

> Many veterinarians rely entirely on the owners of senior pets to report signs of age-related illness. (I'm not one of them, because my approach is proactive rather than reactive, and my focus is on preventing illness -- not waiting until it occurs.) Unfortunately, many pet parents don't recognize the signs, or consider changes in their dog's or cat's health normal if the symptoms seem related to the animal's advancing age.
>
> In fact, in a study published recently in the _Journal of Small Animal Practice_[1](http://healthypets.mercola.com/rss/healthypet-rss.aspx#_edn1), it was revealed that the vast majority (80 percent) of owners of dogs older than nine years of age were not aware of at least one significant health problem with their pet.

## Study Suggests Most Older Dogs Have Unaddressed Health Problems

> The study involved veterinary consultations with the owners of 45 senior dogs. The vet sessions consisted of taking a history of the dog's health and lifestyle, a full physical examination, and urinalysis.
>
> The history taking was standardized so that the owners were asked the same questions about changes they had noticed as their pet aged. A prompted history taking was also completed using open questions, followed by appropriate closed questions. The physical exam evaluated all organ systems, and the urinalysis included a dipstick urine test and specific gravity.
>
> The 45 dogs in the study were discovered to have an average of about eight health issues each, including ear infections, respiratory distress, arthritis, abdominal masses, heart murmurs or arrhythmias, and lung cancer. According to study authors, the dogs' owners frequently did not recognize or report serious signs of disease, however, they did report symptoms like increased sleeping, hearing or vision loss, stiffness or lameness, "slowing down," increased cloudiness of the lens of the eye, increased thirst and urination, pain, signs of osteoarthritis, and dental disease.
>
> As a result of the screenings, 29 further diagnostic procedures were ordered including 10 dental procedures, seven medical treatments, two surgeries, and sadly, the euthanasia of two dogs.

## How to Conquer Your Fear of Vet Exams for Your Aging Pet

> I think it's normal for owners of beloved older pets to grow more fearful of vet appointments as their dog, cat, or other animal companion ages. The more years on the pet, the more likely a serious health problem will be diagnosed during a veterinary exam. But I think this view is much more prevalent in clients of traditional vet practices, because the conventional veterinary community is trained to wait for full-blown illness before intervening in an animal's health.
>
> In my proactive wellness-oriented practice and others like it, long-term clients are less fearful when they bring their elderly companions in for checkups because we (the pet parent and I) have worked as a team throughout the animal's life to address potential health issues as soon as they arise.
>
> My most vibrant, longest-lived patients are those whose owners not only provide a healthy lifestyle for their pets, but also bring them to my clinic for regular wellness exams - especially as they get up in years or if we are managing current medical issues. The frequency and regularity of their visits allows us to get to work on a developing disorder early in its progression, when there is the best chance for an excellent outcome.
>
> We also review the animal's nutritional, supplement and medication protocols at each visit and make adjustments as necessary. This allows us to, for example, know when the time is right to begin specific supplementation to prevent or slow the progress of age-related changes like loss of vision, osteoarthritis, and mental decline.
>
> No matter your companion animal's age, I strongly encourage you to find a wellness-oriented [holistic](http://www.ahvma.org/) or integrative veterinarian in your area (or at least within driving distance) - a DVM who practices a proactive approach to caring for your pet's health. The two of you, as a team, can then set about taking steps to keep your furry friend healthy, rather than simply waiting in fear for a dreadful diagnosis.

## Tips for Helping Your Pet Age Well

> No matter your pet's age, certainly the foundation for good health and vitality is a nutritionally balanced, species-appropriate diet. The [food](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/05/05/surprising-findings-from-tufts-study-of-37-senior-dog-foods.aspx) your dog eats either builds up or tears down his health. His body needs an ideal energy source to promote the processes of metabolism, growth and healing. That perfect fuel is a healthy variety of fresh, living food suitable for your carnivorous canine. And pets' nutritional needs change as they age.
>
> ** To help with failing eyesight:**
>
> * Bilberries are a rich source of flavonoids with antioxidant properties. When taken in capsule form combined with Vitamin E, they protect the eye tissue of humans and halt lens clouding in 97 percent of people with early-stage cataracts. This herb is safe for dogs, so it's certainly something that might help and won't harm your pet.
> * Leave a radio, television or other background noise on when your pet will be home alone. This will give her a reference point, and should also help mute noises that may startle her.
> * Avoid moving furniture around, keep household 'travel lanes' clear, and minimize clutter. The easier it is for your pet to navigate through the house, the less likely it is she'll become disoriented or injure herself. Cover up slippery floors so your pet will feel secure walking on them.
> * Use natural scents like aromatherapy products (I use lavender oil) to 'mark' special spots in the house, for example your pet's water dish.
> * Don't move your pet's feeding station around, and if your companion is a cat, don't move the litter box from place to place. A familiar environment and daily routine are especially important to elderly pets with diminished faculties.
>
> ** For arthritic pets:**
>
> * Maintaining your dog at a [healthy weight](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/12/07/weight-loss-tips-for-pets.aspx) and insuring he's [physically active](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/08/26/how-to-stroke-arthritis-right-out-of-your-pet.aspx) throughout his life will help control arthritis and degenerative joint disease in his later years.
> * Cover slick floors (most tile, linoleum, hard wood) with non-skid rugs or runners to prevent dogs from slipping.
> * Chiropractic adjustments, [massage](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/11/18/benefits-of-medical-massage-for-pets.aspx), stretching, [aquatic therapy](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/02/03/benefits-of-physical-therapy-for-dogs.aspx), laser therapy and [acupuncture](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/12/21/acupuncture-for-treating-pet-dogs-and-cats.aspx) are therapies that can make a world of difference in the mobility of your pet as he ages. Talk with your holistic/integrative vet about supplements you can add to your dog's diet to help maintain healthy tendons, ligaments, joints and cartilage. Some of these might include:
> * Glucosamine sulfate with MSM and eggshell membrane
> * Omega-3 fats (krill oil)
> * Ubiquinol
> * Supergreen foods like spirulina and astaxanthin
> * Natural anti-inflammatory formulas (herbs, proteolytic enzymes and nutraceuticals)
> * Adequan injections, which can stimulate joint fluid very rapidly in pets with arthritis
>
> ** To keep your dog [mentally sharp](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/08/19/does-your-dog-show-any-of-these-5-signs-of-mental-decline.aspx):**
>
> * Enrich your dog's environment with [regular exercise](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2009/10/17/Four-Simple-Reasons-Your-Pet-Develops-Joint-Problems-and-Arthritis.aspx), mental stimulation and socialization with other pets and people. In a two-year [study](http://www.nih.gov/news/pr/jan2005/nia-18.htm) of senior beagles, researchers found dogs that engaged in regular physical exercise, playtime with other pups and stimulating toys, did better on cognitive tests and learning new tasks than their less active counterparts.
> * Give your dog a SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine) supplement. SAMe is a safe and very effective way to stall or improve mental decline. In one recent study, dogs with age-related cognitive decline given a SAMe supplement for eight weeks showed a 50 percent reduction in mental impairment. Consult your pet's veterinarian for the right dose size for your dog.
> * Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) have been shown to improve brain energy metabolism and decrease the amyloid protein buildup that results in brain lesions in older dogs. Coconut oil is a rich source of MCTs. I recommend 1/4 teaspoon for every 10 pounds of body weight twice daily for basic MCT support.
> * Other supplements to consider are resveratrol (Japanese Knotweed), which protects against free radical damage and beta-amyloid deposits, ginkgo biloba, and phosphatidylserine - a nutritional supplement that can inhibit age-related cognitive deficits. Again, I recommend you consult a holistic veterinarian for dosing guidance.****



Sources:

* [Clinician's Brief, December 2012](http://mercola.fileburst.com/PDF/HealthyPets/12.12CliniciansBrief.pdf)


**Related Articles:**


![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [Three Things Every Owner of an Older Dog Should Be Doing](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/10/26/aging-dog-care.aspx)

![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [How to Help Your Senior Dog Stay Young at Heart](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/06/23/how-to-help-your-senior-dog-stay-young-at-heart.aspx)

![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [Telltale Signs of Aging - How to Keep Your Pet More Youthful...](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/07/07/hearing-and-vision-loss-on-pets.aspx)

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/03/01/age-related-illness.aspx

Chimps Use “Power Tools”

Tim "Tool Time" Taylor narrates this cute video by DisneyMovies.

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/03/01/chimps-use-power-tools.aspx

Baby Elephant Playing in the Mud Redefines Cute

Baby elephant Navann here is just having the time of his life. No cares, no worries, he's just a little kid and wants to play in some mud.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2013/02/baby-elephant-playing-in-the-mud-redefines-cute?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-f274d7c1c15e89d3db1c3590510b0349

A cat sits on a wall in London, Thursday, Feb. 28, 2013.

The London zoo is taking stock of an animal you don't often find behind bars, launching what it says is the first interactive map of the British capital's domestic cats.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2013/02/a-cat-sits-on-a-wall-in-london-thursday-feb-28-2013?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-980dd2678a1dfb1f1e6a63693f7d2421

Equine herpes virus found in 7 horses in Fla.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - Hundreds of horses at a major show jumping event in Florida have been quarantined as a precaution after state agricultural officials reported an outbreak of a high contagious equine herpes virus.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2013/02/equine-herpes-virus-found-in-7-horses-in-fla?fromrss=1

Rabbits slaughtered in North Fort Myers backyard

A [North Fort Myers](http://www.topix.com/city/north-fort-myers-fl) woman says someone went into the backyard of her Breeze Drive home and slaughtered her pet [rabbits](http://www.topix.com/pets/rabbits).

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2013/02/rabbits-slaughtered-in-north-fort-myers-backyard?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-a283760d9cdcd146a19df9ff2f25edd4

The right sniff: Training pet dogs to follow their nose

When you open the door to a science lab at Dal, you expect to find hard-at-work grad students, rows of microscopes, stacks of test tubes and other scientific equipment.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2013/02/the-right-sniff-training-pet-dogs-to-follow-their-nose?fromrss=1

Caption This: Dog Enjoys a 'Breeze'

Patch readers, you're up! We need your wit, creativity and animal psychic abilities to craft the perfect caption for the next edition of our pet photo caption challenge! What a breeze! What's this maltese thinking as it catches a breeze from below? Suggest your caption in the Comments section below.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2013/02/caption-this-dog-enjoys-a-breeze-2?fromrss=1

Caption This: Dog Enjoys a 'Breeze'

Patch readers, you're up! We need your wit, creativity and animal psychic abilities to craft the perfect caption for the next edition of our pet photo caption challenge! What a breeze! What's this maltese thinking as it catches a breeze from below? Suggest your caption in the Comments section below.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2013/02/caption-this-dog-enjoys-a-breeze?fromrss=1

Animal Hospital Blog: Small Mouths Can Have Big Problems Too

I was so inspired after reading William and Harry's dental blog the other day, I thought I should take time to discuss the importance of dental health and the exotic pet.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2013/02/animal-hospital-blog-small-mouths-can-have-big-problems-too?fromrss=1

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

The Six Funniest Pet Videos of All Time

Seriously - there's even an Internet Cat Video Film Festival . Do videos of dogs get the same attention? No way - nor do other beloved pets ranging from guinea pigs to boa constrictors.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2013/02/the-six-funniest-pet-videos-of-all-time?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-c52854379e0e7b6a714dc2b1ac3007a4

Kitten Siblings Make Their Escape

Watch as 7-week-old Pumpkin and Squash, brothers in search of adventure, scramble over a baby gate to explore the rest of their foster home.




[**&nbsp_place_holder;Comments&nbsp_place_holder;(2)](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/02/27/kitten-siblings-make-their-escape.aspx?ShowAllComments=True#comments)**

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/02/27/kitten-siblings-make-their-escape.aspx

Unproven anti-aging pill for dogs worth the bite in your budget?

What if you could give your dog a pill that would help it live longer? A company claims it has developed just such a pill that can slow down the aging process for canines.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2013/02/unproven-anti-aging-pill-for-dogs-worth-the-bite-in-your-budget?fromrss=1

Children with autism show increased positive social behaviors when animals are present

The presence of an animal can significantly increase positive social behaviors in children with autism spectrum disorders, according to new research.![](http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/sciencedaily/plants_animals/dogs/~4/SyoSllLXwXo)

URL: http://feeds.sciencedaily.com/~r/sciencedaily/plants_animals/dogs/~3/SyoSllLXwXo/130227183504.htm

United Pet Group Inc., Voluntarily Withdraws "Ultra Blend Gourmet Food for Parakeets, " "eCotrition Grains & Greens Nutritional Supplement for Parakeets, " "eCotrition Grains & Greens Nutritional Supplement for Canaries and Finches, " and "eCotrition Grains & Greens Nutritional Supplement for Cockatiels" Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination

United Pet Group, Inc., announces that it has voluntarily withdrawn a limited quantity of the products "Ultra Blend Gourmet Food for Parakeets," "eCotrition Grains and Greens Nutritional Supplement for Parakeets," "eCotrition Grains and Greens Nutritional Supplement for Canaries and Finches," and "eCotrition Grains and Greens Nutritional Supplement for Cockatiels." These products contain small quantities of dried parsley flakes supplied to United Pet Group by Specialty Commodities, Inc. On February 11, 2013, Specialty Commodities, Inc. initiated a voluntary product recall of parsley flakes distributed to United Pet Group and other pet food suppliers because the products may have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

URL: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm341527.htm

Have a hedgehog? Beware of pets spreading salmonella

Pets may look cute, but they can be carriers of disease. Chickens, frogs, hedgehogs, lizards, snakes, toads and turtles can carry salmonella.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2013/02/have-a-hedgehog-beware-of-pets-spreading-salmonella?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-bdba6b95c00f177ac30ddec21106d057

How to Feed Your Cat What She Wants - and Needs

**By Dr. Becker**

> In a recent study on kitty diets, it was discovered that domestic cats have the ability to select and combine different types of commercial cat foods to consistently meet their nutritional requirements for protein, fat and carbohydrates.
>
> Scientists at the Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition in England conducted the research in collaboration with scientists from the University of Sydney and the Institute of Natural Sciences at Massey University in New Zealand. The study was published in the December 2012 _Journal of Comparative Physiology B_[1](http://healthypets.mercola.com/rss/healthypet-rss.aspx#_edn1).

## How the Study Was Conducted

> The study was conducted in four experiments, each involving three phases. Phase 1 lasted seven days, during which all the cats were exposed to all the different foods (three dry commercial formulas and three wet commercial formulas) simultaneously. The goal of phase 1 was to assess how the kitties self-selected their nutrition from foods that were unfamiliar to them.
>
> In phase 2 the cats were cycled through eight three-day periods during which they were fed a different pair of wet and dry foods on each of the three days. In this phase, researchers measured the nutrients the cats selected from their food-pair options. Also during this phase, the kitties got more accustomed to the foods.
>
> Phase 3 was a repeat of phase 1, except that now the cats were "experienced" with the foods.
>
> Experiment 1 involved 18 cats who were fed one wet food and three dry foods in separate bowls during phases 1 and 3. For phase 2, the kitties were fed the wet food paired with one of the dry foods for each three-day cycle.
>
> In experiment 2, 17 cats were fed one dry food and three wet foods in phases 1 and 3, and the dry food paired with each of the wet foods during the eight three-day cycles.
>
> Experiment 3 involved 10 of the 18 cats from experiment 1. The kitties were fed three wet and three dry foods in six separate bowls during phases 1 and 3, and three different wet food/dry food pairs in phase 2.
>
> In experiment 4, the cats were offered a food combination of one wet food and one dry food, similar to what they might be offered at home. The foods contained about the same levels of macronutrients (protein, fat, carbohydrate), and the goal was to determine if different formats of food affected the ability of the cats to appropriately self-select a combination of the two foods that met their nutritional requirements.

## What the Study Showed

> The researchers' conclusion:
>
>> _"Using nutritional geometry we demonstrate convergence upon the same dietary macronutrient composition in the naive and experienced self-selection phases of each experiment as well as over the course of the 3-day cycles in the pair-wise choice phase of each experiment. Furthermore, even though the dietary options were very different in each of these experiments the macronutrient composition of the diets achieved across all experiments were remarkably similar. These results indicate that a mammalian obligate carnivore, the domestic cat, is able to regulate food selection and intake to balance macronutrient intake despite differences in moisture content and textural properties of the foods provided."_
>
> Remarkably, the amounts of protein, fat and carbohydrate the cats in the study self-selected were right in line with the results of a study published in 2011[2](http://healthypets.mercola.com/rss/healthypet-rss.aspx#_edn2) -- a study that represents the most extensive analysis of macronutrient regulation ever conducted on any carnivore.
>
> The [2011 study](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/04/07/largest-study-confirms-what-pet-cats-really-want-to-eat.aspx) showed that cats have a daily dietary macronutrient intake target of 52 percent protein, 36 percent fat, and 12 percent carbs. These percentages are similar to those reported for free-ranging feral cats, who self-select in proportions of 52 percent protein, 46 percent fat and 2 percent carbohydrates.
>
> The study authors suggest the difference in the carbohydrate intake between pet cats and feral cats could be because domestic kitties have evolved to tolerate a higher level of carbs in the diet from their long association with humans. Put another way, since most commercial cat foods in the last 50 years - especially dry formulas - have contained large amounts of carbohydrates, cats' bodies have acquired a level of resilience to the presence of biologically inappropriate ingredients in their diets.
>
> Most importantly, the study indicates that pet cats have somehow retained the ability - given the opportunity - to regulate their nutritional intake to closely match the natural diet of felines in the wild. And this phenomenon holds true even when kitties are presented with complex combinations of different wet and dry foods.

## What This Means for You and Your Cat

> One of the study authors and a scientist at Waltham, Dr. Adrian Hewson-Huges states:
>
>> _"This research has important implications for owners as it shows that cats are able to select and combine wet and dry foods to achieve their target intake of protein, fat and carbohydrate. In terms of products currently on the market, wet foods typically have higher proportions of protein and fat, while dry foods have a higher carbohydrate content."_
>
>> _"Providing cats with a combination of both wet and dry foods enables them to not only mix a diet in line with their preferred macronutrient target, but also express their desire to sample different foods."_
>
> Waltham is the parent company of Mars Petcare, manufacturer of several large pet food brands including Pedigree, Whiskas and Royal Canin. As such, in addition to conducting pet nutrition studies, the company also has a clear interest in selling their products.
>
> Since an increasing number of veterinarians and pet owners are recognizing the tremendous importance of moisture in cats' diets, one could logically conclude that manufacturers of dry cat food - which is much less costly to produce than a reasonably high quality canned food - are concerned for the future of their kibble products.
>
> While I agree with Dr. Hewson-Hughes that kitties should be offered a variety of different foods (as should dogs), I don't believe dry cat food should be on the menu. One thing the recent study doesn't address is the critical need for moisture in feline diets. A cat's natural prey is 70 to 80 percent moisture. Most dry foods are around 12 percent. Feline bodies are designed to get most of the moisture they need from the food they eat and not from gulping large quantities of water like dogs do. Your cat doesn't have a strong thirst drive compared to other species.
>
> If you want to feed your cat a healthy variety of foods, you can offer a combination of homemade raw (or cooked), commercially available raw, dehydrated raw, and/or human grade canned. It's crucially important that any diet you feed your pet be [nutritionally balanced](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/06/06/raw-food-diet-of-pets.aspx), species-appropriate, and made from high quality protein sources.

## One more thing …

> While domestic cats have the ability to select the right percentage of protein, fat and carbs when given the option, this doesn't mean they can select the appropriate amount of calories they require for their typically sedentary lifestyles.
>
> Animals living in the wild have no opportunity to overeat - their problem is often the opposite. But pet cats (and dogs) living indoors with their human families are another matter.
>
> Keep in mind that your cat is a natural hunter, and much of the food seeking he does around your house is not driven by hunger, but by his drive to hunt prey.
>
> If you leave "prey" in his bowl, he'll eat it. If you leave too much in his bowl or keep refilling it, he'll eat that, too. He'll keep "hunting" and eating as long as there is food available to him.
>
> All that to say … you must feed portion-controlled meals to your cat - preferably one in the morning and one in the evening. Don't leave it up to her to decide when she's full. And don't indulge Fluffy with an all-day, all-she-can-eat buffet. Of course, this is especially true if you're feeding a diet that spoils quickly at room temperature. But even if you're still feeding some kibble, I recommend you offer two portion-controlled meals daily.
>
> If your cat is overweight or you have no idea how many calories he should consume in a day, you can figure it out using the formula and information in my article [Valuable Tips for Helping Your Heavy Cat](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/03/03/weight-loss-for-fat-cats.aspx).



Sources:

* [PetfoodIndustry.com December 19, 2012](http://www.petfoodindustry.com/News/Wet,_dry_cat_food_study_links_diet_preference_to_nutrient_intake.html)
* [Discovery News December 18, 2012](http://news.discovery.com/earth/finicky-felines-have-science-on-their-side-121218.htm)


**Related Articles:**


![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [Largest Study EVER Confirms What Cats Really Want to Eat](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/04/07/largest-study-confirms-what-pet-cats-really-want-to-eat.aspx)

![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [More Evidence Real Meat is the Right Food for Your Cat](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/03/16/protein-in-real-meat-are-better-for-cats.aspx)

![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [Another Great Reason to Throw Out That Dry Cat Food](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/05/25/wet-cat-food-diet.aspx)


[**&nbsp_place_holder;Comments&nbsp_place_holder;(8)](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/02/27/cats-select-best-foods.aspx?ShowAllComments=True#comments)**

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/02/27/cats-select-best-foods.aspx

Bunnies get a hand up

Local business helps care for bunnies at shelter. Parsnip is one of the many [rabbits](http://www.topix.com/pets/rabbits) available for adoption at the [Oakville](http://www.topix.com/ca/oakville-on) & Milton Humane Society.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2013/02/bunnies-get-a-hand-up?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-3c7d52756251d85c2cc8fc0ef84e6b49

Family displaced by fire on Tucson's east side

[Tucson](http://www.topix.com/tucson) [Fire](http://www.topix.com/news/fire) Department investigators have determined that the fire, which started in a bedroom, was accidental.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2013/02/family-displaced-by-fire-on-tucsons-east-side?fromrss=1

How Guinea Pigs Could Help Autistic Children

A guinea pig does its part for science and human relations by sitting on the lap of an autistic child.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2013/02/how-guinea-pigs-could-help-autistic-children?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-5086219ecb4b6cc6fa6af36d6436aa78

How to Feed Your Cat What She Wants - and Needs

**By Dr. Becker**

> In a recent study on kitty diets, it was discovered that domestic cats have the ability to select and combine different types of commercial cat foods to consistently meet their nutritional requirements for protein, fat and carbohydrates.
>
> Scientists at the Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition in England conducted the research in collaboration with scientists from the University of Sydney and the Institute of Natural Sciences at Massey University in New Zealand. The study was published in the December 2012 _Journal of Comparative Physiology B_[1](http://healthypets.mercola.com/rss/healthypet-rss.aspx#_edn1).

## How the Study Was Conducted

> The study was conducted in four experiments, each involving three phases. Phase 1 lasted seven days, during which all the cats were exposed to all the different foods (three dry commercial formulas and three wet commercial formulas) simultaneously. The goal of phase 1 was to assess how the kitties self-selected their nutrition from foods that were unfamiliar to them.
>
> In phase 2 the cats were cycled through eight three-day periods during which they were fed a different pair of wet and dry foods on each of the three days. In this phase, researchers measured the nutrients the cats selected from their food-pair options. Also during this phase, the kitties got more accustomed to the foods.
>
> Phase 3 was a repeat of phase 1, except that now the cats were "experienced" with the foods.
>
> Experiment 1 involved 18 cats who were fed one wet food and three dry foods in separate bowls during phases 1 and 3. For phase 2, the kitties were fed the wet food paired with one of the dry foods for each three-day cycle.
>
> In experiment 2, 17 cats were fed one dry food and three wet foods in phases 1 and 3, and the dry food paired with each of the wet foods during the eight three-day cycles.
>
> Experiment 3 involved 10 of the 18 cats from experiment 1. The kitties were fed three wet and three dry foods in six separate bowls during phases 1 and 3, and three different wet food/dry food pairs in phase 2.
>
> In experiment 4, the cats were offered a food combination of one wet food and one dry food, similar to what they might be offered at home. The foods contained about the same levels of macronutrients (protein, fat, carbohydrate), and the goal was to determine if different formats of food affected the ability of the cats to appropriately self-select a combination of the two foods that met their nutritional requirements.

## What the Study Showed

> The researchers' conclusion:
>
>> _"Using nutritional geometry we demonstrate convergence upon the same dietary macronutrient composition in the naive and experienced self-selection phases of each experiment as well as over the course of the 3-day cycles in the pair-wise choice phase of each experiment. Furthermore, even though the dietary options were very different in each of these experiments the macronutrient composition of the diets achieved across all experiments were remarkably similar. These results indicate that a mammalian obligate carnivore, the domestic cat, is able to regulate food selection and intake to balance macronutrient intake despite differences in moisture content and textural properties of the foods provided."_
>
> Remarkably, the amounts of protein, fat and carbohydrate the cats in the study self-selected were right in line with the results of a study published in 2011[2](http://healthypets.mercola.com/rss/healthypet-rss.aspx#_edn2) -- a study that represents the most extensive analysis of macronutrient regulation ever conducted on any carnivore.
>
> The [2011 study](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/04/07/largest-study-confirms-what-pet-cats-really-want-to-eat.aspx) showed that cats have a daily dietary macronutrient intake target of 52 percent protein, 36 percent fat, and 12 percent carbs. These percentages are similar to those reported for free-ranging feral cats, who self-select in proportions of 52 percent protein, 46 percent fat and 2 percent carbohydrates.
>
> The study authors suggest the difference in the carbohydrate intake between pet cats and feral cats could be because domestic kitties have evolved to tolerate a higher level of carbs in the diet from their long association with humans. Put another way, since most commercial cat foods in the last 50 years - especially dry formulas - have contained large amounts of carbohydrates, cats' bodies have acquired a level of resilience to the presence of biologically inappropriate ingredients in their diets.
>
> Most importantly, the study indicates that pet cats have somehow retained the ability - given the opportunity - to regulate their nutritional intake to closely match the natural diet of felines in the wild. And this phenomenon holds true even when kitties are presented with complex combinations of different wet and dry foods.

## What This Means for You and Your Cat

> One of the study authors and a scientist at Waltham, Dr. Adrian Hewson-Huges states:
>
>> _"This research has important implications for owners as it shows that cats are able to select and combine wet and dry foods to achieve their target intake of protein, fat and carbohydrate. In terms of products currently on the market, wet foods typically have higher proportions of protein and fat, while dry foods have a higher carbohydrate content."_
>
>> _"Providing cats with a combination of both wet and dry foods enables them to not only mix a diet in line with their preferred macronutrient target, but also express their desire to sample different foods."_
>
> Waltham is the parent company of Mars Petcare, manufacturer of several large pet food brands including Pedigree, Whiskas and Royal Canin. As such, in addition to conducting pet nutrition studies, the company also has a clear interest in selling their products.
>
> Since an increasing number of veterinarians and pet owners are recognizing the tremendous importance of moisture in cats' diets, one could logically conclude that manufacturers of dry cat food - which is much less costly to produce than a reasonably high quality canned food - are concerned for the future of their kibble products.
>
> While I agree with Dr. Hewson-Hughes that kitties should be offered a variety of different foods (as should dogs), I don't believe dry cat food should be on the menu. One thing the recent study doesn't address is the critical need for moisture in feline diets. A cat's natural prey is 70 to 80 percent moisture. Most dry foods are around 12 percent. Feline bodies are designed to get most of the moisture they need from the food they eat and not from gulping large quantities of water like dogs do. Your cat doesn't have a strong thirst drive compared to other species.
>
> If you want to feed your cat a healthy variety of foods, you can offer a combination of homemade raw (or cooked), commercially available raw, dehydrated raw, and/or human grade canned. It's crucially important that any diet you feed your pet be [nutritionally balanced](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/06/06/raw-food-diet-of-pets.aspx), species-appropriate, and made from high quality protein sources.

## One more thing …

> While domestic cats have the ability to select the right percentage of protein, fat and carbs when given the option, this doesn't mean they can select the appropriate amount of calories they require for their typically sedentary lifestyles.
>
> Animals living in the wild have no opportunity to overeat - their problem is often the opposite. But pet cats (and dogs) living indoors with their human families are another matter.
>
> Keep in mind that your cat is a natural hunter, and much of the food seeking he does around your house is not driven by hunger, but by his drive to hunt prey.
>
> If you leave "prey" in his bowl, he'll eat it. If you leave too much in his bowl or keep refilling it, he'll eat that, too. He'll keep "hunting" and eating as long as there is food available to him.
>
> All that to say … you must feed portion-controlled meals to your cat - preferably one in the morning and one in the evening. Don't leave it up to her to decide when she's full. And don't indulge Fluffy with an all-day, all-she-can-eat buffet. Of course, this is especially true if you're feeding a diet that spoils quickly at room temperature. But even if you're still feeding some kibble, I recommend you offer two portion-controlled meals daily.
>
> If your cat is overweight or you have no idea how many calories he should consume in a day, you can figure it out using the formula and information in my article [Valuable Tips for Helping Your Heavy Cat](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/03/03/weight-loss-for-fat-cats.aspx).



Sources:

* [PetfoodIndustry.com December 19, 2012](http://www.petfoodindustry.com/News/Wet,_dry_cat_food_study_links_diet_preference_to_nutrient_intake.html)
* [Discovery News December 18, 2012](http://news.discovery.com/earth/finicky-felines-have-science-on-their-side-121218.htm)


**Related Articles:**


![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [Largest Study EVER Confirms What Cats Really Want to Eat](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/04/07/largest-study-confirms-what-pet-cats-really-want-to-eat.aspx)

![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [More Evidence Real Meat is the Right Food for Your Cat](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/03/16/protein-in-real-meat-are-better-for-cats.aspx)

![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [Another Great Reason to Throw Out That Dry Cat Food](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/05/25/wet-cat-food-diet.aspx)


[**&nbsp_place_holder;Comments&nbsp_place_holder;(7)](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/02/27/cats-select-best-foods.aspx?ShowAllComments=True#comments)**

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/02/27/cats-select-best-foods.aspx

Rehoboth Animal Hospital: New office welcomes new clients

The Rehoboth Animal Hospital stands out from the crowd with its red barn look, which owner Dr.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2013/02/rehoboth-animal-hospital-new-office-welcomes-new-clients?fromrss=1
Enclosure: http://www.topix.com/bigpic/mini-9674c61f01605e6449d0c4d67be0a1ee

How to Feed Your Cat What She Wants - and Needs

**By Dr. Becker**

> In a recent study on kitty diets, it was discovered that domestic cats have the ability to select and combine different types of commercial cat foods to consistently meet their nutritional requirements for protein, fat and carbohydrates.
>
> Scientists at the Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition in England conducted the research in collaboration with scientists from the University of Sydney and the Institute of Natural Sciences at Massey University in New Zealand. The study was published in the December 2012 _Journal of Comparative Physiology B_[1](http://healthypets.mercola.com/rss/healthypet-rss.aspx#_edn1).

## How the Study Was Conducted

> The study was conducted in four experiments, each involving three phases. Phase 1 lasted seven days, during which all the cats were exposed to all the different foods (three dry commercial formulas and three wet commercial formulas) simultaneously. The goal of phase 1 was to assess how the kitties self-selected their nutrition from foods that were unfamiliar to them.
>
> In phase 2 the cats were cycled through eight three-day periods during which they were fed a different pair of wet and dry foods on each of the three days. In this phase, researchers measured the nutrients the cats selected from their food-pair options. Also during this phase, the kitties got more accustomed to the foods.
>
> Phase 3 was a repeat of phase 1, except that now the cats were "experienced" with the foods.
>
> Experiment 1 involved 18 cats who were fed one wet food and three dry foods in separate bowls during phases 1 and 3. For phase 2, the kitties were fed the wet food paired with one of the dry foods for each three-day cycle.
>
> In experiment 2, 17 cats were fed one dry food and three wet foods in phases 1 and 3, and the dry food paired with each of the wet foods during the eight three-day cycles.
>
> Experiment 3 involved 10 of the 18 cats from experiment 1. The kitties were fed three wet and three dry foods in six separate bowls during phases 1 and 3, and three different wet food/dry food pairs in phase 2.
>
> In experiment 4, the cats were offered a food combination of one wet food and one dry food, similar to what they might be offered at home. The foods contained about the same levels of macronutrients (protein, fat, carbohydrate), and the goal was to determine if different formats of food affected the ability of the cats to appropriately self-select a combination of the two foods that met their nutritional requirements.

## What the Study Showed

> The researchers' conclusion:
>
>> _"Using nutritional geometry we demonstrate convergence upon the same dietary macronutrient composition in the naive and experienced self-selection phases of each experiment as well as over the course of the 3-day cycles in the pair-wise choice phase of each experiment. Furthermore, even though the dietary options were very different in each of these experiments the macronutrient composition of the diets achieved across all experiments were remarkably similar. These results indicate that a mammalian obligate carnivore, the domestic cat, is able to regulate food selection and intake to balance macronutrient intake despite differences in moisture content and textural properties of the foods provided."_
>
> Remarkably, the amounts of protein, fat and carbohydrate the cats in the study self-selected were right in line with the results of a study published in 2011[2](http://healthypets.mercola.com/rss/healthypet-rss.aspx#_edn2) -- a study that represents the most extensive analysis of macronutrient regulation ever conducted on any carnivore.
>
> The [2011 study](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/04/07/largest-study-confirms-what-pet-cats-really-want-to-eat.aspx) showed that cats have a daily dietary macronutrient intake target of 52 percent protein, 36 percent fat, and 12 percent carbs. These percentages are similar to those reported for free-ranging feral cats, who self-select in proportions of 52 percent protein, 46 percent fat and 2 percent carbohydrates.
>
> The study authors suggest the difference in the carbohydrate intake between pet cats and feral cats could be because domestic kitties have evolved to tolerate a higher level of carbs in the diet from their long association with humans. Put another way, since most commercial cat foods in the last 50 years - especially dry formulas - have contained large amounts of carbohydrates, cats' bodies have acquired a level of resilience to the presence of biologically inappropriate ingredients in their diets.
>
> Most importantly, the study indicates that pet cats have somehow retained the ability - given the opportunity - to regulate their nutritional intake to closely match the natural diet of felines in the wild. And this phenomenon holds true even when kitties are presented with complex combinations of different wet and dry foods.

## What This Means for You and Your Cat

> One of the study authors and a scientist at Waltham, Dr. Adrian Hewson-Huges states:
>
>> _"This research has important implications for owners as it shows that cats are able to select and combine wet and dry foods to achieve their target intake of protein, fat and carbohydrate. In terms of products currently on the market, wet foods typically have higher proportions of protein and fat, while dry foods have a higher carbohydrate content."_
>
>> _"Providing cats with a combination of both wet and dry foods enables them to not only mix a diet in line with their preferred macronutrient target, but also express their desire to sample different foods."_
>
> Waltham is the parent company of Mars Petcare, manufacturer of several large pet food brands including Pedigree, Whiskas and Royal Canin. As such, in addition to conducting pet nutrition studies, the company also has a clear interest in selling their products.
>
> Since an increasing number of veterinarians and pet owners are recognizing the tremendous importance of moisture in cats' diets, one could logically conclude that manufacturers of dry cat food - which is much less costly to produce than a reasonably high quality canned food - are concerned for the future of their kibble products.
>
> While I agree with Dr. Hewson-Hughes that kitties should be offered a variety of different foods (as should dogs), I don't believe dry cat food should be on the menu. One thing the recent study doesn't address is the critical need for moisture in feline diets. A cat's natural prey is 70 to 80 percent moisture. Most dry foods are around 12 percent. Feline bodies are designed to get most of the moisture they need from the food they eat and not from gulping large quantities of water like dogs do. Your cat doesn't have a strong thirst drive compared to other species.
>
> If you want to feed your cat a healthy variety of foods, you can offer a combination of homemade raw (or cooked), commercially available raw, dehydrated raw, and/or human grade canned. It's crucially important that any diet you feed your pet be [nutritionally balanced](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/06/06/raw-food-diet-of-pets.aspx), species-appropriate, and made from high quality protein sources.

## One more thing …

> While domestic cats have the ability to select the right percentage of protein, fat and carbs when given the option, this doesn't mean they can select the appropriate amount of calories they require for their typically sedentary lifestyles.
>
> Animals living in the wild have no opportunity to overeat - their problem is often the opposite. But pet cats (and dogs) living indoors with their human families are another matter.
>
> Keep in mind that your cat is a natural hunter, and much of the food seeking he does around your house is not driven by hunger, but by his drive to hunt prey.
>
> If you leave "prey" in his bowl, he'll eat it. If you leave too much in his bowl or keep refilling it, he'll eat that, too. He'll keep "hunting" and eating as long as there is food available to him.
>
> All that to say … you must feed portion-controlled meals to your cat - preferably one in the morning and one in the evening. Don't leave it up to her to decide when she's full. And don't indulge Fluffy with an all-day, all-she-can-eat buffet. Of course, this is especially true if you're feeding a diet that spoils quickly at room temperature. But even if you're still feeding some kibble, I recommend you offer two portion-controlled meals daily.
>
> If your cat is overweight or you have no idea how many calories he should consume in a day, you can figure it out using the formula and information in my article [Valuable Tips for Helping Your Heavy Cat](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/03/03/weight-loss-for-fat-cats.aspx).



Sources:

* [PetfoodIndustry.com December 19, 2012](http://www.petfoodindustry.com/News/Wet,_dry_cat_food_study_links_diet_preference_to_nutrient_intake.html)
* [Discovery News December 18, 2012](http://news.discovery.com/earth/finicky-felines-have-science-on-their-side-121218.htm)


**Related Articles:**


![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [Largest Study EVER Confirms What Cats Really Want to Eat](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/04/07/largest-study-confirms-what-pet-cats-really-want-to-eat.aspx)

![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [More Evidence Real Meat is the Right Food for Your Cat](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/03/16/protein-in-real-meat-are-better-for-cats.aspx)

![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [Another Great Reason to Throw Out That Dry Cat Food](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/05/25/wet-cat-food-diet.aspx)


[**&nbsp_place_holder;Comments&nbsp_place_holder;(6)](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/02/27/cats-select-best-foods.aspx?ShowAllComments=True#comments)**

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/02/27/cats-select-best-foods.aspx

How to Feed Your Cat What She Wants - and Needs

**By Dr. Becker**

> In a recent study on kitty diets, it was discovered that domestic cats have the ability to select and combine different types of commercial cat foods to consistently meet their nutritional requirements for protein, fat and carbohydrates.
>
> Scientists at the Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition in England conducted the research in collaboration with scientists from the University of Sydney and the Institute of Natural Sciences at Massey University in New Zealand. The study was published in the December 2012 _Journal of Comparative Physiology B_[1](http://healthypets.mercola.com/rss/healthypet-rss.aspx#_edn1).

## How the Study Was Conducted

> The study was conducted in four experiments, each involving three phases. Phase 1 lasted seven days, during which all the cats were exposed to all the different foods (three dry commercial formulas and three wet commercial formulas) simultaneously. The goal of phase 1 was to assess how the kitties self-selected their nutrition from foods that were unfamiliar to them.
>
> In phase 2 the cats were cycled through eight three-day periods during which they were fed a different pair of wet and dry foods on each of the three days. In this phase, researchers measured the nutrients the cats selected from their food-pair options. Also during this phase, the kitties got more accustomed to the foods.
>
> Phase 3 was a repeat of phase 1, except that now the cats were "experienced" with the foods.
>
> Experiment 1 involved 18 cats who were fed one wet food and three dry foods in separate bowls during phases 1 and 3. For phase 2, the kitties were fed the wet food paired with one of the dry foods for each three-day cycle.
>
> In experiment 2, 17 cats were fed one dry food and three wet foods in phases 1 and 3, and the dry food paired with each of the wet foods during the eight three-day cycles.
>
> Experiment 3 involved 10 of the 18 cats from experiment 1. The kitties were fed three wet and three dry foods in six separate bowls during phases 1 and 3, and three different wet food/dry food pairs in phase 2.
>
> In experiment 4, the cats were offered a food combination of one wet food and one dry food, similar to what they might be offered at home. The foods contained about the same levels of macronutrients (protein, fat, carbohydrate), and the goal was to determine if different formats of food affected the ability of the cats to appropriately self-select a combination of the two foods that met their nutritional requirements.

## What the Study Showed

> The researchers' conclusion:
>
>> _"Using nutritional geometry we demonstrate convergence upon the same dietary macronutrient composition in the naive and experienced self-selection phases of each experiment as well as over the course of the 3-day cycles in the pair-wise choice phase of each experiment. Furthermore, even though the dietary options were very different in each of these experiments the macronutrient composition of the diets achieved across all experiments were remarkably similar. These results indicate that a mammalian obligate carnivore, the domestic cat, is able to regulate food selection and intake to balance macronutrient intake despite differences in moisture content and textural properties of the foods provided."_
>
> Remarkably, the amounts of protein, fat and carbohydrate the cats in the study self-selected were right in line with the results of a study published in 2011[2](http://healthypets.mercola.com/rss/healthypet-rss.aspx#_edn2) -- a study that represents the most extensive analysis of macronutrient regulation ever conducted on any carnivore.
>
> The [2011 study](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/04/07/largest-study-confirms-what-pet-cats-really-want-to-eat.aspx) showed that cats have a daily dietary macronutrient intake target of 52 percent protein, 36 percent fat, and 12 percent carbs. These percentages are similar to those reported for free-ranging feral cats, who self-select in proportions of 52 percent protein, 46 percent fat and 2 percent carbohydrates.
>
> The study authors suggest the difference in the carbohydrate intake between pet cats and feral cats could be because domestic kitties have evolved to tolerate a higher level of carbs in the diet from their long association with humans. Put another way, since most commercial cat foods in the last 50 years - especially dry formulas - have contained large amounts of carbohydrates, cats' bodies have acquired a level of resilience to the presence of biologically inappropriate ingredients in their diets.
>
> Most importantly, the study indicates that pet cats have somehow retained the ability - given the opportunity - to regulate their nutritional intake to closely match the natural diet of felines in the wild. And this phenomenon holds true even when kitties are presented with complex combinations of different wet and dry foods.

## What This Means for You and Your Cat

> One of the study authors and a scientist at Waltham, Dr. Adrian Hewson-Huges states:
>
>> _"This research has important implications for owners as it shows that cats are able to select and combine wet and dry foods to achieve their target intake of protein, fat and carbohydrate. In terms of products currently on the market, wet foods typically have higher proportions of protein and fat, while dry foods have a higher carbohydrate content."_
>
>> _"Providing cats with a combination of both wet and dry foods enables them to not only mix a diet in line with their preferred macronutrient target, but also express their desire to sample different foods."_
>
> Waltham is the parent company of Mars Petcare, manufacturer of several large pet food brands including Pedigree, Whiskas and Royal Canin. As such, in addition to conducting pet nutrition studies, the company also has a clear interest in selling their products.
>
> Since an increasing number of veterinarians and pet owners are recognizing the tremendous importance of moisture in cats' diets, one could logically conclude that manufacturers of dry cat food - which is much less costly to produce than a reasonably high quality canned food - are concerned for the future of their kibble products.
>
> While I agree with Dr. Hewson-Hughes that kitties should be offered a variety of different foods (as should dogs), I don't believe dry cat food should be on the menu. One thing the recent study doesn't address is the critical need for moisture in feline diets. A cat's natural prey is 70 to 80 percent moisture. Most dry foods are around 12 percent. Feline bodies are designed to get most of the moisture they need from the food they eat and not from gulping large quantities of water like dogs do. Your cat doesn't have a strong thirst drive compared to other species.
>
> If you want to feed your cat a healthy variety of foods, you can offer a combination of homemade raw (or cooked), commercially available raw, dehydrated raw, and/or human grade canned. It's crucially important that any diet you feed your pet be [nutritionally balanced](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/06/06/raw-food-diet-of-pets.aspx), species-appropriate, and made from high quality protein sources.

## One more thing …

> While domestic cats have the ability to select the right percentage of protein, fat and carbs when given the option, this doesn't mean they can select the appropriate amount of calories they require for their typically sedentary lifestyles.
>
> Animals living in the wild have no opportunity to overeat - their problem is often the opposite. But pet cats (and dogs) living indoors with their human families are another matter.
>
> Keep in mind that your cat is a natural hunter, and much of the food seeking he does around your house is not driven by hunger, but by his drive to hunt prey.
>
> If you leave "prey" in his bowl, he'll eat it. If you leave too much in his bowl or keep refilling it, he'll eat that, too. He'll keep "hunting" and eating as long as there is food available to him.
>
> All that to say … you must feed portion-controlled meals to your cat - preferably one in the morning and one in the evening. Don't leave it up to her to decide when she's full. And don't indulge Fluffy with an all-day, all-she-can-eat buffet. Of course, this is especially true if you're feeding a diet that spoils quickly at room temperature. But even if you're still feeding some kibble, I recommend you offer two portion-controlled meals daily.
>
> If your cat is overweight or you have no idea how many calories he should consume in a day, you can figure it out using the formula and information in my article [Valuable Tips for Helping Your Heavy Cat](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/03/03/weight-loss-for-fat-cats.aspx).



Sources:

* [PetfoodIndustry.com December 19, 2012](http://www.petfoodindustry.com/News/Wet,_dry_cat_food_study_links_diet_preference_to_nutrient_intake.html)
* [Discovery News December 18, 2012](http://news.discovery.com/earth/finicky-felines-have-science-on-their-side-121218.htm)


**Related Articles:**


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![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [More Evidence Real Meat is the Right Food for Your Cat](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/03/16/protein-in-real-meat-are-better-for-cats.aspx)

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URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/02/27/cats-select-best-foods.aspx

A Haven for Turtles, in a Scarborough Apartment

It's hard not to be overwhelmed when entering Marc Ouellette's Scarborough apartment for the first time.

URL: http://www.topix.com/pets/2013/02/a-haven-for-turtles-in-a-scarborough-apartment?fromrss=1

Top Pet Names for 2012

**By Dr. Becker**

> Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI) has released its annual list of most popular pet names for 2012. Using a database of almost 500,000 insured pets, VPI determined "Bella" was the most popular name for dogs and cats, and the third most popular for birds and exotic pets.
>
> Interestingly, the top five dog and cat names were also among the most popular names for babies during 2012.
>
>> _"The popularity of people names doubling as pet names is a testament to the bigger trend of pet owners viewing their pets as members of the family,"_ says Curtis Steinhoff, director of corporate communications at VPI. _"It's now just as common for a pet to be named Oliver or Chloe as it is for a child."_

## Most Popular Pet Names of 2012

> **Dogs**
> **Cats**
> **Birds and Exotics**
>
> 1.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder; Bella
> 1.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Bella
> 1.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Charlie
>
> 2.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Bailey
> 2.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Max
> 2.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Buddy
>
> 3.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Max
> 3.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Chloe
> 3.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Bella
>
> 4.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Lucy
> 4.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Oliver
> 4.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Max
>
> 5.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Molly
> 5.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Lucy
> 5.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Angel
>
> 6.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Buddy
> 6.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Smokey
> 6.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Baby
>
> 7.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Daisy
> 7.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Shadow
> 7.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Coco
>
> 8.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Maggie
> 8.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Tiger
> 8.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Rocky
>
> 9.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Charlie
> 9.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Charlie
> 9.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Bandit
>
> 10.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Sophie
> 10.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Tigger
> 10.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Sunny

## Most Popular Male and Female Puppy Names of 2012

> Vetstreet pulled the following most popular male and female puppy names from a database of 1.26 million puppies born last year.
>
> **Males**
> **Females**
>
> 1.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Max
> 1.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Bella
>
> 2.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Buddy
> 2.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Daisy
>
> 3.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Charlie
> 3.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Lucy
>
> 4.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Rocky
> 4.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Molly
>
> 5.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Cooper
> 5.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Lola
>
> 6.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Bear
> 6.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Sophie
>
> 7.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Bentley
> 7.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Sadie
>
> 8.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Duke
> 8.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Chloe
>
> 9.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Jack
> 9.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Coco
>
> 10.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Toby
> 10.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Maggie

## Dog Names Trending Up … and Names on Their Way Out

> Vetstreet also came up with a list of the top 10 trendiest names of 2012 for both male and female dogs, as well as names that have fallen in popularity since 2003:
>
> **Trending Up**
> **Trending Down**
>
> **Males**
> **Females**
> **Males**
> **Females**
>
> 1.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Dexter
> 1.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Luna
> 1.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Scooter
> 1.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Brandy
>
> 2.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Thor
> 2.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Layla
> 2.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Dakota
> 2.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Holly
>
> 3.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Gunner
> 3.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Piper
> 3.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Rudy
> 3.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Misty
>
> 4.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Bentley
> 4.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Nala
> 4.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Spike
> 4.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Katie
>
> 5.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Jax
> 5.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Stella
> 5.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Joey
> 5.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Lucky
>
> 6.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Ace
> 6.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Willow
> 6.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Rusty
> 6.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Heidi
>
> 7.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Leo
> 7.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Maya
> 7.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Scooby
> 7.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Casey
>
> 8.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;King
> 8.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Athena
> 8.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Luke
> 8.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Sheba
>
> 9.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Simba
> 9.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Charlie
> 9.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Smokey
> 9.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Madison
>
> 10.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Milo
> 10.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Ella
> 10.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Sammy
> 10.&nbsp_place_holder;&nbsp_place_holder;Shadow



Sources:

* [dvm360 January 11, 2012](http://veterinarynews.dvm360.com/dvm/Veterinary+news/Bella-tops-the-charts-of-most-popular-pet-names/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/802405?contextCategoryId=378&ref=25)
* [Vetstreet December 4, 2012](http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/most-popular-puppy-names-of-2012)


**Related Articles:**


![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [Phat Daddy? Kitty Gaga?… Goofiest Pet Names for 2012](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/10/12/popular-dog-and-cat-names.aspx)

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[**&nbsp_place_holder;Comments&nbsp_place_holder;(3)](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/02/27/2012-top-pet-names.aspx?ShowAllComments=True#comments)**

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/02/27/2012-top-pet-names.aspx

How to Feed Your Cat What She Wants - and Needs

**By Dr. Becker**

> In a recent study on kitty diets, it was discovered that domestic cats have the ability to select and combine different types of commercial cat foods to consistently meet their nutritional requirements for protein, fat and carbohydrates.
>
> Scientists at the Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition in England conducted the research in collaboration with scientists from the University of Sydney and the Institute of Natural Sciences at Massey University in New Zealand. The study was published in the December 2012 _Journal of Comparative Physiology B_[1](http://healthypets.mercola.com/rss/healthypet-rss.aspx#_edn1).

## How the Study Was Conducted

> The study was conducted in four experiments, each involving three phases. Phase 1 lasted seven days, during which all the cats were exposed to all the different foods (three dry commercial formulas and three wet commercial formulas) simultaneously. The goal of phase 1 was to assess how the kitties self-selected their nutrition from foods that were unfamiliar to them.
>
> In phase 2 the cats were cycled through eight three-day periods during which they were fed a different pair of wet and dry foods on each of the three days. In this phase, researchers measured the nutrients the cats selected from their food-pair options. Also during this phase, the kitties got more accustomed to the foods.
>
> Phase 3 was a repeat of phase 1, except that now the cats were "experienced" with the foods.
>
> Experiment 1 involved 18 cats who were fed one wet food and three dry foods in separate bowls during phases 1 and 3. For phase 2, the kitties were fed the wet food paired with one of the dry foods for each three-day cycle.
>
> In experiment 2, 17 cats were fed one dry food and three wet foods in phases 1 and 3, and the dry food paired with each of the wet foods during the eight three-day cycles.
>
> Experiment 3 involved 10 of the 18 cats from experiment 1. The kitties were fed three wet and three dry foods in six separate bowls during phases 1 and 3, and three different wet food/dry food pairs in phase 2.
>
> In experiment 4, the cats were offered a food combination of one wet food and one dry food, similar to what they might be offered at home. The foods contained about the same levels of macronutrients (protein, fat, carbohydrate), and the goal was to determine if different formats of food affected the ability of the cats to appropriately self-select a combination of the two foods that met their nutritional requirements.

## What the Study Showed

> The researchers' conclusion:
>
>> _"Using nutritional geometry we demonstrate convergence upon the same dietary macronutrient composition in the naive and experienced self-selection phases of each experiment as well as over the course of the 3-day cycles in the pair-wise choice phase of each experiment. Furthermore, even though the dietary options were very different in each of these experiments the macronutrient composition of the diets achieved across all experiments were remarkably similar. These results indicate that a mammalian obligate carnivore, the domestic cat, is able to regulate food selection and intake to balance macronutrient intake despite differences in moisture content and textural properties of the foods provided."_
>
> Remarkably, the amounts of protein, fat and carbohydrate the cats in the study self-selected were right in line with the results of a study published in 2011[2](http://healthypets.mercola.com/rss/healthypet-rss.aspx#_edn2) -- a study that represents the most extensive analysis of macronutrient regulation ever conducted on any carnivore.
>
> The [2011 study](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/04/07/largest-study-confirms-what-pet-cats-really-want-to-eat.aspx) showed that cats have a daily dietary macronutrient intake target of 52 percent protein, 36 percent fat, and 12 percent carbs. These percentages are similar to those reported for free-ranging feral cats, who self-select in proportions of 52 percent protein, 46 percent fat and 2 percent carbohydrates.
>
> The study authors suggest the difference in the carbohydrate intake between pet cats and feral cats could be because domestic kitties have evolved to tolerate a higher level of carbs in the diet from their long association with humans. Put another way, since most commercial cat foods in the last 50 years - especially dry formulas - have contained large amounts of carbohydrates, cats' bodies have acquired a level of resilience to the presence of biologically inappropriate ingredients in their diets.
>
> Most importantly, the study indicates that pet cats have somehow retained the ability - given the opportunity - to regulate their nutritional intake to closely match the natural diet of felines in the wild. And this phenomenon holds true even when kitties are presented with complex combinations of different wet and dry foods.

## What This Means for You and Your Cat

> One of the study authors and a scientist at Waltham, Dr. Adrian Hewson-Huges states:
>
>> _"This research has important implications for owners as it shows that cats are able to select and combine wet and dry foods to achieve their target intake of protein, fat and carbohydrate. In terms of products currently on the market, wet foods typically have higher proportions of protein and fat, while dry foods have a higher carbohydrate content."_
>
>> _"Providing cats with a combination of both wet and dry foods enables them to not only mix a diet in line with their preferred macronutrient target, but also express their desire to sample different foods."_
>
> Waltham is the parent company of Mars Petcare, manufacturer of several large pet food brands including Pedigree, Whiskas and Royal Canin. As such, in addition to conducting pet nutrition studies, the company also has a clear interest in selling their products.
>
> Since an increasing number of veterinarians and pet owners are recognizing the tremendous importance of moisture in cats' diets, one could logically conclude that manufacturers of dry cat food - which is much less costly to produce than a reasonably high quality canned food - are concerned for the future of their kibble products.
>
> While I agree with Dr. Hewson-Hughes that kitties should be offered a variety of different foods (as should dogs), I don't believe dry cat food should be on the menu. One thing the recent study doesn't address is the critical need for moisture in feline diets. A cat's natural prey is 70 to 80 percent moisture. Most dry foods are around 12 percent. Feline bodies are designed to get most of the moisture they need from the food they eat and not from gulping large quantities of water like dogs do. Your cat doesn't have a strong thirst drive compared to other species.
>
> If you want to feed your cat a healthy variety of foods, you can offer a combination of homemade raw (or cooked), commercially available raw, dehydrated raw, and/or human grade canned. It's crucially important that any diet you feed your pet be [nutritionally balanced](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/06/06/raw-food-diet-of-pets.aspx), species-appropriate, and made from high quality protein sources.

## One more thing …

> While domestic cats have the ability to select the right percentage of protein, fat and carbs when given the option, this doesn't mean they can select the appropriate amount of calories they require for their typically sedentary lifestyles.
>
> Animals living in the wild have no opportunity to overeat - their problem is often the opposite. But pet cats (and dogs) living indoors with their human families are another matter.
>
> Keep in mind that your cat is a natural hunter, and much of the food seeking he does around your house is not driven by hunger, but by his drive to hunt prey.
>
> If you leave "prey" in his bowl, he'll eat it. If you leave too much in his bowl or keep refilling it, he'll eat that, too. He'll keep "hunting" and eating as long as there is food available to him.
>
> All that to say … you must feed portion-controlled meals to your cat - preferably one in the morning and one in the evening. Don't leave it up to her to decide when she's full. And don't indulge Fluffy with an all-day, all-she-can-eat buffet. Of course, this is especially true if you're feeding a diet that spoils quickly at room temperature. But even if you're still feeding some kibble, I recommend you offer two portion-controlled meals daily.
>
> If your cat is overweight or you have no idea how many calories he should consume in a day, you can figure it out using the formula and information in my article [Valuable Tips for Helping Your Heavy Cat](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/03/03/weight-loss-for-fat-cats.aspx).



Sources:

* [PetfoodIndustry.com December 19, 2012](http://www.petfoodindustry.com/News/Wet,_dry_cat_food_study_links_diet_preference_to_nutrient_intake.html)
* [Discovery News December 18, 2012](http://news.discovery.com/earth/finicky-felines-have-science-on-their-side-121218.htm)


**Related Articles:**


![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [Largest Study EVER Confirms What Cats Really Want to Eat](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/04/07/largest-study-confirms-what-pet-cats-really-want-to-eat.aspx)

![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [More Evidence Real Meat is the Right Food for Your Cat](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/03/16/protein-in-real-meat-are-better-for-cats.aspx)

![](http://healthypets.mercola.com/themes/blogs/MercolaArticle/mercolaimages/bullet.gif)&nbsp_place_holder; [Another Great Reason to Throw Out That Dry Cat Food](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2012/05/25/wet-cat-food-diet.aspx)


[**&nbsp_place_holder;Comments&nbsp_place_holder;(3)](http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/02/27/cats-select-best-foods.aspx?ShowAllComments=True#comments)**

URL: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/02/27/cats-select-best-foods.aspx