Most cat owners don’t know what to feed their pets – as quiz reveals how much you really know
HOW much of a purrfect cat expert are you? Take this quiz to find out.
Users can test their knowledge on all things cat to see if they really know their tails from their whiskers.
From the food they should eat to what their average weight should be, cat lovers will be ‘feline’ either on top of a tree or like a cat’s litter tray by the end.
It comes after a poll of 1,000 cat owners found 17 per cent don’t know what their cat should be eating – or how much (23 per cent).
Around one in three (29 per cent) admit they don’t know how much their cat should weigh, with 63 per cent only somewhat confident in knowing about their pet’s overall health.
Nutritionist Sarah McNamara from cat food brand Harringtons, which commissioned the research, said: “Understanding your cat’s nutritional needs is essential for a long and happy life.
“Proper nutrition can prevent health issues like obesity, diabetes, and digestive problems.
“Choosing a balanced diet that aligns with your cat’s specific needs can improve their energy levels and overall quality of life.
“Cats are obligate carnivores and need high-quality, digestible protein to thrive.
“It’s a good exercise when choosing your cat food in the supermarket to check the ingredients list for a high meat content and that the protein in the recipe comes entirely from animals.
“By paying close attention to meaty ingredients, and portion control, owners can ensure their pets stay healthy and active for years to come.”
The research also found 27 per cent aren’t sure how active their cat should be, and 24 per cent don’t know what – if any – supplements should be provided.
But a huge 95 per cent believe the choice of food is important to their cat’s overall health and wellbeing.
Although 32 per cent have given food to their cat without being totally confident they should really be eating it.
These include cheese (39 per cent), bacon (22 per cent) and even pieces of potato (13 per cent).
TOP 10 CAT HEALTH ATTRIBUTES OWNERS AREN’T SURE ABOUT:
1. How my cat’s gums should look
2. What signs of illness to look out for
3. How much my cat should weigh
4. Nutrients my cat needs
5. What various movements mean from my cat (e.g. tail in the air)
6. How active my cat should be
7. How my cat’s breath should smell
8. How often to clean my cat’s claws
9. What supplements, if any, my cat should have
10. How much my cat should be eating
It also emerged 28 per cent of the cat owners polled currently have worries about their pet’s physical health.
While 23 per cent confess to stressing about the mental health of their beloved feline, according to the OnePoll.com data.
On average, adults who have cats take them to the vet three times a year, with symptoms including having gone off their food (32 per cent) or being overly sleepy (19 per cent).
A spokesperson for Harringtons, added: “Cats are very mysterious creatures, which is why they have made such popular pets for thousands of years.
“They often live by their own strange cycles, and some days will seem to go ages without food or play, then suddenly wolf down bowls, or sleep for 12 hours straight.”
“It can be hard to know for sure if your cat is really unwell, but it’s always best to err on the side of caution, particularly when it comes to what you feed them.”