The Feline Nutrition Foundation, established in 2008, has been a pivotal organization dedicated to educating pet parents about the profound benefits of raw meat diets for felines. Its mission extended to advocating for a fundamental shift in how cats are fed, moving away from processed foods towards a diet aligned with their evolutionary needs. This comprehensive archive, now hosted by Hare Today, preserves the wealth of science-backed information and insights gathered by the Foundation over years of dedicated research and outreach. The Foundation’s approach was characterized by an open mind, recognizing that multiple pathways can lead to optimal feline health and well-being.
The Feline Nutrition Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit, was officially created in 2011 to further its educational and outreach endeavors. It meticulously gathered information from a diverse range of sources, including veterinarians, researchers, seasoned raw diet experts, authors, and, crucially, pet parents who sought the very best for their feline companions. A core tenet of the Foundation’s philosophy was to redefine the public’s perception of cat food, steering it back to what cats naturally evolved to eat rather than relying on the over-processed by-products of human food production. As founder Margaret Gates aptly stated, “When it comes to cat food, everything you thought you knew could very well be wrong.” For over a decade, the Feline Nutrition Foundation has strived to rectify these misconceptions.
This archive represents a significant contribution to feline nutrition knowledge, and its preservation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of numerous individuals. Hare Today is honored to host this invaluable resource, aligning with its own Mission to promote species-appropriate diets for domestic animals, including cats.
Understanding Your Cat’s Nutritional Needs
Cats, by their very nature, are obligate carnivores. This means their biological and evolutionary makeup dictates a diet primarily composed of raw meat, essential fats, and vital nutrients found in organs and edible bones. The shift towards processed, grain-heavy, and carbohydrate-laden cat foods over the past several decades has, unfortunately, contributed to a rise in diet-related diseases among felines. Recognizing and addressing this discrepancy is crucial for ensuring the long-term health and vitality of our feline companions.
The Dangers of Dry Cat Food
A significant step towards improving feline health is the removal of dry food from their diet. Regardless of its marketing (premium, prescription, or “natural”), dry cat food is fundamentally detrimental to a cat’s well-being. Its manufacturing process necessitates a high content of starch and carbohydrates, which displace the vital meat-derived proteins and fats essential for an obligate carnivore. This carb-laden composition makes dry food an unsuitable and harmful choice for cats, impacting their overall health.
Embracing a Raw Diet
For many cat owners, the decision to switch to a raw cat food diet represents a significant, yet empowering, shift in thinking about cat nutrition. This change not only offers peace of mind by eliminating mystery ingredients and concerns about “by-products” but also simplifies the pet food shopping experience. Making homemade cat food is surprisingly accessible, demystifying the process and allowing owners to take direct control over their cat’s nutrition.
The Myth of the “Vegan Cat”
While the reasons for human vegetarianism and veganism are often rooted in admirable principles of health and animal welfare, extending these choices to cats, who are obligate carnivores, is a dangerous path. Attempting to convert a cat to a vegan diet inflicts passive cruelty, going against their fundamental biological needs and potentially leading to severe health consequences. It is imperative to respect and uphold the true dietary nature of cats.
Dental Health and Diet
The long-held belief that commercial dry diets promote dental health in cats is a misconception. Despite veterinarian recommendations, feeding dry kibble can paradoxically lead to dental issues such as tartar buildup, inflamed gums, and the need for professional dental cleanings. This highlights that a cat’s biology as a true, obligate carnivore remains unchanged, regardless of their living environment.
Nutritional Needs of Senior Cats
As cats age, their nutritional requirements evolve. The conventional advice to feed senior cats reduced-energy “senior” diets must be questioned. Older cats often require higher protein intake to prevent the loss of lean body mass and muscle wasting associated with aging. Understanding these changing needs is vital for maintaining the health and well-being of geriatric felines.
Feline Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Feline Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a common cause of chronic vomiting and diarrhea in cats. It’s a complex group of conditions characterized by uncontrolled intestinal inflammation, potentially triggered by a combination of dietary factors, environmental influences, gut microflora imbalances, and immune system dysregulation in susceptible cats. Addressing IBD often requires a multifaceted approach to treatment.
The Feline Nutrition Foundation’s archive provides a wealth of information for cat owners seeking to provide the best possible nutrition for their pets. By understanding the science-backed principles of feline dietary needs, owners can make informed decisions that contribute to a healthier, happier life for their cats.
