The Hunter Within

By Roxanne Willems Snopek

Draped silently over the branch, the leopard watches and waits. This big cat wants dinner and we all know - whether feathered, furred or finned - dinner means only one thing: meat. It’s messy, but there’s no option. In the jungle, meat means survival and for good reason.

All cats, big and small, are obligate carnivores, meaning meat is not a preference; it’s a biological necessity. Their energy comes from protein instead of carbohydrates and unlike many other animals, cats are unable to manufacture protein components from other dietary elements. We humans are opportunistic omnivores - we can grab a bagel for a quick pick-me-up, or get all our dietary needs met in a bowl of vegetarian chili, or tuck into a thick steak. Our body can use it all. Not so for cats. In fact, cats on protein-poor diets can suffer serious health problems. Insufficient levels of the amino acids taurine and carnitine are common, especially when cats rely on dog food. Blindness, retinal degeneration and heart disease can occur as a result of taurine deficiency. Does this mean Kitty can’t snack from Fido’s dish? If it’s once a week, sure but more often can spell trouble.

It’s not hard to see the meat-lover beneath even the most docile feline facade. The basic physical and emotional structure of cats hasn’t changed. They’re still built for power, speed, agility, strength and have all the necessary tools to chase, kill and consume prey.

While our domestic feline friends should eat only high quality commercial cat food, if given half a chance they'll still be avid – if vicarious – hunters. Watch any cat at a window, chasing after a ball, even following TV action: the wild nature is still close to the surface. A note to outdoor cat owners: cats who kill rodents and birds are likely to pick up parasites. Ask your veterinarian about the deworming medication most suitable to your cat's needs.

Domestic cats might have more civilized table manners and recreational activities than their wild cousins, but that tidy bowl of kibble must still contain the protein essential to satisfy the hunter within.

Article courtesy of Suite101.com.