Dear Ms. Kitty: Adopt healthy diet choices for your pet - Colorado Springs Gazette

Dear Ms. Kitty,

My family recently adopted a pair of kittens from a local rescue group. It's been awhile since we've had younger cats, so we were wondering what kind of food would be best to make sure they get the proper nutrition they need. We've heard a lot about the new grain-free and raw diets. What do you suggest? - Necessity for Nutrition

Dear Necessity,

While there is a wide variety of choices when it comes to diets for your kittens, in the end the best thing you can do is educate yourself so you are able to find the option that best fits your budget and lifestyle and their taste preference and health requirements. It's important to remember that cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require a high-protein (meat) diet. Additionally, cats don't have the capability to chew and digest other food sources such as vegetables and fruits because of their shorter digestive tract, liver structure and jaw construction. One exception to the vegetable rule is canned pumpkin, which is a good source of nutrition and fiber.

Veterinarians and pet guardians widely disagree when it comes to all-wet or all-dry food diets and raw or grain-free diets. So here are some essential items to consider when making the best decision for your cats.

The first is protein content. The higher the protein the better, which means the first ingredient in any food choice should be meat, preferably chicken, turkey or fish, followed by eggs. Raw diets such as Rad Cat (radfood.com) come in lamb, turkey and chicken. Some pet guardians swear by this choice as a cure for chronic stomach issues. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, it's important to avoid meat byproducts and undetermined animal fats, which can contain toxins and chemicals, although 10 percent to 15 perfect fat content is necessary.

When it comes to grains and carbohydrates, the Association of American Feed Control Officials reminds us that cats have little need for carbohydrates and lack the ability to convert carbs to energy. Inspect carefully as some grain-free foods substitute potatoes as starchy fillers. Studies have shown that many cats are gluten-intolerant or allergic to wheat. However, if your cat prefers a food that includes grain - and it might since the gluten tastes good - then rice is an option. Rice bran provides the fiber needed to ensure your kitty's intestinal system works well.

As you are making your decision on pet food, other ingredients to avoid include corn, soy, food coloring, cellulose, psyllium and guar gums, and carrageenan. You also should consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your kittens are getting the proper amounts of vitamins A and B.

No matter your choice of diet, adding a digestive enzyme or probiotic, such as FortiFlora, is recommended by many holistic veterinarian practitioners. And remember to transition your kittens slowly to any new diet to allow their digestive systems time to adjust and to prevent litter box issues.

For more information on healthy pet food choices, check out truthaboutpetfood.com and aafco.org.

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Do you have question? Email AskingMsKitty@gmail.com and your question might be featured. Albertson co-manages Happy Cats Haven at 1412 S. 21st St. Learn more at happycatshaven.org or call 635-5000.