| Nutrition A-Z Sometimes the language used to describe feline health and nutrition can seem a little confusing. To help make feeding and nutritional advice clear, we have compiled this simple encyclopaedia of commonly used terms. To see a similar glossary of health terms click here.Select term alphabetically, or by scrolling the list. To read a description, click on the term selected. When appropriate, links to further reading are supplied. Allergies True cases of food allergy are unusual and involve a reaction to often only tiny amounts of an ingredient in a particular food, which triggers an allergic inflammatory reaction. In severe cases this can affect the whole body, causing diarrhoea, itchy and damaged skin, and respiratory problems. If your cat shows signs of such a reaction seek veterinary advice to help identify which food is responsible. Generally your vet will undertake a food elimination trial to try to work out the underlying cause of the allergic reaction and may suggest long-term changes in diet, including a specially formulated veterinary recommended diet, to help manage the condition.
Food Allergies
Special Diets Amino Acids The basic components of proteins. Many of the 20 standard amino acids are called essential amino acids because they cannot be synthesised from other compounds in the body and must therefore be obtained from food. Amino acids support the growth and development of all body tissues. Cats are dependent on proteins, and deficiencies in certain (essential) types can result in health problems.
Getting the Balance Right Antibodies Part of the body's natural defence systems, produced to combat infections and invading substances recognised as not belonging to the body, such as viruses and bacteria. On occasion, antibodies can be produced inappropriately by the body, for example in response to a protein in food, resulting in an allergic reaction. Antioxidants Literally meaning 'against oxidation', antioxidants strengthen your cat's immune system, destroying free radicals and keeping the body cells in balance. A good example is vitamin E.
Getting the Balance Right Ash A term commonly found in pet food labelling to describe the amount of minerals in the product. B-Complex Vitamins Vitamin B is a complex of nine water-soluble vitamins. The name arises because it was once considered a single vitamin, much like Vitamin C or Vitamin D, but later research has since shown it is in fact a complex of chemically distinct vitamins that happen to often coexist in the same foods; the term B-Complex or B Vitamins is commonly used. B Vitamins often work together to deliver a number of health benefits including bolstering the metabolism, maintaining healthy skin and muscle tone, enhancing immune and nervous system functions and promoting cell growth and division. They also could help fight cardiovascular disease. Examples of B-complex vitamins include Folic Acid, Riboflavin, Niacin and Biotin.
Getting the Balance Right Calcium Pantothenate A B-Complex vitamin also known as Pantothenic acid. It occurs in all body tissues and all forms of living tissues. As a result, deficiencies in this vitamin are extremely rare. Pantothenic acid is necessary for the proper utilisation of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Carbohydrates Energy containing plant or vegetable-based nutrients ranging from simple sugars (that release their energy quickly) to more complex structures including the woody parts of cereals such as cellulose (that release energy slowly). Nutritionally and metabolically, the most important carbohydrates are glucose, fructose and galactose. Manufactured cat foods contain these sugars and starches which cats use as sources of energy. This type of food is also a useful source of fibre, supporting a healthy bowel.
Getting the Balance Right Choline Chloride A B-Complex vitamin necessary for proper liver function and cellular metabolism. Choline is also an integral part of cellular membranes. It is widespread in food sources, such as meat, legumes, dairy products and whole grains. Colostrum The first milk produced after birth by a nursing cat, containing important antibodies that help protect kittens from infections.
Feeding During Pregnancy and Nursing Enzymes Important components of many cellular functions, vital for the break down of food into component nutrients that can then be absorbed by the body. Fats An essential part of pet diets and an important source of energy, providing 2.25 times the energy of protein or carbohydrate. Fats provide important fatty acids and act as a carrier for fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E and K. Some fats are essential in the diet; their function ranges from aiding in the transmission of nerve impulses to formation of bile salts (for proper digestion and absorption) and regulating the body temperature. Fats also improve the taste and digestibility of food. Without an appropriate intake of fat, skin and coat become unhealthy, and a severe deficiency can lead to retarded growth, weight loss and a susceptibility to infection.
Getting the Balance Right Ferrous Sulphate An important source of iron in many manufactured cat foods that supports haemoglobin formation and therefore oxygen transportation in the bloodstream. Fish Fish is a good source of protein and is enjoyed by many cats. Some types of fish have an enzyme that destroys the vitamin thiamine (Vitamin B1) and cats fed a diet high in raw fish have been known to develop a thiamine deficiency. Thiamine deficiency causes severe neurological problems progressing in some cases to seizures. Manufactured cat foods contain appropriate levels of added thiamine. Fish Meal An excellent source of high quality protein, essential amino acids, fat, calcium, phosphorous and other minerals. Free Radicals Reactive substances created in the body during normal metabolism – but often triggered to extreme by ageing and stress – that damage other healthy cells. Controlled by antioxidants in the body and diet. Glucose A simple sugar, glucose is the form of carbohydrate found circulating in the bloodstream and is the primary form of carbohydrate used by the body's cells for energy. When transported around your cat's body, some glucose goes directly to fuel brain cells while the rest makes its way to the liver and muscles (where it is stored as glycogen) and to fat cells (where it is stored as fat). Glycogen is an auxiliary energy source, tapped and converted back into glucose when there is a need for energy. Intolerances Some animals may be unable to 'tolerate' a particular substance (usually a foodstuff) because their own individual system cannot cope with it. An intolerance is a type of adverse reaction that does not involve the immune system. Typical signs of an intolerance include digestive upset and skin problems. Food allergies differ from intolerances because they involve the immune system.
Special Diets Lactose A sugar found in milk that a cat's metabolism finds difficult to digest. Never feed a cat cow's milk for this reason, as it may cause diarrhoea. Choose a manufactured cat milk without lactose. Lipids Lipids are more commonly synonymous with the word 'fats' when speaking in terms of diet, and though all fats are lipids, not all lipids are fats. Lipids are essential for numerous functions within the body, including energy storage, cell membrane development, and as components of hormones and vitamins. Abnormal levels of certain lipids, particularly cholesterol and trans-fatty acids, are risk factors for heart and other diseases in humans. L-lysine & D,L-methionine Key amino acids that promote and maintain muscles as well as supporting a strong, healthy immune system. Manganese Sulphate An important source of the mineral manganese in many manufactured cat foods that supports proper glucose utilisation in the body. Metabolism The sum of all basic physical and chemical bodily processes that keep a body healthy and functioning. Minerals Like humans, cats require the right balance of minerals of all kinds to maintain body structures and vital functions. Minerals balance body fluids, support metabolic processes and are vital building blocks. Key minerals include calcium and phosphorous for bones and teeth, iron for the blood, manganese and potassium. Manufactured complete cat foods are carefully formulated to provide 100% of your pet's mineral requirements. Mineral imbalances can be extremely dangerous.
Getting the Balance Right Niacin An important B-complex vitamin that helps in enzyme formation and is necessary for proper absorption of carbohydrates, protein and lipids. Obesity Approximately one in three cats in the UK is overweight or obese. Overfeeding and lack of exercise are the principle causes. Encouraging the cat to play, feeding portion-controlled meals and cutting out food treats (including milk) will help most cats lose weight. A light diet can also make a difference. Weight loss should be gradual and all diets supervised by your veterinary surgeon. Never starve your cat or restrict their diet without veterinary advice.
If Your Cat Is Overweight Obligate Carnivore A cat, unlike a dog, is an obligate carnivore, meaning that is an animal that by its genetic make up must eat meat in order to survive. Obligate carnivores may eat other foods, such as vegetables, grains, or fruit, but they must eat meat as the main source of their nutrients. A vegetarian diet is unnatural and dangerous.
Getting the Balance Right Omega Fatty Acids Omega 3, 6, and 9 polyunsaturated fatty acids support joint health, immune system function, skin and coat health, and regulate metabolic functions and inflammatory processes. The most widely used source in cat food is oily fish. Potassium Chloride An important source of potassium and chlorine in manufactured cat food that helps maintain fluid balance and supports enzyme, muscle and nerve functions. Prebiotics Animals get the most out of their food by transforming it into energy, releasing essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients, and fuelling the body. In the large intestine 'friendly' bacteria help the body break down food, aiding the proper absorption of these nutrients, and fighting off harmful bacteria. A prebiotic is the term used to describe a food component that nourishes the friendly bacteria that may help to create a healthy balance in the gut and promote long-term health and wellbeing. Prebiotics are commonly included in manufactured pet foods. Probiotics Live micro-organisms that may benefit a host animal by improving the balance of the intestinal microflora. The term 'Probiotic' is commonly used to refer to 'good' bacteria that an animal needs in the body in order to maintain a healthy immune system and good digestion. Proteins Proteins are the building blocks of the body, essential for growth and repair. Proteins are responsible for releasing energy and forming muscle, skin, hair, antibodies, enzymes, blood clots, haemoglobin and hormones. Cats meet most of their energy needs through protein and require larger quantities than dogs, 25-40% of their total diet. Good sources include poultry, fish, beef, liver and lamb.
Getting the Balance Right Riboflavin An essential B-complex vitamin, a key component of enzyme systems. Salt A source of sodium and chloride regulating proper blood pH levels, water balance and kidney functions. Also contributes to taste and appetite appeal. Over-intake can be dangerous, as in humans. Selenium Selenium is a vital antioxidant mineral that inhibits the oxidation of lipids, protects the immune system and enhances the uptake of vitamin E. Taurine An essential amino acid that is vital for a healthy heart and vision, it is particularly important for cats, who are unable to produce it themselves. Manufactured complete cat foods are carefully formulated to contain the precise amount of taurine that cats and kittens require.
Getting the Balance Right Vitamin C Vitamin C supports the production of collagen, is important for normal bone formation and provides protection against damaging free radicals that can degrade connective tissue. Vitamin E Vitamin E helps modulate free radical processes in the body. It provides antioxidant support, promotes improved circulation, enhances the immune system and supports cardiovascular function. Vitamins Organic nutrients required by the body for a successful metabolism. Vitamins are the components of, or catalysts for, body enzyme reactions. Vitamins also support a range of other body functions, including the immune system, eyesight, bone structure, muscles and joints, as well as the production of antioxidants. There are two types of vitamins, fat-soluble (A, D, E, K), and water-soluble (B and C). The fat-soluble vitamins will be stored in the body's fat tissues while water-soluble vitamins will be excreted in the urine. Like minerals, vitamins must be carefully balanced; excess of some are harmful, while a deficiency in others can be equally damaging.
Getting the Balance Right Water The most important of all substances, responsible for transporting nutrients around the body, removing waste in the form of urine and helping with chemical reactions and digestion. The amount of water needed depends on several factors including environmental temperature, exercise levels and whether the cat is eating wet or dry food. A bowl of fresh, clean water should always be available.
Getting the Balance Right |