Pregnant cats need extra nutrients to support their growing kittens, and homemade food can be a nutritious option. As a cat parent, you already know that finding the right food for your feline friend can be tricky.
There are so many different brands and formulas on the market that it’s hard to know which is best for your cat and when you’re dealing with a pregnant cat, the stakes are even higher.
By making your own food, you can control exactly what goes into it and tailor it to your cat’s needs.
This post will share our favorite homemade recipes for pregnant cats. We hope you’ll find them helpful as you care for your special feline friend.
#1 – Sardine Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 can sardine in water
- ¼ cup steamed carrot (diced)
- 1 cooked egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons chicken broth
Preparation:
- Blend all ingredients together in a blender or food processor until the mixture is smooth.
- Serve right away or store in the fridge for up to four days.
#2 – Chicken and Beef Recipe
Ingredients:
- 400g cooked boneless chicken thigh
- 400g cooked beef
- ¼ cup grated zucchini
- 1 teaspoon fish oil
- 1 tablespoon chicken broth
Preparation:
- Combine the meat and zucchini in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
- Pour into a bowl and add the chicken broth and fish oil.
- Mix well to get a smooth consistency.
- Serve to your cat at room temperature and store the leftovers in the fridge for up to three days.
#3 – Beef Recipe
Ingredients:
- 400g beef
- 8g ground eggshell
- ¼ cup spinach
- 2 tablespoons of beef broth
Preparation:
- Chop the meat into small pieces and boil for a few minutes.
- Blend all ingredients together using a blender or food processor until a smooth consistency is achieved.
- Allow to cool and serve to your feline friend at room temperature.
- Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to four days.
Nutritional Needs for a Pregnant Cat
When you’re pregnant, your body needs extra nutrients to support your growing baby. The same is true for pregnant cats. A pregnant cat’s nutritional needs are even higher than those of a non-pregnant cat.
That’s because a pregnant cat has to support her own body and the bodies of her developing kittens. So what do pregnant cats need?
- Pregnant cats need more protein to help their bodies grow and develop. Proteins are necessary for the development of kitten cells. When choosing a protein source for your pregnant cat, look for one that is high in quality and easily digestible. Some good options include chicken, turkey, fish, and eggs.
- Calcium and phosphorus, two minerals that are important for bone development, are also needed in higher amounts during pregnancy. Good sources of calcium include dark leafy greens, while good sources of phosphorus include meat and poultry.
- Pregnant cats also need more fat in their diets. Fat is essential for kittens because it provides energy and helps develop their nervous systems. Some good options include fish oil and flaxseed oil.
- Pregnant cats need more vitamins and minerals, including folic acid, to support their rapidly growing bodies. Folic acid is vital for preventing congenital disabilities. You can find folic acid in leafy green vegetables such as broccoli and spinach.
- A pregnant cat needs about twice as much water as a non-pregnant cat, so be sure to provide fresh, clean water at all times.
What to Consider Before Making Homemade Food for Pregnant Cats
Before making homemade food for your pregnant cat, you should keep a few things in mind.
- Consult with your veterinarian to ensure this is the right decision for your cat.
- Be sure to use only fresh, high-quality ingredients in your recipes.
- Take care to cook the food properly to avoid food safety concerns.
Overfeeding in Pregnant Cats
Overfeeding a pregnant cat can be dangerous for the mother and her developing kittens.
Pregnant cats who overeat can become overweight, leading to health problems like diabetes and birthing difficulties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much to Feed a Pregnant Cat?
Pregnant cats need more food than non-pregnant cats, but exactly how much more depends on several factors. These include the cat’s weight, stage of pregnancy, and activity level.
Generally, pregnant cats should be fed about 2 to 4 times as much food as they usually eat. However, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian to determine the amount of food your pregnant cat needs.
When to Feed a Pregnant Cat?
Pregnant cats should be fed small meals several times throughout the day. This helps prevent them from becoming overloaded with nutrients and also helps keep their energy levels up.
What Should I do if my Pregnant Cat Stops Eating?
If your pregnant cat stops eating, contact your veterinarian right away. It is advisable to have your cat checked by a professional if you notice a loss of appetite, as this can indicate a severe health issue.
Can I Feed my Pregnant Cat Tuna?
You can feed your pregnant cat tuna, but it should not be a regular part of her diet. The high mercury content of tuna can be harmful to developing kittens.
When feeding tuna to a pregnant cat, offer canned tuna packed in water rather than oil. Talk to your veterinarian if you have concerns about feeding your pregnant cat tuna.
Can a Pregnant Cat Eat Kitten Food?
Yes, a pregnant cat can eat kitten food. Many veterinarians recommend that pregnant cats be fed a diet high in protein and calories to support their growing kittens.
Do Pregnant Cats Need Special Food?
Pregnant cats need more nutrients than non-pregnant cats but don’t necessarily need special food. In most cases, you can simply feed your pregnant cat the same food she was eating before she became pregnant.
However, there are some situations where a pregnant cat may need special food. For example, if your cat carries multiple kittens, she may need a higher-calorie diet to support their growth.
Or, if your cat has a medical condition that requires a special diet, she may need to continue eating that diet during pregnancy.
Consult your veterinarian about whether or not your pregnant cat needs special food.
Can a Pregnant Cat Eat Catnip?
No, pregnant cats should not eat catnip. Catnip can cause uterine contractions, which could lead to premature labor.
In Summary
Pregnant cats have special nutritional needs that should be met to ensure the health of the mother and her developing kittens.
When making home-cooked food for a pregnant cat, include plenty of protein, fat, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Always consult your veterinarian before changing your cat’s diet, especially during pregnancy.