Cat Food & Nutrition
Cats are strict obligate carnivores — unlike dogs, they cannot synthesize certain essential nutrients such as taurine and arachidonic acid from plant sources and must obtain them from animal-based proteins. Feeding a diet that meets these biological requirements at each life stage is fundamental to feline health.
About This Section
Cat nutrition guides on FaunaHub cover the macronutrient requirements of cats at kitten, adult, and senior life stages, the debate around wet versus dry food and its impact on hydration and urinary health, understanding AAFCO nutritional adequacy statements on pet food labels, and a list of foods that are dangerous or toxic to cats — including onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, xylitol, alcohol, raw dough, and many common household plants.
Taurine deficiency in cats causes dilated cardiomyopathy and retinal degeneration — conditions that were historically common before the dietary requirement was established. All commercially prepared cat foods sold in regulated markets must now meet minimum taurine standards, but homemade diets require careful formulation to meet this and other critical requirements.
Detailed feeding guides and life-stage nutrition breakdowns are in development. For dietary changes or concerns about your cat's weight or digestion, consult a licensed veterinarian.