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Discover why cats need meat in their diet and how animal protein provides the essential nutrients they need to thrive.
Cats need meat because they are obligate carnivores. This means their bodies are designed to get essential nutrients from animal-based ingredients, making protein an important part of their diet.
Unlike humans, cats rely on nutrients naturally found in meat and fish to support their everyday health and wellbeing.
Yes, cats are obligate carnivores. This means they depend on animal-based ingredients to obtain nutrients that are essential for their health.
While some animals can get everything they need from a wider variety of foods, cats have specific nutritional requirements that are most naturally met through meat and fish. That’s why animal protein plays such an important role in a healthy feline diet.
An obligate carnivore is an animal that depends on animal protein for key nutrients.
Cats need nutrients such as:
Taurine is an essential amino acid that supports normal heart function, vision and overall wellbeing. Cats cannot produce enough taurine themselves, so they need to obtain it through their diet.
Arginine helps the body process and remove waste products. Cats require a regular supply of this amino acid from animal-based ingredients to support normal bodily functions.
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein and help support muscle maintenance, growth and everyday health. Cats rely on animal protein to provide the amino acids they need.
These nutrients occur naturally in meat and fish, which is why animal-based ingredients are such an important part of a cat’s diet.
Protein helps support:
Because cats naturally rely on animal protein, it’s important that their diet is built around it.
Cats are naturally drawn to meat and fish because that’s what their bodies are designed to eat.
Protein-rich ingredients such as chicken, tuna and salmon provide the nutrition cats need while also delivering the flavours they love.
That’s why high-quality animal protein is at the heart of every Encore recipe. If you’re looking for protein-rich meals inspired by your cat’s natural diet, explore our range of products here.
Understanding that cats are obligate carnivores helps explain why protein is so important in feline nutrition. By choosing recipes rich in high-quality animal protein, you’re supporting your cat’s natural needs at every mealtime.
