Cats are obligate carnivores with specific nutritional requirements that differ fundamentally from humans and dogs; feeding appropriate diets is a basic welfare obligation.
Providing nutritionally appropriate food is a fundamental welfare obligation for cat owners. Cats evolved as strict carnivores and their metabolism reflects this: they cannot synthesise taurine (essential for heart and eye function), cannot convert plant-based vitamin A precursors to the active form, and have a reduced ability to digest carbohydrates efficiently. High-carbohydrate dry diets are associated with obesity, diabetes, and urinary tract disease. The growing market for vegetarian and vegan cat foods raises serious welfare concerns unless comprehensive supplementation is provided and demonstrated effective. Wet food that mirrors the moisture content of prey provides better hydration and reduced urinary disease risk.