1. Understanding Nutrient Content: Beyond the Surface**

Cat food labels often list percentages of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, but these are typically based on the “as-fed” basis, which includes moisture. To accurately compare foods, especially dry vs. wet, you need to convert these values to a dry matter basis (DMB). This accounts for moisture content and provides a clearer picture of the actual nutrient profile.

• How to Calculate Carbohydrates:
  Subtracting moisture, protein, fat, fiber, and ash from 100 provides an estimate of carbohydrates. For example, if a dry food has 8% moisture, 10% protein, 5% fat, and 2% fiber, the remaining 75% would be carbohydrates (though this is an approximation). Using tools like the Dry Matter Conversion Tool for quick calculations can help.

Pro Tip: Effective Natural Remedies for Common Pet Health Issues

1. Skin Care: From Itchiness to Infections

Pets’ skin is their largest organ, making it vulnerable to allergies, infections, and parasites. Natural remedies can soothe irritation and promote healing:

• Aloe Vera: A powerhouse for skin health, aloe vera reduces inflammation, soothes burns, and treats fungal infections. Apply fresh gel directly to affected areas or mix with a small amount of coconut oil.
• Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, turmeric can be mixed with water to form a paste for topical application on wounds or infections.
• Neem Oil: A natural antiseptic, neem oil helps combat fleas, mites, and bacterial infections. Dilute with almond or jojoba oil and apply to the skin or use in baths.
• Lavender & Coconut Oil: These mild essential oils can soothe inflamed skin. Mix a few drops of lavender oil with coconut oil and apply to irritated patches.
• Sea Salt & Herbal Teas: A spray made from unrefined sea salt, herbal tea, and aloe vera can treat fungal infections or dry skin.

Pro Tip: Always patch-test new remedies and consult your vet if symptoms persist or worsen.

As a cat lover and advocate for natural holistic health, I’ve often found myself at odds with mainstream pet food advice. In particular, the debate around raw cat food has been contentious, with some claiming it’s a recipe for disaster and others swearing by its benefits. As someone who’s spent years researching and experimenting with raw diets for my own feline friend, I’m here to give you a balanced look at what really works – and what doesn’t.

1. Recognize Common Toxins: What’s Dangerous for Cats?

Cats are particularly sensitive to many substances due to their small size and unique metabolism. Here are some common toxins to avoid:

• Human Foods: Onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol can be deadly. Even small amounts may cause kidney failure or gastrointestinal distress.
• Medications: Over-the-counter drugs like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin are toxic. Prescription medications, antidepressants, and cold remedies should never be given to cats without veterinary guidance.
• Household Items: Antifreeze, bleach, detergents, and cleaning products are highly poisonous. Even a sip can be fatal.
• Plants: Lilies, tulips, sago palms, azaleas, and chrysanthemums are toxic. Some plants, like marijuana, can cause severe neurological issues.
• Pest Control Products: Many flea treatments, rodent baits, and insecticides are harmful to cats. Always use pet-safe alternatives.

Pro Tip: Store all toxic substances in secure cabinets or containers out of reach. Keep your cat away from areas where chemicals are used or stored.

As a cat enthusiast and advocate for holistic feline care, I’ve always been fascinated by the nutritional benefits of raw foods for cats. From improving digestion to boosting immunity, a diet rich in raw nutrients can have a transformative impact on your feline friend’s overall health and wellbeing.

What is Raw Cat Food?

Raw cat food is a diet made up of uncooked, unprocessed animal tissues, such as meat, organs, and bones. The idea behind raw feeding is to mimic the natural diet that cats would have in the wild, providing them with all the necessary nutrients for optimal health.

Introduction

As a cat parent, I’m constantly on the lookout for ways to keep my feline friend happy and healthy. One approach that has gained popularity in recent years is raw feeding - the idea of feeding your cat a diet rich in whole foods, unprocessed and uncooked. But what exactly does this mean, and how can it benefit your cat? In this post, we’ll explore the world of raw feeding, examining its benefits, risks, and practical tips for making it work.

Fighting Allergies and Infections

A Holistic Approach to Healing

Ask Ariel’s product line—ranging from probiotics and digestive enzymes to joint support and targeted therapies—addresses a wide spectrum of pet health concerns. Many pet owners have shared how combining these supplements with dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments, and veterinary guidance has led to long-term improvements.

Pets like Rocket, a pit bull with lifelong allergies, and Graydon, a dog battling yeast overgrowth from Mayfly bites, have found relief through Ask Ariel’s AllerEze, Power Probiotic, and K9 Yeast Defense. These products have not only reduced itching and discomfort but also minimized the need for frequent vet visits and costly treatments.

The Popularity of Raw Food Diets

Raw food diets, often composed of uncooked meat, bones, and organ meats, are marketed as a way to mimic a pet’s natural diet. Advocates claim these diets can improve digestion, boost energy levels, and enhance overall vitality. For some, the appeal lies in the idea of feeding pets “whole foods” free from processed ingredients.

The Evidence Gap: What Research Tells Us

A 2018 study published in Veterinary Evidence highlighted a critical issue: there is a severe lack of high-quality research on the health effects of raw food diets for cats and dogs. Most existing studies focus on food safety risks, such as bacterial contamination (e.g., Salmonella and E. coli), rather than long-term health outcomes. Recent analyses have shed more light on this issue:

Why Transition Your Cat to a Better Diet?

Dry food often contains high levels of carbohydrates, artificial additives, and minimal moisture. These ingredients can contribute to:

• Obesity (dry food is calorie-dense but low in satiety).
• Kidney and urinary tract issues (due to low water content).
• Dental problems (many dry foods are hard and abrasive).
• Nutritional imbalances (lack of essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus).

Canned food and homemade diets, on the other hand, provide higher moisture content, better nutrient profiles, and greater control over your cat’s diet.

Community cats—those who live outdoors, often in colonies—play a vital role in urban ecosystems, yet they face unique challenges. From food scarcity to health issues, these cats rely on the kindness of caregivers and programs designed to support them. If you’re wondering how to help, here’s a comprehensive guide to cat food donations, community cat programs, and the importance of TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) in ensuring their well-being.

How to Support Cat Food Donations

Feeding community cats is a cornerstone of their care, but it can be costly and time-consuming. Here are practical ways to contribute: