Do cats eat meat and who? - briefly
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require a diet primarily composed of meat to thrive, and they typically hunt small animals like mice, birds, and insects.
Do cats eat meat and who? - in detail
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their diet must primarily consist of meat to meet their nutritional needs. Unlike omnivores or herbivores, cats rely on nutrients found exclusively in animal tissues, such as taurine, arachidonic acid, and vitamin A, which they cannot synthesize sufficiently on their own. In the wild, cats hunt and consume small prey, including rodents, birds, insects, and occasionally fish. Domestic cats retain these dietary requirements, even though they are often provided with commercial cat food. High-quality cat food is formulated to mimic the nutrient profile of their natural prey, ensuring they receive essential proteins, fats, and vitamins. Feeding cats a vegetarian or vegan diet can lead to severe health issues, as they cannot thrive without animal-derived nutrients. Historically, cats’ carnivorous nature has shaped their anatomy and behavior, including sharp teeth for tearing flesh, a short digestive tract optimized for processing meat, and a strong hunting instinct. While cats may occasionally eat small amounts of plant matter, such as grass, this behavior is typically for aiding digestion rather than nutritional purposes. Therefore, meat is not just a preference for cats but a biological necessity for their survival and well-being.