ALL ABOUT MEOWS!

Hello, I am Moumita, a proud cat parent with over 8 years of experience. In the beginning, like most pet parents, I fed my cats packaged dry and wet food for the first two years of their lives. However, after one of my cats vomited blood, I began researching the ingredients in commercial pet food. This journey led me to realize the hidden dangers in many of these products (including the best ones!). Six years later, I now meal prep for all of my 17 cats and 71 dogs (6 at home and 65 at the farm). I also run two businesses: Pookies For Pets and Mother Of Strays, where we provide all-natural food options for pets and street animals. Through my experiences and research, I've gained a deep understanding of the nutritional needs of our furry friends, and I’m excited to share my knowledge with you in this document. My goal is to make your meal prepping for your pets as easy as "peasy lemon squeezy!"

The Benefits of Meal Prepping & Feeding Real Food

Cats require a meat-based diet to thrive. Their bodies are specifically designed to digest animal proteins, and feeding them real, fresh food provides them with the vital nutrients they need for optimal health. While the cost of fresh food may seem like a pinch to your wallet upfront, it can actually save you thousands in vet bills over the long term. By providing them with a balanced, natural diet, you significantly reduce the risk of chronic health issues and increase their lifespan. Fresh, high-quality meals keep their organs in the best possible condition and support their natural instincts. Think about it – you wouldn’t survive on a diet of premium biscuits and canned food for your entire life, so why should your cats? It's time to move away from processed foods and think about their nutrition in a holistic way. A nutritious, well-prepared meal plan is one of the best investments you can make in your pet’s health!

The Importance of Meat/Animal Protein for Overall Health

As obligate carnivores, cats rely on meat for nearly all their nutritional needs. Their digestive systems are specially designed to break down and absorb nutrients found in animal-based foods, making meat a crucial part of their diet. Unlike omnivores or herbivores, cats are unable to thrive on plant-based proteins, and they need specific nutrients that only animals can provide—such as taurine, arachidonic acid, and certain vitamins (like vitamin A and D).

Meat also provides high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and maintaining overall bodily functions. This protein is rich in amino acids, particularly essential ones that the cat's body cannot produce on its own, such as taurine. Without enough of these animal-derived nutrients, a cat’s health can deteriorate over time, leading to issues like heart disease, vision problems, and organ failure.

Rotating Meats to Broaden Nutritional Benefits & Allergen Resistance

Rotating different animal proteins, such as chicken, lamb, beef, turkey, and fish, not only provides a variety of essential nutrients, but also helps protect your cat from developing food sensitivities or allergies. Just as with humans, a cat’s immune system can become overexposed to a single protein source if it is fed repeatedly, increasing the risk of allergic reactions, gastrointestinal distress, or skin issues. By varying the meats in your cat’s diet, you expose them to a broader spectrum of amino acids, fatty acids, and vitamins, supporting their immune system and overall health.

Additionally, rotating meats can help prevent the buildup of food sensitivities over time, as your cat’s body isn’t constantly exposed to one specific protein. This dietary rotation is an effective strategy to keep your cat’s immune system strong and its digestion in top shape, helping ensure they remain healthy and active for years to come.

Key Ingredients Needed in a Cat’s Everyday Diet

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are specifically designed to thrive on a diet rich in animal-based nutrients. Below are the key ingredients that should make up their daily diet, with suggested percentages, options, and why each is important for their overall health:

1. Protein (70-80% of their diet)

• Sources: Chicken, Fish, Lamb, Eggs

• Protein is the cornerstone of a cat’s diet. It’s essential for muscle development, tissue repair, and overall cellular function. Cats require high-quality animal-based proteins because their bodies need specific amino acids found only in animal tissues. The variety of meats also provides a broad spectrum of amino acids and fatty acids, which are crucial for keeping them in peak condition.

• Rotating meats like chicken, fish, lamb, and others helps avoid overexposure to one specific protein and broadens their resistance to potential allergens. For example, fish may cause some cats to develop sensitivities if fed too frequently, so rotating proteins ensures a balanced nutrient intake.

2. Taurine (Essential Amino Acid)

• Sources: Meat, Heart, Liver (from different animals)

• Taurine is an essential amino acid that cats cannot produce on their own, and they need it in significant amounts for cardiovascular health, vision, and reproductive health. It is found abundantly in meat, especially in organs like heart and liver. Ensuring your cat gets enough taurine will help prevent heart disease and vision problems, two conditions that can arise from taurine deficiency.

3. Healthy Fats (10-15% of their diet)

• Sources: Omega 3 & 6 – Chicken fat, Sardines, Flaxseeds, Fish oil

• Fat is crucial for energy, skin and coat health, and hormone regulation. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids play important roles in maintaining a cat’s immune system and controlling inflammation. Chicken fat, sardines, and fish oil are excellent sources of these essential fatty acids, while flaxseeds can be added as a plant-based source of Omega-3. Healthy fats also provide essential fatty acids that your cat’s body needs for coat maintenance and skin health.

4. Vitamins

• Vitamin A (Fat-Soluble)

• Sources: Liver (beef, chicken, etc.)

• Vitamin A is essential for good vision, immune function, and skin health. Cats cannot convert beta-carotene from plants into vitamin A like humans can, so they rely on animal sources like liver to meet this requirement.

• Vitamin B Complex

• Sources: Fish, Eggs, Meat

• B vitamins, particularly B1 (Thiamine), B6 (Pyridoxine), and B12 (Cobalamin), are vital for a cat’s energy metabolism, nervous system health, and red blood cell production. These vitamins are abundant in meat, fish, and eggs.

• Vitamin D (Fat-Soluble)

• Sources: Animal fat & Eggs

• Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption, which plays a key role in bone health. Since cats cannot synthesize vitamin D from sunlight like humans, they must get it from animal fat and eggs.

5. Minerals

• Calcium (Ca) & Phosphorus (P)

• Sources: Bone meal, Eggshells

• Calcium and phosphorus are important for strong bones and teeth, as well as proper muscle function. These minerals are found in bones, and adding bone meal or crushed eggshells to their meals is a great way to ensure they get adequate amounts.

• Zinc & Iron

• Sources: Red Meat, Liver

• Zinc is important for skin health, immune function, and wound healing. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood. Both of these minerals are found in abundance in red meats and organ meats like liver.

6. Moisture

• Sources: Chicken broth, Plain water, Bone broth

• Cats have a low thirst drive, so getting enough moisture is important to prevent urinary tract problems and kidney disease. Fresh, clean water is essential, but you can also offer moisture through chicken broth or bone broth to entice your cat to drink more. This helps maintain hydration levels, especially if they are eating primarily dry food (though wet food is a better option for hydration).

How Much to Feed a Cat Based on Their Weight:

The amount of food to feed your cat varies based on its weight and activity level. Here’s a general guideline to get you started:

• Small cat (1.8-2.7 kg): 85-115 g of food per meal (including 20% liquid content)

• Medium cat (3.2-4.1 kg): 140-170 g of food per meal (including 20% liquid content)

• Large cat (4.5-5.4 kg): 170-200 g of food per meal (including 20% liquid content)

This is assuming you're feeding your cat a balanced, meat-based diet. If you’re meal prepping, adjust the portions based on your cat’s individual needs (whether they’re gaining or losing weight) and consult with your vet for precise guidelines. Remember, overweight cats may need slightly less food to maintain a healthy weight.

By focusing on these key ingredients and ensuring your cat’s meals are nutritionally balanced, you’ll be supporting their overall health and longevity, keeping them happy and thriving for years to come.

RECIPE TIME!

Here are 5 quick yet balanced meal recipes for cats using the ingredients we’ve discussed. Each recipe is designed to be nutrient-dense, with a balance of protein, essential fats, vitamins, and minerals to keep your cat healthy and thriving.

1. Chicken & Egg Delight

Ingredients:

• 100g chicken breast (protein)

• 1 large egg (protein, vitamin B, fat)

• 1 tsp fish oil (Omega-3 fatty acids)

• 1 tbsp bone broth (moisture)

• 1 tsp flaxseeds (Omega-3)

Instructions:

1. Cook the chicken breast by boiling or baking it. Cut it into small bite-sized pieces.

2. Scramble or boil the egg, then chop it into small pieces.

3. Mix the chicken, egg, and fish oil together.

4. Add a tablespoon of bone broth to make the meal more palatable and hydrating.

5. Sprinkle flaxseeds for an extra Omega-3 boost.

6. Serve immediately or store in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Benefits: This meal is rich in lean protein from chicken and eggs, with healthy fats from fish oil and flaxseeds. The bone broth adds moisture and extra nutrients.

2. Lamb & Liver Power Bowl

Ingredients:

• 80g lamb meat (protein)

• 20g lamb liver (taurine, iron, vitamin A)

• 1 tsp chicken fat (Omega-6)

• 1 tsp bone meal or crushed eggshells (calcium)

• 1 tbsp chicken broth (moisture)

Instructions:

1. Cook the lamb meat and chop it into small pieces.

2. Lightly cook the lamb liver, then chop into small pieces.

3. Mix the lamb meat and liver together in a bowl.

4. Add a teaspoon of chicken fat for healthy Omega-6 fatty acids.

5. Stir in the bone meal or eggshells to provide necessary calcium.

6. Add a spoon of chicken broth for moisture and flavor.

7. Serve immediately or store in the fridge.

Benefits: Lamb provides high-quality protein, and lamb liver is a fantastic source of taurine, iron, and vitamin A. The bone meal ensures proper calcium balance, while the chicken fat adds Omega-6 for overall health.

3. Fish & Egg Boost

Ingredients:

• 100g sardines in water (protein, Omega-3)

• 1 egg (protein, vitamin B)

• 1 tsp fish oil (Omega-3 fatty acids)

• 1 tsp flaxseeds (Omega-3)

• 1 tbsp chicken broth (moisture)

Instructions:

1. Drain and mash the sardines, removing any bones.

2. Scramble or boil the egg, then chop it into small pieces.

3. Mix the sardines and egg together.

4. Add a teaspoon of fish oil to boost the Omega-3 content.

5. Sprinkle flaxseeds for added healthy fat.

6. Stir in the chicken broth for moisture.

7. Serve immediately or store in the fridge.

Benefits: Sardines provide excellent protein and Omega-3 fatty acids. The egg offers additional protein and vitamins, while the fish oil and flaxseeds support coat health and reduce inflammation.

4. Turkey & Liver Medley

Ingredients:

• 100g turkey breast (protein)

• 30g turkey liver (taurine, vitamin A, iron)

• 1 tsp flaxseeds (Omega-3)

• 1 tsp chicken fat (Omega-6)

• 1 tbsp bone broth (moisture)

Instructions:

1. Cook the turkey breast and chop it into small pieces.

2. Lightly cook the turkey liver and chop it into small pieces.

3. Combine the turkey meat and liver in a bowl.

4. Add a teaspoon of chicken fat for Omega-6 fatty acids.

5. Sprinkle in flaxseeds for additional Omega-3.

6. Pour in the bone broth to provide moisture.

7. Serve immediately or store in the fridge.

Benefits: This recipe combines turkey, which is rich in protein, with liver for a boost of taurine, iron, and vitamin A. The flaxseeds and chicken fat contribute to healthy skin and coat, while bone broth offers hydration and additional nutrients.

5. Beef & Bone Meal Blend

Ingredients:

• 100g lean ground beef (protein, iron, zinc)

• 1 tsp bone meal or eggshells (calcium)

• 1 tbsp chicken broth (moisture)

• 1 tsp fish oil (Omega-3 fatty acids)

• 1 tsp flaxseeds (Omega-3)

Instructions:

1. Cook the ground beef thoroughly and chop it into small pieces if needed.

2. Add the bone meal or crushed eggshells to provide calcium.

3. Stir in the fish oil for Omega-3s and flaxseeds for added healthy fats.

4. Pour in chicken broth to hydrate the mixture.

5. Serve immediately or store in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Benefits: Ground beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, iron, and zinc. Bone meal provides necessary calcium for bone health, and fish oil and flaxseeds help with inflammation and coat health. The chicken broth helps keep your cat hydrated.

These meals can be rotated to ensure a varied diet that provides the necessary nutrients and keeps your cat’s diet exciting and balanced. You can also adjust the portion sizes based on your cat’s weight and nutritional needs. Always remember to consult with your vet before making major changes to your cat’s diet!

ROTATE

Remember you switch the Meat kind, pick any - Chicken, Lean Pork, Lean Beef, Lamb, Fish, Turkey, Quail, Duck or Emu. The idea is to feed them fresh & rotate as often can you can. 

TRANSITION TO FRESH 

When transitioning your cat to a new, real food diet, it's important to start slow and be patient. Cats are creatures of habit, and sudden changes to their diet can upset their digestive system. Begin by gradually introducing small amounts (about 1 teaspoon) of the new food mixed with their existing food. Over time, you can increase the portion of the new food, but don’t rush the process. It’s okay to take up to a month to switch completely, as cats take time to adjust to new flavors, textures, and smells. Also, keep in mind that different cats have different preferences—some may prefer shredded food, others might like a more pasty or chunky texture. Pay attention to what your cat enjoys and adjust accordingly. The key here is consistency and patience; too much, too soon can spoil the journey. Be persistent, observe how your cat responds, and remember that slow, steady progress will lead to long-term success. With time, your cat’s gut will build resistance and adapt to the new diet, allowing them to thrive on their natural, balanced meals.

POSITIVE CHANGES 

When you switch your cat completely to a homemade, meat-based diet, you’ll start to notice some incredible transformations, both physically and behaviorally. The first thing many pet parents observe is a boost in energy levels. Cats who were once lethargic or slept most of the day will suddenly have more pep in their step, playing, exploring, and engaging with their environment more actively.

As their energy increases, so does their confidence. Many cats become more expressive, vocalizing more and interacting with you in new ways. You might notice that they become friendlier and more cuddly as their overall well-being improves. A better diet leads to a healthier cat, which often translates to a more affectionate, social, and relaxed companion who enjoys spending quality time with their humans. It’s as if they are thanking you for making the switch to something so nourishing and beneficial.

On top of that, their physical appearance will begin to change. Cats on a meat-based diet typically lose excess fat and gain lean muscle. 

Their fur coat becomes noticeably shinier, softer, and thicker, reflecting the improvements in their overall nutrition. The right balance of protein, fats, and essential nutrients helps maintain healthy skin and coat.

Overall, switching to a homemade diet doesn’t just nourish their body—it also positively impacts their mental and emotional state. You’ll see your cat thrive in ways you didn’t expect, becoming a more confident, affectionate, and interactive member of your family. They’ll likely want to spend even more time with you, seeking your company and showing their appreciation in their unique ways. It’s amazing to witness how nutrition can profoundly improve their overall quality of life, deepening your bond and creating a happier, healthier pet.

MID DAY SNACKIES

Here’s a quick list of healthy snack ideas for your cat, including the addition of chicken necks/claws for oral health:

1. Chicken Bites

• Ingredients: Boneless, skinless chicken breast.

• Quick Prep: Boil or bake, cut into small pieces.

• Benefits: Lean protein, promotes muscle health.

2. Tuna Treats

• Ingredients: Canned tuna in water (no salt).

• Quick Prep: Drain and serve small portions.

• Benefits: High in protein and omega-3s for coat health.

3. Boiled Egg Slices

• Ingredients: Boiled egg.

• Quick Prep: Boil, slice into pieces.

• Benefits: Protein and vitamins B & D for energy.

4. Sardine Chunks

• Ingredients: Canned sardines in water.

• Quick Prep: Drain, chop into chunks.

• Benefits: Omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat.

5. Liver Nibbles

• Ingredients: Chicken or beef liver.

• Quick Prep: Lightly cook, cut into small pieces.

• Benefits: Rich in taurine, vitamin A, and iron.

6. Cheese Bites (Occasional)

• Ingredients: Plain cheese (like cheddar).

• Quick Prep: Cut into small cubes.

• Benefits: Protein and calcium (only occasional, as some cats are lactose intolerant).

7. Pumpkin Puree

• Ingredients: Canned pumpkin (unsweetened).

• Quick Prep: Serve small spoonfuls.

• Benefits: Aids digestion, helps with constipation or diarrhea.

8. Freeze-Dried Meat Treats

• Ingredients: Freeze-dried chicken, turkey, or beef.

• Quick Prep: Ready to serve.

• Benefits: Pure protein, no added preservatives or seasonings.

9. Parboiled Chicken Necks or Claws

• Ingredients: Chicken necks or claws.

• Quick Prep: Parboil for 15-20 minutes, serve cooled.

• Benefits: Promotes dental health by cleaning teeth and gums, provides mental stimulation.

BOO BOO FIXES

Here’s a list of natural remedies to fix common day-to-day issues in cats, promoting overall health and well-being:

1. Diluted Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) for UTI Prevention

• How to Use: Add a few drops (1/4 to 1/2 tsp) of diluted ACV (with water) to your cat’s water bowl, or mix it with food.

• Benefits: ACV has antibacterial properties that help balance pH levels and may support urinary tract health.

2. Regular Chew Sessions for Gingivitis

• How to Use: Offer chewable treats like chicken necks, claws, or safe chew toys regularly.

• Benefits: Chewing helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup, preventing gingivitis and promoting good dental hygiene.

3. Egg Shell Powder for Calcium Deficiency

• How to Use: Grind clean, dried egg shells into a fine powder. Add 1/2 tsp to your cat’s meals.

• Benefits: A natural source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. It also supports nerve and muscle function.

4. Golden Paste for Gut Health

• How to Use: Mix 1/2 tsp of golden paste (made from turmeric, black pepper, and coconut oil) into your cat’s food.

• Benefits: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that support gut health, digestion, and even help with skin allergies and inflammation.

5. Bone Broth for Bones, Joints, and Ligament Care

• How to Use: Add 1-2 tbsp of homemade or high-quality bone broth to your cat’s meals or serve as a treat.

• Benefits: Bone broth is rich in collagen, which supports joint health, bone density, and promotes gut healing.

6. Coconut Oil for Coat and Skin Health

• How to Use: Add 1/4 tsp of organic coconut oil to your cat’s food, or rub a small amount onto dry, flaky patches of skin.

• Benefits: Coconut oil is great for skin, coat, and digestion. It also helps with hairballs by improving fur quality and reducing shedding.

7. Pumpkin for Digestive Health

• How to Use: Mix 1-2 teaspoons of pure pumpkin puree (unsweetened) into your cat’s food.

• Benefits: Pumpkin is rich in fiber and helps regulate digestion, addressing both constipation and diarrhea.

8. Aloe Vera for Skin Irritations

• How to Use: Use a small amount of pure aloe vera gel (ensure it’s safe for cats) to soothe irritated or inflamed skin.

• Benefits: Aloe vera is soothing and helps with minor cuts, burns, and skin irritations.

9. Olive Oil for Hairballs

• How to Use: Add 1/4 tsp of olive oil to your cat’s food once or twice a week.

• Benefits: Olive oil helps lubricate the digestive tract, making it easier for your cat to pass hairballs.

10. Raw Honey for Immune Support

• How to Use: Add a small spoonful (1/4 tsp) of raw honey to your cat’s food.

• Benefits: Raw honey has antimicrobial properties that can boost the immune system and soothe sore throats or digestive discomfort.

11. Wheatgrass for Detox and Digestion

• How to Use: Grow fresh wheatgrass and let your cat nibble on it freely.

• Benefits: Wheatgrass is great for detoxifying the body, aiding digestion, and helping with hairball elimination.

12. Probiotics for Gut Health - Yogurt, Kefir, Green Tripe, Over cooked pumpkin, Bone Broth

• How to Use: Add a small amount of cat-friendly probiotics to your cat’s food.

• Benefits: Probiotics support a healthy gut flora, improving digestion and immune function, and helping with constipation, diarrhea, or any upset stomach.

By incorporating these natural remedies, you can address many common issues like digestive discomfort, skin irritation, and even anxiety in your cat. Always observe how your cat reacts, and if you're ever unsure about a new remedy, consult your vet.

Disclaimer: Please note that I am not a veterinarian. I am simply an experienced pet mom sharing the knowledge and insights I've gathered over the years from meal prepping for my cats and choosing holistic approaches. The information I’ve shared is intended to guide and support pet parents who wish to explore natural options for their fur babies.

Choosing a holistic, all-natural approach is a long-term commitment, and while the results may take time to show, the journey itself is incredibly rewarding. Just like with us, our pets need patience and consistency to see the benefits. Remember that every little change you make for their health and well-being is a step toward a brighter, happier life for your precious companion. Trust the process and believe in the love and care you're giving them—these choices will make a positive impact in the long run.

Take it one day at a time, and know that you're doing your best for your pet. 🐾💚