Recently I was visiting with Jon, at dinner time I was reminded about his cat, Garfield, and his terrible diet. Jon is a complete pushover, he feeds Garfield human food all the time. I have attempted to warn Jon about giving Garfield human food but he has not changed his diet. His cat is still overweight, and lethargic. I have tried to tell him that Garfield should not be eating human food for every meal. I guess it is a habit that is hard to break. 

Pet foods are developed with essential vitamins and minerals that have been scientifically formulated to give your cat the most nutritional benefit possible. For this reason, the best food to feed your cat is a formulated cat food.

It is a common misconception that because food is good for you, it is good for your cat. Feeding your cat a formulated wet or dry cat food is more beneficial than having your cat on a diet of mostly human food.

Feeding your cat human food

• Encouraging begging may results in constant bad behavior. If you feed your cat when it begs at the table it will expect this treatment all the time. If you are going to give your cat scraps always feed them in their feed bowl.
• Do not make a habit of feeding your cat human food. The occasional sliver is ok, it is not recommended that you allow your animal to become accustomed to eating your meals. It often causes your cat to become a fussy eater.
• Cats are primarily carnivores, it is important for them to eat meat to survive. If you choose not to eat meat that is fine. Your cat can not survive as a vegetarian.
• Some human foods are toxic to cats, depending on the amount and type of food. 

Your cat is relying on you to feed it the best food for its health and nutrition. Please consult your local vet if you are unsure about how to find a food that suite your cats personal needs.

- Dr. Liz