FM2 Pt3-2 Feeding Behaviour of Cats Flashcards
What type of food texture do cats generally prefer?
Cats generally prefer food textures that resemble meat or flesh and are attracted to fat and protein/amino acids.
How does odour affect a cat’s willingness to eat food?
Cats are highly influenced by food odour; unappealing smells may cause them to refuse food, while warming food can enhance its odour.
What is the average number of small meals a domestic cat prefers per day?
Domestic cats prefer 9-16 small meals per day, with each meal containing about 23 kcals.
Why do cats prefer eating small meals frequently?
Cats originated as lone hunters, so they naturally prefer eating small meals throughout the day and night, mimicking their natural behaviour of catching small prey.
Why is it important for cat owners to monitor the amount of dry food fed to cats?
Dry food is calorie-dense, and without careful measurement, overfeeding can lead to obesity in cats.
How does food temperature impact a cat’s eating behaviour?
Cats prefer food at body temperature (38-39°C), and they tend to refuse food that is too hot or cold, such as wet food straight from the refrigerator.
What influence does the queen (mother cat) have on kittens’ food preferences?
Kittens closely mimic the feeding behaviour and food preferences of the queen, both during and after weaning. This can include mimicking unusual food choices if the queen eats them.
What are the two terms describing a cat’s preference for food it has never encountered or always eaten?
Neophilia refers to a preference for new foods (novelty), while neophobia refers to a preference for the same foods and avoidance of new ones.
What is the ‘monotony effect’ in cats’ feeding behaviour?
The monotony effect refers to cats developing an aversion to foods they eat frequently, preferring new or unusual foods instead.
What factors can cause stress in cats when introducing a new food?
Stress from new food introduction can arise if the food has an unappealing odour or palatability, or in a stressful environment, where cats may prefer familiar foods.
How do kittens develop harmful food preferences?
Kittens fed raw or cooked meat along with other foods may develop a strong preference for meat, leading to an imbalanced diet.
How do cats’ ancestors influence their water intake behaviour?
Cats have evolved to conserve water due to their desert-dwelling ancestors, leading them to produce concentrated urine and drink less water compared to dogs.
What are the benefits of feeding wet food to cats?
Wet food helps increase water intake, which can be beneficial for cats with urinary problems, and it provides a balance in combination with dry food.
What precautions should be taken when providing water to cats?
Cats prefer fresh water, large bowls to avoid whisker contact, and may be attracted to running water. Metal or ceramic bowls are ideal to prevent tainting the water taste.
Why do some cats eat grass despite it causing vomiting?
Eating grass may help cats eliminate furballs or indigestible prey parts, though the exact reason remains unclear.
