Can My Cat Be A Vegetarian?

You may have seen people claim that when they feed their cats a vegetarian diet, all sorts of wonderful health benefits follow. After all, if cutting out meat makes humans healthier, why not cats? I know some plant and animal products are good for cats, like broccoli, carrots, pumpkins, and eggs. And I’m not going to tell you to never feed your cat a vegetable, but I will tell you that feeding only plant-based foods will cause far more harm than good.

“I don’t eat meat and my dog rarely eats meat so why can’t my cat eat this way too?”

Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their bodies are biologically designed to thrive on a diet that's primarily made up of animal-based protein. Unlike humans, who are omnivores and can survive on a diet that includes both plant- and animal-based foods, cats require specific nutrients that are only found in animal-based sources. According to the Blue Cross in the UK, “...cats require a much higher level of protein than dogs and humans, and their ability to digest and use carbohydrates is much lower.” So different species have different nutritional needs, and the bones, organs, and blood in meat contain these micro-nutrients that cats need to live.

“What kind of nutrients?”

One of the big nutrients cats require is an amino acid named taurine. Taurine is essential for cats' cardiovascular health, vision, and immune systems. Taurine is only naturally found in meat, fish, and other animal-based proteins, but not in plant-based foods. Without enough taurine in their diet, cats can develop serious health problems like heart disease, feline central retinal degeneration (FCRD), and even death.

Another nutrient that's essential for cats is arachidonic acid, which is an omega-6 fatty acid found in animal-based sources. Arachidonic acid is vital for their growth, reproductive health, and immune system. Without enough of it, cats can develop skin and coat problems, digestive issues, and even liver damage.

Lastly, cats require vitamin B12, which is essential for their nervous system, red blood cell formation, and overall health. Vitamin B12 is found almost exclusively in animal-based proteins, and without it, cats can develop anemia, lethargy, and other health complications.

All of these nutrients are things that cannot be found in vegetables, and your cat will suffer without them.

“But I am vegetarian/vegan for ethical reasons…”

While some people may have personal beliefs about vegetarian or vegan diets, it's crucial to understand that cats have specific nutritional requirements that are different from those of humans. These diets are usually based on love and respect for other animals, but there is nothing loving about depriving an animal of the things it needs. If you can’t get past feeding your pet meat, maybe a cat is not the right pet for you. As responsible pet owners, we have to ensure our cats are getting the nutrition they need to live a healthy and happy life. So let's not take any chances with our cats' health and stick to what their bodies are meant to consume: meat.

For more information on what to feed your cat read the post, “What To Feed Your Siberian Cat.”