| La Cocina |
| It goes without saying that your cat's diet is very important to her health and well-being. There are many commercial pet foods available on the market which provide all the nutrients cats need in their diets. Table scraps should be avoided. |
| Cats cannot survive on a vegetarian diet. In fact, cats need 5 times as much protien as dogs - more than most other animals! They also need an amino acid called taurine (not found in plant products) to prevent them from growing blind. Additionally cats need certain fatty acids for new cell production; while many other animals can process these acids from plant sources, cats need meat or fish to provide this important nutrient. |
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| Surprisingly milk is not good for cats; it often gives them indigestion. Thus milk products should be given sparingly, or not at all. |
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| No one should ever give a cat medicines meant for humans unless directed to do so by a vet. Acetaminophen, for example, can kill a cat, even if given in small amounts. |
| Another dangerous substance is the active ingredient in mothballs. A cat closed into a closet with them can die in only a few hours. Cedar is a good substitute for keeping moths away and your pet safe. |
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| Unfortunately there are many other substances which are harmful to cats. Plants such as hydrangea, lily-of-the-valley, larkspur, philodendron, wisteria, and many kinds of ivy are poisonous. |
| Even favorite Christmas plants such as poinsettia, mistletoe and English ivy can be toxic. |
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