Diet

Feeding your Oriental Shorthair well

United Kingdom

The Oriental Shorthair benefits from a high-quality diet, easy to digest and adapted to its age, its activity level and its individual sensitivity. Its apparent slenderness must not lead to an unstructured diet: it needs regular and well-measured intakes.

A menu for every age

Needs change over time

  • Kitten : A rich, highly digestible growth diet, given in several small meals, supports the harmonious development of this active, slender cat.

  • Adult : The ration must cover maintenance needs without excess, with good protein density and monitoring of body shape.

  • Senior : A very digestible, palatable diet is preferred, adapted to renal and dental condition and to the activity level of the older cat.

Which food?

Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?

A premium complete food, in good-quality kibble, wet food or a well-balanced mixed diet, is generally very suitable. Formulas rich in animal proteins and easy to digest should be preferred, with particular attention for individuals with sensitive stomachs.

Amounts

How much should you give?

Quantities vary depending on the weight, activity, neutering/spaying, and metabolism of each cat. It is preferable to adjust the ration by observing body condition rather than relying solely on the volume given.

WeightDaily amountMeals/day
2 - 3 kg42 - 62 g2
3 - 5 kg57 - 84 g2
5 - 6 kg74 - 105 g2

Change

Managing the food transition

Any change in diet must be gradual over several days in order to avoid digestive upsets. A slow transition is particularly helpful for sensitive cats or those very attached to their eating habits.

Hydration

Water: do not overlook it

Good hydration is important, notably to support urinary comfort. Fresh water must remain available at all times, and many cats prefer a fountain or the combination of kibble and wet food.

Little extras

Treats, in moderation

Treats should remain occasional and included in the calculation of the daily ration. Used in moderation, they can be used for play, training and enrichment without unbalancing energy intake.

Good habits

For a top-notch bowl

  • Split the ration if the cat often begs or eats too quickly.
  • Combine wet food and fresh water to promote hydration.
  • Regularly monitor the silhouette despite its naturally slender appearance.

Never give

As with other cats, you should avoid in particular chocolate, onion, garlic, grapes, alcohol, caffeine, cooked bones and very salty or fatty foods, as they can cause digestive, nervous, kidney or hematological disorders that are sometimes serious.

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