I am proposing that the pet food manufacturers consider creating a hybrid ‘wet’ food which is suitable for both humans and cats. My research indicates that it is technically feasible as both have the same nutritional requirement with, perhaps, one difference: Vitamin A. It appears that cats need more of this vitamin that humans but this needs to be checked and the solution would be to include a compromised amount that was acceptable to both.
Advantages of a hybrid food
Here’s my list of advantages of a hybrid food as suggested:
- Less waste – hybrid cat food would be better quality than typical cat food. Cats would eat more of it. Less waste. If the cat leaves some, the human can finish it! 🙀😉. I know millions will say, ‘But what about cat mouth bacteria?’ I think it is overplayed. What about human mouth bacteria which is no worse than cat mouth bacteria in my view? Yes, cat saliva contains the Fel D1 allergen but if a person is allergic to cats they’ll come into contact with this allergen anyway so there is no change in that respect.
- Healthier cats – higher quality cat food would lead to better health in cats. This would save money for the caregiver.
- Sharing – sharing your food with your cat would be great for bonding 🙀😹. The cat cargiver could sit down with their cat and eat together. This is what cats expect anyway. They must be confused by the fact that their ‘surrogate mum’ (their owner) consumes and entirely different diet.
- In terms of food quality, there would be equality between cats and humans (at last).
Same nutritional needs?
Cat food doesn’t contain any inherently inedible components for humans; in reality, it’s made from the same basic ingredients that constitute our everyday diet. The key difference lies in the quality of the ingredients. Human food is crafted using high-quality components, while pet food often incorporates lower-quality alternatives. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Vitamin A Toxicity: Cat food is rich in Vitamin A, which could be toxic to humans over time. Although the effects may not be immediately apparent, prolonged consumption can be fatal. Human reactions to Vitamin A toxicity typically include nausea, vomiting, headaches, irritability, and blurred vision.
- Artificial Additives: Some artificial additives in cat food may contain chemicals that are not well-tolerated by cats and can even be toxic in higher quantities. For example, certain food coloring agents have been associated with health issues in both cats and humans. Artificial colors and flavors may also affect a cat’s behavior and temperament.
- Preservatives: Ethoxyquin, a synthetic antioxidant commonly found in cat food, is prohibited for use in human food due to its potential for serious harm if ingested or in direct contact with the skin. Opt for cat foods that utilize natural preservatives like Vitamin C or E instead.
It seems that one issue is the relatively poor quality of cat food compared to human food. The hybrid model would resolve this discrepancy and treat cats as equals in respect of diet. 😻
Remember that while cat food ingredients may not be directly toxic to humans, it’s essential to stick to a balanced human diet and avoid consuming pet food regularly. If you have concerns about specific ingredients, consult with a healthcare professional or veterinarian. 🐾
Vitamin A
Cats have a higher dietary requirement for vitamin A compared to humans. Vitamin A is essential for various bodily functions, including vision, immune system health, and cell growth. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their natural diet consists primarily of animal-based foods. In the wild, they obtain vitamin A from consuming animal tissues like liver and fish. However, plant-based sources of vitamin A (such as beta-carotene found in vegetables) are not efficiently converted to the active form of vitamin A in cats.
Here’s the breakdown:
- Retinol: Cats require preformed vitamin A (retinol) directly from animal sources. Their bodies cannot efficiently convert beta-carotene (found in plants) into retinol. Lack of sufficient retinol can lead to health issues, including vision problems.
- Liver Function: Cats’ livers play a crucial role in storing and releasing vitamin A. If a cat’s diet lacks adequate retinol, liver dysfunction can occur.
- Taurine: Taurine, an amino acid found in animal tissues, is essential for cats. It’s involved in vision, heart health, and reproduction. Vitamin A supports taurine metabolism.
- Excess Vitamin A: While cats need more vitamin A, excessive amounts can be harmful. Chronic vitamin A toxicity can lead to bone abnormalities, joint pain, and other health issues.
In summary, cats require more vitamin A due to their unique dietary needs, but it’s essential to provide the right balance. Consult with a veterinarian to ensure your cat’s diet meets its specific requirements. 🐱🥕 The question here is: “Can a hybrid pet/human food contain enough Vitamin A for cats but not too much Vitamin A for humans?’
Revealed the 2 best wet cat foods in the US according to two AI bots
Comments welcome…
