It would be no surprise to learn felines funded a recent study by animal nutritionist specialists with the University of Guelph, in Ontario, Canada, as the conclusion comes out in their favor.
Cat parents have often pondered why their kitties act as though they’re starving when the level of the food in their bowl dips below an acceptable place. If more research proves similar conclusions, this study might just solve the mystery behind cat food bowl theatrics!
Get ready, this idea runs contrary to what we’ve always been told when it comes to keeping cat tummies full and happy.
Full kitties are happy kitties.
More All at Once Might Be the Way
For the study, the university nutritional specialists selected a sampling of eight indoor cats. Each of these cats was first fed on a once-a-day feeding schedule for twenty-one days. Their schedules were then altered to a routine of feedings four times a day for another 3-week period.
One would think this would please the cats to eat more meals throughout the day, but the results weren’t what experts had expected.
Once blood work was examined for both types of feeding schedules, it was revealed once-a-day feedings were beneficial to the 8 cats. Their feline appetite-regulating hormones rose to higher levels, which kept the cats acting less hungry throughout the day. And, as we well know, satiated kitties are happy, calm kitties!
This solo feed approach could also help curb obesity in cats. When fed once throughout the day, their bodies appeared to dip into fat stores. This means, rather than a cat feeding their chonk, their bodies ate away at the extra pudge!
Plus, higher amounts of protein were recorded as well, leading the cats to build muscle. Strong muscles are key to helping cats stay fit and healthy as they age.
Professor and veterinarian with the University of Guelph’s Ontario Veterinary College, Adronie Verbrugghe, said, “These findings may surprise the veterinary community and many cat owners who have been told their animals need several small meals a day.”
Maybe Not for Every Cat
While some cats would be happy with one large bowl of chow a day, others might demand several smaller meals. Really, it’s whatever feeding schedule works best for your cat. As a dedicated cat parent, you know what your cats needs the most!
You’re cat will tell you loud and clear if once-a-day feeding is too his liking or not!
H/T: www.nypost.com