Bengal cats, with their striking appearance and wild ancestry, have unique dietary needs that differ from those of regular domestic cats. As descendants of Asian leopard cats, Bengals possess a higher activity level and metabolism, necessitating specialized nutrition planning. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the knowledge to ensure your Bengal kitten receives the optimal diet for a healthy and vibrant life.
Understanding the Bengal's Nutritional Needs
Bengal cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet should primarily consist of animal-based protein. Their digestive systems and athletic build require nutrition that aligns with their natural evolutionary needs. Unlike regular domestic cats, Bengals process nutrients differently, requiring a diet that supports their energetic lifestyle and lean physique.
Protein: The Cornerstone of a Bengal's Diet
Bengal cats require a high protein intake to fuel their active lifestyle. When choosing commercial cat food, always check the ingredients list and ensure that meat is the very first ingredient. Ideally, dry food should contain no less than 26% protein, while wet food should also prioritize protein content.
Fat: Fueling Activity and Development
Fat is a crucial energy source for Bengal cats, second only to animal protein. It is essential for hunting, healing, and reproduction. Bengal kittens, in particular, require a fat content of 18-35% in their diet, sourced from poultry fat and fish oil to aid brain development and provide essential energy.
Carbohydrates: Minimizing the Intake
While Bengals don't require grains, the "grain-free" label alone doesn't guarantee a high-quality diet. Carbohydrates should be minimized in a Bengal's diet, as they can lead to weight gain and health issues. If the ingredients list contains carbohydrates, ensure they do not make up a large portion of the product.
Read also: Chicken Recipe for Indoor Kittens: An In-Depth Analysis
Water: Essential for Hydration
Fresh water should be provided at least twice daily for Bengals, with complete bowl washing at each change to prevent bacterial buildup. Cats inherently have a low thirst drive and need to consume water with their food. A cat’s normal prey is ~70 - 75% water; dry food is only 5-10% water.
Choosing the Right Food for Your Bengal Kitten
Selecting the right food is crucial for your Bengal kitten's health and development. Here's a breakdown of the different types of food and what to look for:
Dry Food (Kibble)
- High-Quality, High-Calorie, High-Protein: Your kitten needs a high-quality kibble specifically designed for kittens until they are a year old. Some foods specify that they are meant for adults and kittens, which is also fine.
- Meat as the First Ingredient: Always look at the ingredients and make sure the very first ingredient is meat.
- Avoid Fillers: Kibble with fillers forces your cat to eat more to get the necessary nutrients.
- Premium Brands: Use premium products from well-known brands. Do not use cheap stuff! Poor-quality foods use bones, hides, and feathers for protein instead of meat.
Wet Food
- High-Quality Brands: Consider brands like Wellness, Nulo, Instinct, Blue Buffalo, Wilderness, Tiki Cat, etc.
- Protein Content: Don't be confused by the protein content in wet food; it may seem like it has less, but it doesn't.
Raw Food
- Bengals' Craving for Meat: Bengals often crave meat more than other domestic cats.
- Lean Red Beef: Some breeders feed a daily ration of very lean red beef in addition to their regular diet, and some feed only raw meat.
- Research and Supplements: If you are going to put your Bengal on a raw food diet, please do your research and ensure you are adding supplements like Kitty Bloom to the meat so they get all the vitamins and minerals they need.
- Precautions: Raw meat can cause food poisoning in Bengals! Do not let it sit at room temperature for very long, and remove whatever the cat doesn't eat after 20 minutes.
- Cooked Chicken: Cooked chicken is a good option, but avoid ordinary hamburger, which contains too much fat and can cause stomach upset.
Homemade Diets
- Control Over Ingredients: Many Bengal owners choose homemade diets to have complete control over ingredients and quality.
- Nutritional Balance: The key to successful homemade diets is maintaining complete nutritional balance.
- Veterinary Consultation: Before starting any homemade feeding regimen, consult with a veterinary nutritionist to verify your recipes meet all nutritional requirements.
- Sample Raw Diet Recipe: Combine 2 pounds of boneless chicken thighs (with skin) and 1 pound of salmon or mackerel with 4 ounces of chicken liver and 2 tablespoons of salmon oil. After cooling, add 1000mg taurine supplement, 2 teaspoons ground eggshell (calcium source), and a commercial vitamin/mineral supplement designed for homemade cat food.
Foods to Avoid
- Dog Food: Cats require taurine, which is not contained in dog food.
- Table Scraps: Avoid feeding table scraps, as they can be harmful.
- Milk: Milk can cause indigestion and diarrhea.
- Liver, Canned Tuna, or Other Canned Fish Intended for Humans: These can be harmful to your kitten.
- Human Food: Unless you cook them unseasoned chicken, beef, fish, etc. This would be for a treat, not their main diet.
- Chocolate: Contains theobromine, which is poisonous.
- Pork and Lamb: Can cause fatty deposits inside internal organs.
- Starches: Are not digested.
- "Human" Vitamins: Do not work for cats.
- Porridge: Should not be given in any amount.
- Avocado: Avocado leaves, bark, seeds, skin, and pits contain a toxic substance called persin.
- Alcoholic Beverages: Alcohol can cause fatal brain and liver damage.
- Foods That Contain Xylitol: Candies, snacks, gum, and baked goods contain xylitol, which is toxic.
- Caffeine: Caffeine is highly toxic, especially when consumed in large quantities.
Feeding Schedule and Portion Control
- Kittens (2-12 Months): Bengal kittens have high energy levels and small stomachs, so they require frequent meals-typically 3 to 4 times daily-to support their rapid growth and active nature.
- Adults: Adult Bengals need about 20-25 calories per pound of body weight daily. Feed 2-3 meals daily rather than free-feeding.
- Adjustments: Active Bengals may need up to 30% more calories, while less active or older individuals might need 10-15% less.
Supplements for Optimal Health
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate: May help support joint health in active Bengals.
- Probiotics: Can be a valuable addition to any Bengal cat's diet, particularly during times of digestive upset or stress.
- Taurine: Is an essential amino acid that cats cannot produce on their own.
Transitioning to a New Food
- Gradual Transition: When changing your Bengal's food, do so gradually to avoid digestive upset.
- Mix Old and New: Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with the old food, gradually increasing the proportion of new food over 7-10 days.
Addressing Common Concerns
Bengal Diarrhea
Bengal cats have a sensitive digestive system, making them prone to diarrhea. The better nutrition your kitten receives, the healthier it will be.
Food Allergies
Bengals, like any cat, can have food allergies. Common symptoms include skin issues and digestive upset. If you suspect your cat has a food allergy, consult with your veterinarian.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Bengals are predisposed to HCM, a heart condition. Regular heart murmur tests are essential for early detection.
Read also: Kitten Food Ingredient Analysis
Weight Management
It’s important to make sure that your Bengal cat doesn’t become overweight.
Read also: Comprehensive Kitten Raw Diet