Russian Blue Cat Diet: How to Properly Feed Your Russian Blue Cat

Russian Blue Cat Diet: How to Properly Feed Your Russian Blue Cat

Russian Blue cats are known for their striking blue-gray coat, elegant appearance, and affectionate personality. To maintain their health and well-being, it is important to feed them a balanced and nutritious diet that meets their unique nutritional requirements. The Russian Blue cat diet should consist of high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for the overall health and well-being of Russian Blue cats.

A well-balanced diet ensures that they receive the necessary nutrients to support their immune system, maintain a healthy weight, and prevent various health issues such as obesity, urinary tract problems, and food allergies.

Without a proper diet, Russian Blue cats may suffer from malnutrition, which can lead to a range of health problems and affect their quality of life.

Therefore, it is essential to understand their unique nutritional requirements and feed them a healthy and balanced diet to ensure their optimal health.

If you are having trouble feeding your Russian Blue Cat or deciding what kind of food is better for them, don’t worry!

This article is for you. In this article, we will provide you with as much information and guidelines as possible regarding feeding your Russian Blue cat so that you can make informed decisions on what and how to feed them while maintaining a balance that works for both you and your feline companion.

Understanding the Nutritional Needs of Russian Blue Cats

Russian Blue cats have specific nutritional needs that should be met to maintain their optimal health

. As true carnivores, their diet should consist of high-quality protein to support their muscle mass, tissue repair, and overall growth.

The recommended protein content for Russian Blue cats is around 30-45%, which can be found in foods such as poultry, beef, fish, and eggs.

In addition to protein, Russian Blue cats also require healthy fats in their diet to maintain their energy levels, healthy skin, and coat.

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential in these cats and can be found in foods such as fish, flaxseed, and chicken.

Carbohydrates are not essential for Russian Blue cats, as their digestive system is not well-adapted to process them.

However, a small number of carbohydrates can be included in their diet in the form of fiber to aid in digestion and prevent constipation.

Finally, Russian Blue cats require specific vitamins and minerals to maintain their health.

These include vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin D, and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium.

A balanced diet that meets all of these nutritional requirements is essential to ensure the long-term health and well-being of your Russian Blue cat.

Different Types Of Food For Russian Blue Cat?

When it comes to the question of what Russian Blue cats eat, it’s important to note that they are generally not very picky eaters.

However, choosing high-quality food options that meet their specific nutritional needs is still essential for their overall health and well-being.

When it comes to cat food, there are several types available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. 

The most common types of food include dry kibble, wet food, raw food, and homemade options.

It’s important to carefully consider each type of food’s nutritional value and quality and choose the best option for your cat’s individual needs and preferences. 

Premium cat foods with meat-rich, low-carbohydrate & grain-free (such as Royal Canin, Halo, or Nutro) that provide all the moisture and nutrients are considered better and healthier in the long run for Russian Blue.

When choosing a type of food for your Russian Blue cat, it is important to consider their nutritional needs, as well as their age, health status, and preferences.

You may also want to consult with your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist to ensure that your cat’s diet meets all of its nutritional requirements.

Ultimately, providing a balanced diet that meets all of your Russian Blue cat’s nutritional requirements is essential for their long-term health and well-being.

Here are some of the most common types of cat food:

Dry Food

Also known as kibble, dry food is a popular choice for many cat owners due to its convenience and affordability.

It also helps to clean your cat’s teeth as they chew on the crunchy pieces.

However, some dry foods can be high in carbohydrates and lack moisture, which may not meet the nutritional needs of Russian Blue cats.

Wet Food

Wet food contains more moisture and can be a better option for cats who need additional hydration.

It can also be more palatable for cats who are picky eaters.

However, wet food can be more expensive and spoil more quickly once opened.

Moreover, wet food is also a better option for cats who are prone to obesity as they have fewer fillers, which means there are more usable nutrients for cats.

(Note: Don’t feed your cat both natural and dry food at the same time, as it can harm their digestive system.)

Raw Food

A raw food diet involves feeding your cat raw meat, bones, and organs.

Advocates of raw feeding argue that it is a more natural diet for cats and can improve their overall health.

However, raw feeding requires careful preparation and can be expensive.

Homemade Food

Homemade food is another option for Russian Blue cats, but it requires careful planning and preparation to ensure that your cat receives all the necessary nutrients.

Homemade food can be a good option for cats with specific dietary requirements or food allergies.

If you prefer natural food or homemade food, then choose only the foods suitable or recommended by the vet for your cats:

  • fat-free dairy products without sour cream, cottage cheese, or yogurt
  • raw or boiled meat of chicken, sheep, or rabbit(from a good source)
  • liver, heart, stomach
  • boiled and fresh egg yolk- once a week
  • Less fatty sea fish without bones- just 1 to 2 times a week

Choosing the Right Food for Your Russian Blue Cat

Choosing the right food for your Russian Blue cat is crucial for their overall health and well-being.

A balanced and nutritious diet ensures that they receive the necessary nutrients to support their immune system, maintain a healthy weight, and prevent various health issues such as obesity, urinary tract problems, and food allergies.

Here are some tips on how to select the best food for your Russian Blue cat:

Read the label:

Look for foods that are specifically formulated for cats and meet their unique nutritional requirements.

The label should list high-quality protein sources, essential vitamins and minerals, and limited amounts of carbohydrates.

Check for quality ingredients:

Look for high-quality protein sources such as chicken, turkey, or fish.

Avoid foods that contain meat by-products, fillers, and artificial colors or flavors.

Consider your cat’s age, weight, and health status:

Different cats have different nutritional requirements based on their age, weight, and health status.

For example, kittens require higher amounts of protein and calories than adult cats, while older cats may require food that is lower in calories to help maintain a healthy weight.

Choose wet or dry food based on your cat’s preferences and needs:

Some cats may prefer the texture and moisture of wet food, while others may enjoy the crunchiness of dry kibble.

Consider your cat’s individual preferences and needs when choosing between wet and dry food options.

Consult with your veterinarian: 

Your veterinarian can help you determine the appropriate food and feeding schedule for your Russian Blue cat based on its individual needs and preferences.

How Much To Feed a Russian Blue Cat?

The recommended daily calorie intake for a cat varies depending on its weight, age, activity level, and other factors.

So, how much food should a cat eat a day?

As a general rule of thumb, a cat requires approximately 20-30 calories per pound of body weight per day.

This means that a 10-pound cat would require approximately 200-300 calories per day.

On the other hand, Kittens have higher calorie requirements than adult cats due to their rapid growth and development.

As a general guideline, kittens require approximately 2-3 times the number of calories per pound of body weight compared to adult cats.

Table 1: Cat Calorie Requirement By Weight (Adult Cat)

Weight (lbs) Calorie Requirements (kcal/day)
4 180
6 240
8 300
10 360
12 410
14 460
16 510

Table 2: Cat Calorie Requirement By Age (Kittens)

Age (weeks) Calorie Requirements (kcal/day)
4 80-100
8 150-200
12 200-250
16 250-300

It’s important to note that these values are approximate and may vary depending on the individual kitten’s needs.

Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate calorie requirements for your kitten and adjust their diet accordingly.

Best Cat Food For Russian Blue

Feeding your Russian Blue cat professionally formulated, packaged, or canned food is an excellent choice to ensure they receive the necessary nutrition, digestibility, safety, and convenience. 

In order to help your Russian Blue cat maintain optimal health, it’s important to choose high-quality commercial cat foods that cater to its specific dietary requirements.

Here are some recommendations for the best cat food brands for Russian Blue cats:

Product Features
Halo Wet Canned Cat Food
  • Made with real WHOLE meat for higher protein content
  • Sustainably sourced ingredients
  • Grain-free, with quality ingredients from U.S. farms
Royal Canin Weight Care Cat Food
  • Supports weight management
  • High protein content
  • Blended with ideal fiber for digestion
Nom Nom
  • Packed with essential nutrients and easily digestible
  • High-moisture, low carbohydrate formulation
  • Made with satisfying, human-grade ingredients
Nutro Feed Clean Cat Food
  • All-natural and grain-free
  • Free from artificial flavors or colors
  • Formulated without wheat for sensitive cats
Wellness Cat Food
  • Contains healthy fiber for digestion
  • Rich in highly-digestible protein
  • Supports healthy hips and joints
Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Dry Cat Food
  • High protein content from real meat
  • Grain-free recipe with no artificial preservatives
  • Supports healthy muscle development and immune system
Hill’s Science Diet Indoor Dry Cat Food
  • Formulated for indoor cats, suitable for Russian Blues
  • Natural fiber blend to support digestive health
  • Contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals for overall health
Orijen Cat & Kitten Dry Food
  • High-quality, biologically appropriate ingredients
  • Contains 85% animal ingredients, including fresh or raw meats
  • Supports lean muscle mass and overall health
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dry Cat Food
  • Ideal for Russian Blues with sensitive skin and stomachs
  • Made with easily digestible, high-quality protein sources
  • Contains prebiotic fiber for digestive health
Weruva Grain-Free Canned Wet Cat Food
  • Grain-free and gluten-free wet cat food
  • Contains high-quality protein sources like chicken, fish, or beef
  • Supports hydration and urinary health

If you are looking for food for your Russian Blue Kitten, refer to our previous article.

Note that the nutrition required by Russian Blue Kitten differs from what an adult Russian Blue requires.

Additional Things You Need To Know About Russian Blue Cat

Your Russian Blue Cats’ good health does depend on the quantity and quality of food you feed.

Moreover, it also depends on eating habits and preferences.

So, proper management is necessary as well, instead of just serving whatever to your Russian cat.

Below are the other considerations to keep in mind and apply so that you can protect your Russian Blue Cat from illness.

Water Consumption

Hydration is an essential part of maintaining your Russian Blue Cat’s overall health and well-being. Water plays a critical role in a cat’s body, aiding in digestion, regulating body temperature, and removing waste products from the body.

Kittens need between 3.5–4.5 ounces of water, while the average adult cat should be drinking 7-9 ounces of water. 

However, Russian Blue Cats, like many other cats, can be notoriously bad at drinking enough water.

Here are some tips for ensuring that your Russian Blue Cat stays properly hydrated:

  • Provide fresh and clean water: Ensure that your cat has access to fresh and clean water at all times. Change the water frequently, and make sure that the water bowl is cleaned daily to avoid bacteria build-up.
  • Offer wet food: Wet food is a great way to increase your cat’s water intake. Canned cat food contains a lot of moisture and can help keep your cat hydrated.
  • Add water to dry food: If your cat prefers dry food, consider adding a little bit of water to it. This can make it more appealing to your cat and can help increase their water intake.
  • Use a pet fountain: Some cats prefer to drink running water, and a pet fountain can encourage them to drink more water. The running water can also help keep the water fresh and oxygenated.
  • Monitor your cat’s water intake: Keep an eye on how much water your cat is drinking. If you notice that your cat is drinking less than usual, it may be a sign of dehydration, and you should consult with your veterinarian.

Homemade Food and Raw meat diet

You can prepare food for your Russian Blue Cat at home as long as it’s meat-based, nutritionally balanced, and free of potentially harmful ingredients.

While it may be time-consuming, it’s not difficult or complicated to make if you can follow a variety of simple recipes that cater to different flavors.

You can find more information about carefully designed cooked recipes on the Internet.

When it comes to raw meat, you should be cautious about feeding it to your cat because raw food tends to carry bacteria that could be harmful to their health.

Nowadays, cat owners are considering a BARF (biologically Appropriate Raw Food) diet for their pets, consisting of raw fresh meat to match a cat’s natural diet.

However, it’s better to consult with a vet to get suggestions on raw meats for your Russian Blue Cat.

Food Allergies

Russian Blue Cats are prone to food allergies, and owners should be aware of and pay attention to the signs.

The most common symptoms include licking the affected areas, scratching, vomiting, and frequent ear infections.

Typically, the legs, belly, face, and ears are most susceptible to this problem, with noticeably thinner or shortened hair in those areas or red, sore skin lesions.

It is important to be aware that some home-cooked foods can contain allergens that are harmful to your cat, and owners should recognize this to provide treatment as soon as possible.

Your Russian Blue Cat Diet Plan

It is better to establish an appropriate diet plan for your cat to be healthier and stick with it until the need for change.

Russian Blue Cats are meat eaters, and their stomachs can only digest small amounts of carbohydrates.

So, it is necessary to feed your cat a diet that is high in animal-based protein. Also, balanced ingredients to get the proper nutrition for your cat to stay happy and healthy.

(Note: You can consult with the vet to be more sure about choosing the proper diet for your Russian blue.)

To make your cat diet plan easy, I have made the following process you can get started with:

Make a Meal Time Schedule

Developing a diet plan for your Russian Blue Cat is crucial for their overall health and well-being.

A regular feeding schedule is an important aspect of this plan, as it helps your cat adjust to changes in their diet and reduces the risk of overheating or missed meals.

Regular meal times also make it easier to observe your cat’s eating habits and notice any changes, such as a decrease or increase in appetite or disinterest in certain foods.

For adult Russian Blue Cats, it is recommended to feed them two small meals per day – one in the morning and one in the evening.

On the other hand, Kittens may require more frequent feedings, such as 4-5 small meals per day.

While Russian Blues enjoy eating, letting them eat whenever they want can lead to obesity. Remember, you are working towards a healthy diet plan for your cat’s long-term well-being, so don’t be fooled by their protests or tricks to get more food.

Stick to the plan and consult with your veterinarian to ensure your cat gets the appropriate nutrients and portion sizes for their needs.

Feed Lots of Animal-Based Protein

As obligate carnivores, Russian Blue requires a diet that primarily consists of animal-based proteins like meat, as opposed to plant-based proteins like grains or vegetables.

This is because their metabolic systems are designed to utilize animal proteins more efficiently than plant proteins.

By prioritizing animal-based proteins in their diet, you can ensure that your cat is getting the necessary nutrients to support its immune system, maintain a healthy weight, and prevent various health issues.

Be sure to consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate diet plan and portion sizes for your individual cat’s needs.

Avoid Feeding Too Many Carbohydrates

Every cat, in its natural setting, would not consume the high level of carbohydrates like grains, potatoes, peas, etc., and so with the Russian Blue Cats too.

It is recommended to serve your cat a high-moisture, meat-based diet, with a moderate level of fat and with only approximately 1-2 percent of carbohydrates containing food.

Wet Canned Food is Better than Dry Food

Cats, by nature, do not get enough water, so they need to ingest a water-rich diet.

Therefore, Wet food is better for cats when choosing as it meets a cat’s nutritional needs better than dry food.

Most importantly, the cat’s bowl should be cleaned every time after serving wet food since it can build up bacteria. However, beware of the very low-quality wet food in the market.

Some Human Foods Can Be Fed Sometime

You can give small pieces of fresh rinsed meat or fish to your cats as treats.

Boiled eggs, fat-free dairy products, and sweet potatoes can be fed too to your Russian Blue Cats.

However, there are many human foods your cat should not eat, including chocolate or spices.

Different Methods To Feed Your Russian Blue

When it comes to feeding your Russian Blue Cat, there are several methods to choose from, including meal feeding, free feeding, and combination feeding.

Meal feeding means providing your cat with canned or dry food only at specific times during the day.

This method allows you to closely monitor your cat’s food intake and easily adjust their diet to meet their nutritional needs.

Free feeding means making food available to your cat at all times during the day.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that wet food should not be left out for too long as it can lead to bacterial growth.

Combination feeding involves giving your cat canned wet food twice per day and dry food available throughout the day.

This method allows your cat to eat on their own schedule while also getting the nutritional benefits of both wet and dry food.

Of these methods, meal feeding is likely the best option for your Russian Blue Cat.

These cats are prone to weight gain, so free feeding puts them at a higher risk for health problems.

With meal feeding, you can provide your cat with the appropriate amount of food to maintain their body condition and serve them their preferred wet or dry food recipes.

Overall, if you want your Russian Blue Cat to lead a balanced and active life, meal feeding is the healthier option.

Also Read: How To Care For A Russian Blue Cat | Proper Parenting Guide

What Not To Feed Russian Blue Cat?

Though Russian Blue Cats love to eat different food, many foods are toxic to them.

That causes some serious health problems and even shortens their lives.

Here is a list of foods that Russian Blue Cat should not eat:

  • fatty meat (pork, lamb/sheep) can damage the cat’s liver
  • food from your table (smoked, fried, sour, spicy, or containing a sauce)
  • Chocolates, Sweets in general
  • Soy, gluten
  • Alcohol
  • Dogs food
  • Fatty fish could infect your Russian Blue Cat with parasites
  • Corn, high carbohydrate food

Common Dietary Issues in Russian Blue Cats

Russian Blue Cats are generally healthy and have no specific dietary issues.

However, like all cats, they can be prone to certain health problems related to their diet.

Here are some of the most common dietary issues that Russian Blue Cats may face:

Overweight or obesity

Russian Blue Cats can gain weight easily if they consume too much food or don’t get enough exercise.

Being overweight or obese can lead to a range of health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems.

Urinary tract problems

Some Russian Blue Cats may be prone to urinary tract problems, including urinary blockages and infections.

Feeding a diet that is too high in minerals or certain types of protein can increase the risk of these issues.

Food allergies

Some Russian Blue Cats may be allergic to certain types of food, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or skin irritation.

Identifying and avoiding problematic food is the key to managing food allergies in cats.

Dental problems

Poor dental hygiene can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues in Russian Blue Cats.

Feeding a diet that promotes good dental health, such as one that includes crunchy kibble, can help prevent these problems.

Conclusion

Russian Blue is a rare cat breed with a gentle & loyal nature, and so they deserve the proper care and a diet plan with high-quality nutrition.

Without a regular feeding schedule, you are more likely to put your cat’s health in danger by overfeeding.

So, make a schedule and stick to it instead of free-range feeding. It’s even better to consult a trusted professional vet about your cat’s health, habits, and suggestions on a food diet.

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