Ran Out Of Cat Food, What Are The Alternatives In Pakistan?

If you are a cat owner, you already know the worry of ending your cat’s regular food. The problem is more severe if your cat is a picky eater. Cat parents in Pakistan also have to worry about the availability of their cat’s favorite food due to import problems.

However, there are many alternatives to consider if you run out of cat food.

Alternative Ways to Feed Your Cat in Absence of Regular Cat Food

Consider Human Foods your Cat can Eat

Cooked Fish: Fish like salmon and tuna are a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help keep a cat’s coat shiny and support their immune system. Ensure the fish is cooked and free from bones.

Cooked Eggs: Eggs are another excellent protein source and contain amino acids and vitamins beneficial for cats. They must be cooked to avoid the risk of salmonella.

Cooked Meat: Chicken, turkey, and lean beef are good for cats, providing them with necessary protein. Meat should be cooked without any seasonings or sauces and cut into small, manageable pieces.

Cheese: In small quantities, cheese can be a good treat for cats, especially hard cheeses like cheddar. However, some cats may be lactose intolerant, so start with tiny amounts.

Bananas: Bananas are safe for cats in small amounts and can provide potassium. They should be given sparingly due to their sugar content.

Blueberries: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, blueberries are a healthy snack for cats. They can also be frozen for a crunchy treat.

Melon: Watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew are safe for cats and can help hydrate them. Remove the seeds and rind to prevent choking.

Carrots: Cooked carrots are a good source of vitamins and can be added to a cat’s diet. They should be cooked to soften them and cut into small pieces.

Pumpkin: Plain, cooked pumpkin is beneficial for a cat’s digestive health and can help with hairballs and diarrhea. Ensure it’s plain and not the spiced pie filling.

Green Beans: Green beans are a low-calorie treat that can be good for overweight cats. They can be served cooked or raw, chopped into small pieces.

Order online

Many online cat food retailers in Pakistan offer same-day or next-day delivery. They are a great option for everyone worried about ending cat food in Pakistan. It helps you buy your cat’s favorite food and deliver it to your doorstep without hassle.

Visit a Nearby Pet Food Shop

Another viable alternative is to visit a nearby cat shop if you have time. However, this option isn’t too instant compared to feeding safe human foods to your cat.

Make Cat Food at Home

You can also make cat food at home for your pet. It may take some time and effort as you will have to cook the recipes. Your cat may not eat homemade food if he is accustomed to only commercial food. However, there is no harm in trying; if your cat likes homemade food, it can solve the problem of finished cat food for good.

Human Foods your Cat must never eat

Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to cats and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and even seizures.

Onions and Garlic: These foods contain compounds that can damage a cat’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. Symptoms of toxicity include weakness, vomiting, and breathlessness.

Grapes and Raisins: Even in small amounts, grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in cats. Symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, and decreased urination.

Xylitol: This sweetener found in gum, candy, and some diet foods can lead to liver failure and hypoglycemia in cats, with symptoms including vomiting, lethargy, and loss of coordination.

Caffeine: Found in coffee, tea, soda, and energy drinks, caffeine can be fatal to cats and there is no antidote. Symptoms of caffeine poisoning include restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and muscle tremors.

Raw Eggs: Raw eggs may contain salmonella and can cause food poisoning in cats. Additionally, a protein in raw egg whites can interfere with the absorption of the vitamin biotin, causing skin and coat problems.

Raw Meat and Fish: Like raw eggs, raw meat and fish can contain bacteria that cause food poisoning. Certain raw fish can also deplete thiamine, an essential B vitamin, leading to serious neurological problems.

Dairy Products: Many cats are lactose intolerant and cannot process dairy properly, leading to digestive upset, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Tips to Ensure You Don’t Run Out of Cat Food

Establish a Feeding Schedule: By feeding your cat regularly each day, you can more accurately predict how much food you’ll need over a given period. This routine helps manage your cat’s dietary health and allows you to monitor food levels closely and reorder before running low.

Buy in Bulk: Purchasing cat food in bulk can save money in the long run and ensure you have a steady supply. However, it’s important to store the food properly to maintain its freshness and nutritional value, especially if buying large quantities of dry food.

Set Up Auto-Delivery: Many pet supply stores and online retailers offer auto-delivery services that automatically ship cat food at regular intervals. This convenient service helps eliminate the worry of forgetting to restock and ensures a continuous supply without last-minute shopping trips.

Keep a Backup: Always have an extra bag or can of your cat’s food stored away as a backup. This safety net is particularly useful in case of unexpected delays with your usual purchase method or if your cat’s food is temporarily out of stock.

Monitor Consumption: Keep track of how quickly your cat goes through food and adjust your purchasing habits accordingly. If you notice an increase in consumption, it might be time to buy slightly larger quantities or increase the frequency of your purchases.

Use Reminders: Set reminders on your phone or calendar to check your cat food supply weekly and to place orders when needed. This simple habit can prevent you from being caught off guard by a suddenly empty food container.