By Fabian Barcelo, Founder & Veterinary Scientist
Vet-reviewed
Cats are obligate carnivores, which is a scientific way of saying they are built to run on meat. Protein is not just important for cats, it is essential in a way it is not for dogs or people. At Innovet, we are often asked whether cats need extra protein and how treats and pet supplements fit in. Here is what every Australian cat owner should know.
Key takeaways
- As obligate carnivores, cats rely on animal protein for energy and for nutrients such as taurine that they must get from food.
- A complete, balanced cat food usually covers their needs. Quality and the right balance matter more than simply piling on protein.
- Use protein-rich treats within about 10% of daily intake, and check with your vet before changes, especially for senior or unwell cats.
01Why protein is central for cats
Unlike dogs, cats cannot thrive on a low-protein diet. They rely on animal protein for energy and for specific nutrients such as taurine, an amino acid that cats must get from their food. This is why a quality, meat-based diet is the foundation of feline health.
02Do cats need extra protein?
A complete, balanced cat food is formulated to provide the protein a healthy cat needs, so extra is not automatically required. What matters more is quality and the right balance for your cat's life stage. Kittens and some senior cats have particular needs, which is where a little extra attention helps.
03Quality matters more than quantity
Look for diets and treats led by a named animal protein rather than plant fillers, since cats use animal protein most efficiently. Simply piling on protein is not the goal. Suitable, high-quality sources are.
04Treats as a protein top-up
A protein-rich treat such as BoostBites+, made with tuna, is a handy way to reward your cat and to coax a nervous or fussy cat to engage, while keeping treats within the sensible 10% of daily intake. Our high-protein treats guide has more.
The treat rule
Keep treats to around 10% of daily intake
Protein-rich treats like a tuna-based reward are a great way to engage a fussy or nervous cat, as long as they stay within roughly a tenth of what your cat eats each day. The complete diet does the heavy lifting.
05Senior cats and muscle
Older cats can lose muscle condition, and protein plays a role in maintaining it. If your senior cat is losing weight or muscle, speak with your vet, and see our broader guide to cat supplements for the full picture.
06When to involve your vet
Kidney disease is common in older cats and changes protein requirements, so always check with your vet before adjusting your cat's protein intake, particularly for a senior or unwell cat.
Kidney disease is common in older cats and changes how much protein is appropriate. Always check with your vet before adjusting a senior or unwell cat's protein intake.
For cats, protein is non-negotiable. Feed a quality meat-based diet, reward with good protein treats in moderation, and lean on your vet for any cat with special needs.
Frequently asked questions
Do cats need more protein than dogs?
Yes, proportionally. As obligate carnivores, cats have higher protein needs and require nutrients like taurine from animal sources.
Can I give my cat extra protein?
A balanced diet usually covers their needs. Use quality treats within sensible limits, and check with your vet before significant changes, especially for senior cats.
Are tuna treats good for cats?
A quality tuna treat is a tasty, protein-rich reward in moderation, kept within about 10% of daily intake.
What about senior cats losing muscle?
Protein supports muscle, but muscle loss can have medical causes, so have your vet assess any senior cat that is losing condition.
Protein-rich rewards cats love
BoostBites+ is a human-grade, tuna-based treat for cats and dogs, made in Australia.
Shop BoostBites+Human-grade · Australian-made
