Estonia
Tallinn
Британские кошки
Короткошерстные Серебристые и Золотые
Шиншиллы.
Питомник MARVELL
Nutrition
Dry Food
If a cat eats dry food, then the food should be premium-class. This is the basics. We always keep a bowl with dry food freely available to our cats. A feeding schedule with dry food, as is sometimes recommended for certain breeds of cats or for dogs, is simply not suitable for our breed.
Our cats eat it in small amounts, making many visits to the bowl throughout the day. They simply cannot physically eat a large amount of this type of food at once, unlike wet food.
Our cats absolutely love wet food. They usually receive it once a day — 85–100 g, if the cat regularly eats dry food. We also have cats that simply do not want to eat dry food, in which case the amount of wet food will, of course, be greater.
Feeding guidelines are usually indicated on the packaging, but here you should also take into account the individual characteristics of each animal. The recommended amounts may vary, either upwards or downwards.
Cats eat wet food differently: some eat almost the entire portion at once, while others prefer to eat small amounts over a period of time. This ultimately depends on the individual preferences and characteristics of each animal.
Our cats eat Royal Canin dry food.
We are happy with this food.
Premium-quality food can be purchased at pet stores and veterinary clinics, but prices there are often “biting” — significantly higher than their actual cost. Prices in online stores are noticeably lower. A good option is to order directly from the German website zooplus.de.
There is also a branch in Lithuania, zoochic-eu.ru, where the prices are already adapted “for the Baltics” — higher than in Germany, although still more выгодно than in local pet stores.
With any of these online stores, you will save a significant amount of money. For the same amount you would spend on food in a local store, you can also purchase other necessary items. 😊 Buying food in bulk makes a particularly noticeable difference; on average, multiply the savings by two (x2).
Depending on your place of residence and other personal preferences. Amazon.de is a new store for me. It immediately caught my attention with its wide selection of products and large assortment. The prices are inspiring with their variety, especially on days when there are good discounts. Then the best offer of all for the same product will be on Amazon. + Free delivery is also available.
Zooplus (Germany) – there are often promotions and discounts, as well as a bonus program that allows you to use the bonuses to pay for future purchases. Sometimes it is more выгодно to order from Germany even when taking the delivery cost into account. Interestingly, recently some products on the Lithuanian website (Zoochic) have been cheaper than on the German one, so registering on both platforms definitely won’t be unnecessary. The difference is not just a couple of euros – sometimes it can be tens of euros on a single order, especially when buying in bulk. The savings can be really significant 💰
Some kittens categorically refuse to eat dry food, but are happy to eat it when it is softened. It is enough to mix in just a small amount of wet food, 25% wet food to 75% dry food. Others eat a 50/50 mixture normally. However, especially at the beginning, softened dry food is usually mixed with only 1/4 wet food, that is, approximately 25%. There is also a category of kittens that will not accept dry food in any form. In this case, you need to add it very carefully, in very small amounts, and increase the proportions over a longer period of time. If you overdo it or rush the process, kittens simply refuse to eat it, and you have to open a new package to dilute the mixture. Those kittens that already eat enough dry food in its dry form usually do not want to accept it when it is softened. If necessary, mix it in very small proportions. They eat reluctantly and without much appetite.
Here it is important to take into account the individual preferences of your pet and choose a suitable solution.
Wet Food
We definitely recommend premium-quality food. If your budget allows, the following brands are worth considering: Applaws, Cosma, Royal Canin, Miamor. If your pet eats dry food, then the daily amount usually includes an additional 85–100 g of wet food per day (one can or pouch).
Options are available both in pouches and cans.
Applaws makes very good food, both wet and dry.
I also consider some brands of lower-class wet food to be quite acceptable. No matter what anyone may claim to the contrary, and regardless of the “standard” recommendations that are often given, many of them can easily outperform some “human” convenience foods. The main rule remains unchanged: an opened package can be stored for no more than 12 hours, and the daily amount is 1–2 pouches (85–170 g), depending on the animal’s age and needs. Be sure to pay attention to the expiration date. Unfortunately, no one is protected from a poor-quality product — whether due to improper storage or unscrupulous suppliers. Particular caution should be exercised with products that are sold at clearly inflated prices, remain on the shelves for a long time, and are not in demand. It is precisely such products that can pose a real danger — even to the point of causing poisoning in the animal. To be honest, I am quite skeptical about such products. Prices for pet products in general are often unreasonably high and do not correspond to the standard of living and habits of most people. This is especially noticeable not in large cities, but, for example, in Ida-Viru County, where the purchasing power of the population is quite different.
Current Wet Foods in Our Cattery
With wet food, it is much easier in some ways than with dry food. Our kittens happily eat different canned foods, so there should be no problems here. However, if possible, make the transition gradually. A kitten’s intestines and microflora are not yet fully developed, so it can still be difficult for them to adapt to new ingredients.
A sudden change of food can cause:
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diarrhea 💩
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vomiting 🤢
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bloating or colic
Natural Food
Here it is important to remember one simple rule. Food should not contain salt, sugar, or any kind of spices. Therefore, our food, so to speak, straight from the family pot, is absolutely not suitable for cats.
Forbidden Foods for Cats
❌ Salt, sugar, various spices, smoked foods, fatty foods, garlic, onions, paprika. Accordingly, meat rolls, sausages, frankfurters, ham, ...
What makes spices, smoked foods, ham, sausages, meat rolls and similar products harmful to cats:
🧂 1. Salt and spices
Cats have very sensitive kidneys and liver, and salt can quickly overload them. Spices (pepper, garlic, onion, paprika, etc.) can cause inflammation of the stomach lining, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Even small amounts of onion and garlic can lead to anemia (destruction of red blood cells) — they are officially toxic to cats.
🍖 2. Smoked foods (ham, sausages, meat rolls, bacon, etc.)
Smoked foods contain nitrites, flavorings and carcinogens that can damage the liver and pancreas. They are also high in salt and fat, which can lead to pancreatitis and gastrointestinal problems. Ham and sausages often contain sugar, soy additives and preservatives, which are not suitable for cats.
🧈 3. Fat and fillers in sausage products
Excessive fat can lead to obesity, as well as liver and joint problems. Starch, flour, soy and flavorings are substances that cats cannot digest properly.
⚠️ 4. Summary
Regular consumption of such products can lead to:
chronic liver failure, pancreatitis, gastritis and diarrhea, allergies and hair loss, kidney problems.
Foods That Can Be Safely and Beneficially Given to Cats
💜 Vegetables, meat, seafood, dairy products.
✅ Meat
Raw meat – healthy, but it can be dangerous, especially store-bought minced meat, which cannot even be properly washed. The meat must be extremely fresh and should be given raw after deep freezing, finely cut into small pieces or in the form of homemade minced meat (made yourself, ground through a meat grinder 😊). If you are not 100% sure about the quality, it is better not to take the risk and, before giving it to your cat, boil the meat. Then the animal will definitely not get food poisoning.
Beef fillet and chicken breast are good choices. The meat should not be fatty, so pork is not recommended.
Cooked meat – healthy and safe. Just like raw meat, it should be finely chopped. You can also give boiled minced meat, which can be store-bought. Poultry, beef and rabbit are suitable. It is better to choose fillet and lean meat.
✅ Seafood
Boiled fish and shrimp. Boneless and peeled.
✅ Dairy and Fermented Dairy Products
Kefir, cat milk, cream, cottage cheese, sour cream – can be given in small amounts.
✅ Vegetables
Cats are obligate (strict) carnivores, meaning their bodies are adapted primarily to a diet of animal proteins and fats. However, small amounts of vegetables, especially cooked ones, can be beneficial as an additional source of fiber, vitamins and water.
Here is how cooked vegetables can benefit a cat:
🥕 1. Fiber for digestion
Helps improve intestinal motility. May help with constipation or prevent the formation of hairballs (trichobezoars). Pumpkin, zucchini, carrots and broccoli are especially useful in very small amounts.
🥦 2. Vitamins and minerals (in small amounts)
Cooked vegetables contain small amounts of vitamins A, C and K, as well as potassium. For example, pumpkin is rich in beta-carotene, which is safe in contrast to pure vitamin A, which can be toxic in excessive amounts.
💧 3. Additional moisture
Cooked vegetables contain a lot of water, which can help maintain hydration, especially if a cat does not drink much.
⚠️ But there are important limitations:
Vegetables should only be given as an addition (5–10% of the diet), not as the main food. They should be given without salt, oil, spices, onions or garlic — these additions are toxic to cats. Not all vegetables are safe:
❌ Do not give: onions, garlic, raw potatoes, eggplant, avocado, grapes, leek.
✅ Safe in moderate amounts, boiled or steamed: pumpkin, zucchini, carrots, cauliflower, broccoli and green peas.
🐾 Example:
You can occasionally add a teaspoon of cooked pumpkin or zucchini to your cat's food — it can be beneficial for digestion and is safe.
Dishes
Bowls for Wet Food
For wet food, the smaller and shallower the dish, the better; ideally, it should be completely flat if possible. This makes it easier to choose the right width. As you know, a cat’s whiskers should not touch the edges of the bowl. For dry food, deeper bowls with wide edges are preferable.
🥣 Bowl Material
✅ Either stainless steel or ceramic.
Both options are good, and both have their advantages and disadvantages. So this is mainly a matter of personal preference.
Our choice is ceramic. Its only disadvantage is that it can break. Stainless steel bowls can create reflections that some cats may be frightened by. The shapes and sizes of this type of dishware are usually quite standard. In my opinion, these options are still more suitable for dogs. For them, this type of bowl is ideal.
Advantages
Stainless Steel
✔ Hygienic and does not absorb odors
✔ Easy to wash and dishwasher-safe
✔ Does not break, crack or scratch easily
🧼 Ceramic / Porcelain
✔ Hygienic
✔ Attractive and stable
✔ Does not absorb odors
✔ Comfortable for animals with sensitive whiskers, especially cats Based on my personal observations, water stays fresh longer in ceramic bowls.
Plastic Bowls
Plastic bowls are strongly not recommended for use, especially on a permanent basis. They scratch and wear out quickly, are difficult to clean properly, absorb odors, and develop microcracks where food and water residues can accumulate, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and mold. This can cause allergic reactions in animals and, in severe cases, even poisoning.
Chemical substances
Cheap plastic may contain BPA, phthalates and other substances that are undesirable for prolonged contact with food and water. When heated (for example, in direct sunlight), these substances may be released more actively.
👉 Therefore, plastic is acceptable only as a temporary option — when travelling, at a summer house, or for a short period. For permanent use, it is better to choose stainless steel or high-quality ceramic.
🏺 Ceramic and Porcelain Bowls
Often considered the best choice for cats.
🥇 Stainless Steel
Usually considered a universal option, especially for dogs.
📝 Conclusion
When choosing a bowl for your cat, consider not only the price and appearance, but also the behavior and preferences of your pet.
👉 A high-quality ceramic or porcelain bowl without cracks is an optimal choice for most cats.
👉 Stainless steel may be suitable for calm animals, but its specific features should be taken into account.
👉 Plastic is best left as a temporary solution.
🐱 The right bowl means comfort, peace of mind and healthy eating habits for your pet.
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1st option – plastic ❌
2nd option – double bowl ❌
3rd option – plastic + double bowl ❌
4th option – double bowl ❌
As an option for travelling or temporary use.
**Double and triple bowls are extremely impractical and inconvenient to use.** If we assume that one bowl is intended for wet food, then what is the second one for? Water? Dry food? This type of bowl is only suitable for temporary use, for example, if you have two animals and want to serve them both at the same time. **The stainless-steel version is even more inconvenient.** These bowls are extremely awkward to handle: even when they are simply standing on the floor, you have to put your fingers inside the bowl just to lift it. And, of course, the bowl has to be at least empty. Again, the question arises: what is the second bowl for? It is not suitable for water because of its size — the water will stand there for too long, and the surface will gradually become covered with slime. So, you end up putting dry food in one bowl and wet food in the other. At the same time, no matter how you look at it, the tabletop gets dirty and also needs to be cleaned constantly. This means that both bowls still have to be removed, regardless of what is in the second one. Water or liquid from wet food constantly spills onto the tabletop. The coating eventually swells and peels off, rust appears, etc. Again, if you have two cats, you can put dry food in both bowls. Or you may end up using both bowls for just one cat. Usually, in the end, the tabletop simply gets thrown away, while the bowls remain. Without the rubber base, they are small and lightweight. **Good for taking on a trip. :)))))**
Good Examples
Water Bowls
Cats prefer drinking from deep and wide bowls; the larger the capacity, the better.
Litter Box
Cat Litter
For kittens, we use silica gel litter. Kittens like to taste the litter, and silica gel granules stick to the roof of the mouth, making them extremely difficult to swallow. That is why we prefer this type of litter at the beginning.
For the first few days, please buy one bag of silica gel litter and let the kitten use the type of litter he is accustomed to. Then, for several days, mix it with your preferred litter, approximately 50/50. Any silica gel litter will be suitable.
We use Tigerino.
Until now, we have ordered it from Zooplus.
Good quality at the best price.
If you have not yet decided which litter to choose and are still unsure which one to go with, I recommend taking a closer look at this option. There are many genuinely good and high-quality litters on the market, each with its own clear advantages. However, this particular one once made a very pleasant and strong impression on me, so I can confidently recommend it among the others.
It may very well become a favorite for you too.
Cat Litter Boxes
Open litter boxes with high sides.
Our cats prefer open litter boxes. High sides help keep your home clean.
This option takes both sides’ needs into account. It is the most practical and optimal choice among all standard options available.
Enclosed Litter Boxes
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1. The first option has a lift-up lid for quick and convenient cleaning. With the top left open, the litter box is perfectly suitable for permanent use. This model has secure side latches, unlike the other two options, which is especially important if the litter box needs to be moved frequently while filled with litter.
2. The second option is the budget choice. For permanent use, it is better to remove the top for the benefit of your pet, with no loss for you. The top part can be used as a second litter tray when needed.
3. The bottom section is very narrow, so even with the top in place, the usable space is minimal. The top and bottom are not only different in size but also in shape, which means they cannot be nested inside one another. Both parts are made of thin, flexible plastic that can easily crack, so the litter box should not be lifted when filled with litter. The side clip fasteners are even simpler and less secure than those on the second option; given the flexibility of the material, they are essentially only decorative. The handle on top is, accordingly, purely decorative.
Top-Entry Litter Boxes
A good option, especially because it helps maintain maximum cleanliness. In this respect, it is several times more effective than an enclosed litter box and provides sufficient ventilation.
Cats usually carry a lot of litter out on their paws and spread it around — granules stick to their paw pads and get caught between their toes. The perforated top panel of this litter box also serves as a kind of litter mat. When a cat jumps onto the top of the litter box, its paws naturally open and close during the jump, causing the litter to fall off actively onto the surface and through the holes back into the litter box. Before jumping down onto the floor, a cat usually takes several steps across the top and often does not hurry — it may even sit or sleep there for a while. The litter is naturally shaken off in the process.
Personally, this type of litter box was a real lifesaver for me when I temporarily lived in a 15 m² room with three cats for two weeks. I used silica gel litter. The litter box was new, and at the time I was amazed by the fact that the area around it stayed clean and did not need any cleaning at all for several days.
At home, I was using enclosed litter boxes without doors, and within just one day there would already be litter scattered around them. Plus, additional mats — which, of course, do not clean themselves :)) — do not really help much either.
The biggest disadvantage of a top-entry litter box is that it will not suit every cat, and not every cat will be able or willing to use it. There can actually be quite a few reasons for this.
If your cat is already over 4 years old and has never used this type of litter box before, it is better not to rush into buying one and to stick with a litter box with a standard, familiar entrance. Your cat may simply not want to or may not be able to change its long-established habits for some reason or accept such an unusual option :)).
The barrier can be either psychological or physical. The cat’s age, joint problems and various other health issues can all play a role, as well as the individual preferences of the animal.
If I had 1–3 cats in my home, this would be my choice. It is a high-quality, sturdy and very spacious litter box. We have been using it for several years now.
All our cats and kittens do not simply walk to it — they race to it! After using it for a short time, they become very attached to this particular litter box and even start competing for it.
For a while, this litter box had to “travel” around the apartment — I moved it to wherever it was needed most. Whenever this particular litter box disappeared from its usual place, the cats clearly showed their displeasure.
I noticed more than once that the cats especially liked this litter box. They got used to it quickly and thoroughly, especially after using it for a long time. They would use the enclosed litter boxes only when necessary and with obvious reluctance.
This may, of course, be a special feature of this particular litter box of ours, and another litter box of the same type may not become quite as popular :))).
Our kittens are familiar with this type of litter box with a top entrance too.))) The only exception is that the youngest group this year did not have a chance to get acquainted with it — the litter box was needed elsewhere and was moved to another location.
Important detail: this type of litter box should be large. Litter boxes come in different sizes, so pay attention to the dimensions when purchasing one. If the litter box is small, it is a completely different story.