Although insects are consumed regularly in many countries around the world, the truth is that in our environment they are still an exotic and very occasional component. Likewise, it is not the ingredient that we will commonly find in cat feed, but there are already some brands that do offer this alternative.
The lack of habit leads many caregivers to be reluctant to use it, but the truth is that resorting to protein from insects can be a very good alternative that offers interesting benefits for both our cat as for the conservation of the planet. And don't forget that cats, in the wild, include insects in their diet whenever they can. For all these reasons, in this article on our site, we will talk in depth about the benefits of insect-based protein, both for cats and for the planet.
What is insect protein?
As its name suggests, insect protein is the one that comes from some of these animals, since there are different species that can be used for consumption. But we are not talking about capturing insects and making feed with them. The insects used to manufacture these feedstuffs are chosen for their nutritional qualities and come from controlled breeding to guarantee their quality and safety.
At Catit we have just launched our first cat food made from insect protein: Catit Nuna The insects we use in our recipes grow completely naturally and do not transmit diseases. Now, how exactly do we make this feed?
How is Catit feed made from insect protein?
Made in Canada, Catit Nuna is a premium feed for cats made based on Hermetia illucens fly larvae, which stand out for their its high protein content, its low level of carbohydrates, vitamins, omega 6, calcium, phosphorus and zinc. They are easy-to-digest nutrients and some of them are in higher amounts than those found in beef or chicken.
These larvae are sustainably farmed in Canada, the US and Europe They feed on grains, fruits and vegetables that are not humans consume. The larvae are allowed to dry and are ground to obtain a fine flour with which the feed is made. You will not find any insects in the bag! The result is a complete and balanced feed In addition to insect protein, Catit Nuna feed contains high quality ingredients.
On the other hand, it is manufactured using a technology that emits less CO2, at less than 100º, mainly with mechanical energy and with a smaller amount of thermal energy, which contributes to the maintenance of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals or antioxidants and to preserve the freshness of the food. To facilitate adaptation to a feed based on insects, which are still not a widely used ingredient in our environment, at Catit we also include a small amount of traditional protein, in the form of chicken and fish meat, specifically herring, with the goal of making the product more accessible to a wider audience. Chickens are raised in veterinary-reviewed, antibiotic- and hormone-free facilities. For its part, the Atlantic herring is obtained in a sustainable way, as evidenced by the MSC certificate. Other outstanding ingredients are taurine, omegas 3 and 6, millet or legumes such as lentils and peas. Contains no gluten, soy, corn, wheat or rice. Learn more about our Catit Nuna feed ranges and choose the one that can be most beneficial for your cat.
Benefits of insect protein for cats
Cats, as carnivorous animals, need a diet based on protein of animal origin, whether it comes from meat, fish or, as in the case at hand, from insects. Insect protein, in addition to nutrients, offers cats a great digestibility, a correct supply of fiber and, in general, an improvement in their he alth. In addition, the result is a tasty food, which makes it easier for the cat to accept.
If you have noticed that your cat does not want to eat food, it is possible that the current one does not like it, therefore, a change is always one of the first measures to take into account in these situations. We know that cats are very exquisite animals, it is for this reason that offering them a quality, balanced diet, rich in protein and with a lot of flavor is essential to maintain good he alth in these animals and ensure, in turn, that they enjoy their food.
Benefits of insect protein for the caregiver
This type of feed not only provides benefits for the cat, it also has advantages for you. The feed containing insect protein produces a feeling of satiety and feeds more, due to its nutritional quality. For this reason, a bag of this feed will last longer than the same kilos of a feed with another source of protein.
Benefits of insect protein for the planet
Protein from insects can not only be a good option for the cat nutritionally, but also offers a great advantage for the planet, since is a protein more sustainable In fact, Catit Nuna feed contains up to 92% sustainable protein. This means that the ecological footprint left in its extraction is much less than that left to obtain other proteins of animal origin. For example, the ecological impact produced by obtaining meat translates into the emission of large amounts of carbon dioxide, which is a greenhouse gas. Therefore, it can be said that protein from insects is more ecological.
The larvae feed on cereals, fruits and vegetables that would otherwise be thrown away and hardly consume any water, which represents a great saving of resourcesInsect farms are arranged vertically, also saving space. On the other hand, chicken or beef is not used for consumption in its entirety, which is the case with insects. Finally, the container in which the feed is marketed is made of low-density polyethylene or LDPE, so it can be recycled.
Can I give my cat insect protein?
In conclusion, feed made from insect protein is a valid option for any cat It is true that many specimens show reluctant to changes, but this rejection can be minimized if we make the change of feed gradually to give the cat time to get used to it. In this other article we explain how this process should be: “How to change a cat's food”. In addition, for the most fussy cats, the feed includes small amounts of meat or fish, so that the taste is still very appetizing.
On the other hand, there are cats for which insect-based feed is especially recommended. They are those who have a food allergy that makes it advisable to offer them a diet based on a protein that they have not previously consumed. This feed can also be given together with another type of food or as a reward. Its consumption can start from weaning.
Are you thinking of introducing Catit Nuna in your cat's diet? Then visit the website and choose the variety you like best.
