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Not all protein sources are the same. Cats are carnivores, and IAMS™ cat food contains animal-based proteins that provide all the essential amino acid requirements for cats. We use only high-quality, highly digestible protein sources.
Unique Fatty Acids in Our Foods
Fatty acids are a key part of complete cat nutrition. They maintain healthy skin, a shiny coat, proper membrane structure, and overall health. All IAMS products contain sources of these fatty acids.
Moderately Fermentable Fiber
Our research has shown that moderately fermentable fiber enhances intestinal health. All IAMS cat foods contain a fiber system of moderately fermentable fiber to help keep your cat's digestive system healthy, providing energy for intestinal cells and bulk for mobility.
Your cat’s skin and coat help keep viruses and bacteria from entering the body and prevent water and heat from leaving it. And because nutrients such as protein, fat, vitamins and minerals play crucial roles in your cat’s skin and coat health, it’s important to make sure your cat is receiving the right types and amounts. IAMS™ cat foods are designed to provide your cat with the nutrition they need to support their skin and coat health.
Without Proper Nutrition
With Proper Nutrition
Your cat’s hair coat is composed almost entirely of protein. If your cat’s diet doesn’t contain enough quality protein, her hair may fall out or become dry, weak and brittle.
But not all proteins are alike. Proteins are found in both animal- and plant-based ingredients. Animal-based proteins contain all of the essential amino acids cats need, while plant-based proteins may contain only some. Cats need the nutrients in animal-based protein sources for the best health.
Fats also can be found in both animal- and plant-based ingredients, and are incorporated into skin cells as fatty acids. Three fatty acids help maintain your cat’s skin and coat condition:
Without these fatty acids, cats may experience a dull, dry coat, hair loss and greasy skin.
To promote your cat’s skin health and elasticity, make sure to provide clean, fresh water at all times.
Most cat foods contain more than the required amount of linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid. However, IAMS research shows that it is not just the amount, but the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids that is most beneficial to cats.
The optimal omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratio to maintain a healthy skin and coat in cats is between 5:1 and 10:1. In other words, five to 10 omega-6 fatty acids should be present for every one omega-3 fatty acid.
Vitamins and minerals are essential for the development of healthy skin and coat. The best way to provide them is through a complete and balanced diet rather than through supplements.
| Vitamin or Mineral | Role in Skin and Coat Health |
| Vitamin A | Necessary for growth and repair of skin |
| Vitamin E | An antioxidant that helps maintain the health of skin cells |
| Vitamin C | An antioxidant that helps maintain the health of skin cells |
| Biotin | Aids in the utilization of protein |
| Riboflavin (B2) | Necessary for fat and protein metabolism |
| Zinc | Necessary for fat and protein metabolism |
| Copper | Involved in tissue, pigment, and protein synthesis |
The protein, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals in your cat’s food all play a vital role in your cat’s skin condition and coat health. While other factors, including the season and your cat’s age, can also affect the health of your cat’s hair and skin, optimal nutrition can help support a shiny coat and healthy skin.
