Guide to Cats

BRITISH FAMILYCOMPANY

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For further information on a wealth of topics, visit us at

www.burgesspetcare.com

Lots of us here at Burgess are cat owners, so we’re big fans of

all things feline. And now you’ve joined our ranks by getting a

cat of your own, you’ll soon come to face the same home truth

that we all know: your cat thinks your sole purpose here on

Earth is to look after its every need. Which, to be fair, is exactly

what a responsible pet owner should be doing - and this guide

is here to help.

There’s no escaping the fact that cats can be choosy, fickle,

haughty, selfish and wilful. But once you’ve experienced the

nuzzle of a pert little whiskery nose, a leap onto your lap for

a cosy snuggle and the sound of a contented purr that all but

drowns out your TV you’ll know exactly why cats are so utterly

irresistible.

With a new cat - playful kitten or dignified senior - your first

move should be to register your pet with a vet and arrange

a general check-up. And if you’re ever concerned about your

pet’s health, see your vet immediately.

In the following few pages, you can read about choosing

your pet, health, nutrition and behaviour. Now your cat has

chosen you as its new owner, we’ll tell you everything you

need to know.

The Britishfamily pet experts

Why Burgess loves cats

A British family company

Our strong family values

and traditions are core

to the Burgess story.

For generations we

have produced the

finest quality foods for

people, pets and animals.

200 year heritage in agriculture

Our 200-year heritage

in agriculture has

helped forge strong

relationships with the

farming community

and the ingredients for

our recipes are

sourced locally

wherever possible.

Experts in animal nutrition

The health and happiness

of pets is our number

one goal and our expert

knowledge in animal

nutrition helps us achieve

this. Of course as pet

lovers ourselves, we’re also

passionate about making

great quality, tasty foods. Dr Suzanne Moyes

MVB MRCVS

TiaJon Khan

National Account Manager

CasperAlice Thorpe

Brand Manager

BatTina Craft

Veterinary Territory Manager

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A General Guide to Cat Nutrition

A Balanced DietA healthy diet needs to contain the correct amounts of:

Water Essential for life.

Protein To build and maintain muscle

and body condition. Amino

acids are the building blocks

of life.

Carbohydrates To provide energy and, with

their fibre content, help with

the passage of food.

Fats To provide energy in a

concentrated form: Omega

3 and Omega 6 are essential

fatty acids which are good for

heart, brain, joints, skin and

coat condition.

Vitamins and Minerals Required to help develop and

maintain a healthy immune

system as well as ensure good

development of bones and

teeth.

Taurine

This is an essential amino

acid required by cats for all

round good health. They need

it for things such as good

vision, heart and reproductive

functions.

These are the six key nutritional groups

All cats, from a tiger to a

tabby are ‘obligate carnivores’

- they must eat meat to

survive because it contains

essential amino acids that

they can’t make themselves.

They require high levels of

protein and generally select

food based on its temperature

(preferring food at body

temperature), smell, texture

and taste.

You can leave dry food out for

your cat to eat as it pleases.

They will take longer to eat

and will drink more water.

If you feed wet food, your cat

will eat more in one sitting,

but you wont be able to leave

the food out all day. Wet

food is best served at room

temperature at set times of

the day.

It is important that you give

them food that will deliver all

the balanced nutrients they

need, and adjust the amount

you give to keep your cat

sprightly and trim. There is

no need to restrict the diet to

dull, tasteless food.

Carbohydrates contain fibre which helps with the passage of food

Protein: to build and maintain muscle and body condition. Amino acids are the building blocks of life

Vitamins are needed for normal growth and

nourishment

Minerals are essential for bone and teeth

development

Water is essential

Fats: Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids help skin,

coat and joint condition

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Things to consider with your cat

Vaccination & preventative treatmentCats are at risk from disease – some of which can be fatal – so register yours with a vet as soon as you can. Kittens will get their first course of two vaccinations after 8 weeks and then a booster every year. They will need protection against feline enteritis and leukaemia. Some cats are also vaccinated against feline chlamydia and rabies (if you plan to travel with your cat). Your vet will be able to advise on what to protect your cat against.

FleasFlea infestations are a common problem in cats, even amongst those that don’t venture out. Cats pick up fleas from other cats, mammals (such as the ones they hunt), and dogs. Although cats and dogs are affected by different types of fleas, most fleas affect cats. Your vet will be able to advise a suitable flea prevention program.

WormsThere are a number of worms your cat can pick up, but of particular importance are roundworms and tapeworms. Kittens can pick up worms from their mother’s milk. They can cause serious problems in the gut and within 3 weeks will mature into adult worms and lay eggs. Large numbers of worms in young cats can be fatal. Kittens should therefore be wormed once a month. Adult cats can pick up roundworms, but tapeworms are more of a problem. An adult tapeworm can grow up to one metre in length. Your cat can be infected with tapeworm from fleas, other cats and from hunting. See your vet regularly to spot any signs of trouble and keep worms and fleas under control.

Micro-chippingCats love to go exploring, so book yours in at the vet to be microchipped. The chip is as small as a grain of rice and placed harmlessly under the skin between the shoulder blades. The chip stores information, easily read by a scanner, which links to your contact details on a database.

InsuranceVet bills can be expensive, so we recommend insuring your cats in case of injury or illness. There are plenty of policies to choose from – some covering more than others – so do your research and choose one that matches your needs and your budget.

NeuteringYou should always have your cat neutered unless you plan to breed from them, but this should be carefully considered first. Your vet will be able to give you specific advice, but neutering can generally take place from 12 weeks of age. Not only will it cut out unwanted kittens, it can reduce the spread of disease and stop spraying, fighting and sexual behaviour such as wandering and calling. You should keep your cat indoors until fully vaccinated and neutered.

Tia, Jon Khan - National Account Manager

76

Around 7.5 million cats in the UK mean around 7.5 million characters. You’ll soon find out what yours is like, and which of you is boss (clue: it’s not you). Once you have their trust, the affection a cat can show is truly rewarding, and well worth all the hoops they make you jump through. Individuals they may be, but there are certain common cat behaviours that you should get to know and understand.

SocialisationKittens get their social skills from mum, which is why the two should always stay together for the first 8 weeks. They live in the human world too, so plenty of contact with people is also vital – and remains so throughout your cat’s life.

Exercise and PlayTiny kitten or sleepy senior, most cats love to play. It’s good for them – they’re acting out their natural hunting behaviour – and good for your relationship. So make sure your home has some simple toys (boxes, platforms etc.) and make playtime fun.

CompanionshipIn essence cats are solitary animals but some cats can happily co–exist with other felines. However, you will need to help minimise stress in the home. Always have a litter tray per cat plus one extra. Have a feeding station per cat. If you notice any territorial behaviour such as marking or inappropriate urination please consult your vet.

Behaviour

Annie, Phil Coleman - IT Manager

Listen and look and you will get some idea of your cat’s mood. There is plenty of information available about body language, but here are some common behaviours.

PurringPeople think that purring means happiness and contentment, and often that is so, but not always. Cats will purr when they are giving birth and even when injured to release endorphins and help to calm themselves. Kittens purr to their mothers to indicate contentment.

MeowingThis is common between kittens and their mothers. They do meow to us for attention as well, which may be because we are acting like their parent.

Rubbing Cats generally meet other cats by rubbing faces. It is another way for them to spread their scent through facial glands. Any form of furry head butt, whether on the leg, hand or best of all you face should be taken as a very good sign of approval and affection.

Exposing the bellyA cat on its back having a stretch and a yawn isn’t simply having a stretch and a yawn. Exposing the vulnerable belly is a form of greeting, but more importantly, also shows a deep trust.

Tail MovementsBeware, tail flicking can mean agitation and larger sweeping movements can be a sign of anger.

Communication

Yoda & Bat, Tina Craft - Veterinary Territory Manager

98

Cats are territorial, so don’t let your existing cats meet a new cat straight away. They should get used to the newcomer’s smell first before being introduced. Establish a separate area for your new cat and swap beds or blankets so that all the cats can get used to each others’ scent for a while. Let them come face to face for short periods at first and expect hissing and fluffing – although actual fighting is rare. As long as they are provided with space and hiding places to get away from each other, eventually they will agree who’s actually boss and peace should reign.

Cats and DogsCats and dogs can actually get on really well – although a re–homed cat that has had bad canine experiences won’t be happy to see a dog. If you can, check the cat’s history to see if it has had any bad experiences, or no experiences at all. Keep your dog on a lead for the first meeting and be alert: a furious furball can damage a dog before he has had time to say hello. A gradual all–sniffing nose–to–nose introduction may see a friendship form, and if not, the two will soon learn to stay out of each other’s way. It is best to meet on neutral territory with two people reassuring and stroking them but never force close proximity.

Cats and other animals

Morph, Karen Smith RVN - Nutrition Advisor

1110

Mature Cat

With Turkey & Cranberry - 1.4kg• Glucosamine is a natural ingredient which

helps maintain healthy joints• Cranberry is widely believed to be beneficial

to the urinary tract• Taurine helps support a healthy heart• Natural antioxidants support your cat’s

immune system into its senior years• Omega fatty acids support healthy skin and

a glossy coat

Burgess complete – wholesome foods for cats

Our cat foods are made using premium ingredients to ensure

excellent quality and taste. We use Scottish salmon, locally

sourced British poultry, nutritious cereals and vegetables to help

keep your pet happy and healthy. Our unique recipes are rich

in meat protein to help maintain strong muscles and contain

essential fatty acids for a healthy skin and shiny coat. We also

add natural antioxidants to help support your cat’s immune

system and natural prebiotics for a healthy gut.

Dental health is important

Did you know, it’s estimated that up to 70% of cats develop

dental disease by the age of three? That’s why in all of our adult

cat food, we’ve included Dental Defence Technology which

contains a specialist ingredient to reduce plaque formation and

support healthy teeth and gums.

DENTAL DEFENCE

Kitten

British Chicken – 1.5kg• Smaller kibble designed to suit a kitten’s bite size• Fortified with calcium to support developing

bones and teeth• Natural antioxidants to help support your

kitten’s immune system• Highly digestible proteins and essential amino

acids to support muscle development• Prebiotics and nucleotides to support the

developing gut

Rich in Scottish Salmon - 1.5kg & 10kg• Dental Defence Technology helps maintain

healthy teeth and gums• Highly digestible proteins to support natural

carnivores• Taurine helps support a healthy heart• Omega fatty acids support healthy skin and a

glossy coat• Natural prebiotics support beneficial gut

bacteria• Natural antioxidants support your cat’s

immune system

Adult Cat

British Chicken & Duck - 1.5kg & 10kg• Dental Defence Technology helps maintain

healthy teeth and gums• Highly digestible proteins to support natural

carnivores• Taurine helps support a healthy heart• Omega fatty acids support healthy skin and a

glossy coat• Natural prebiotics support beneficial gut bacteria• Natural antioxidants support your cat’s

immune system

Reduces Plaque

Reduces Tartar

Gum Care

Immune Support

1312

Mature Cat

Kitten

Adult Cat

Burgess Kitten Chicken 1.5kgComposition: Chicken 43% (Chicken meal 27%, Chicken fat 10%, Hydrolysed poultry powder 3%, Chicken digest 3%) • Rice • Maize • Wheat • Maize gluten • Unmolassed beet pulp (3%) • Brewer’s yeast • Soya bean meal* • Fish meal (1%) • Egg (1%) • Short chain fructo-oligosaccharides (0.4%) • Potassium chloride • High nucleotide yeast (0.12%) • Salt. *May contain GM materials.Analytical Constituents: Crude Protein 32% • Fat Content 16% • Crude Fibre 1.5% • Crude Ash 6.5%.Nutritional Additives: Vitamin A (retinyl acetate) (E672) 25,000 iu/kg • Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) (E671) 2,000 iu/kg • Vitamin E (dl alpha tocopherol acetate) (3a700) 250 mg/kg • Copper (copper sulphate pentahydrate) (E4) 20 mg/kg • Iodine (calcium iodate anhydrous) (E2) 0.55 mg/kg • Iron (ferrous sulphate monohydrate) (E1) 200 mg/kg • Manganese (manganese oxide) (E5) 24.2 mg/kg • Selenium (sodium selenite) (E8) 0.33 mg/kg • Zinc (zinc sulphate monohydrate) (E6) 428.6 mg/kg • Taurine 1,500 mg/kg • Methionine 2,500 mg/kg.Technological Additives: Plant and tocopherol rich extracts of natural origin 100 mg/kg.

Burgess Adult Cat Chicken with Duck 1.5kg & 10kgComposition: Chicken with Duck 35.7% (Poultry meal 24% (min 4% Duck), Poultry fat 5.7%, Chicken digest 3%, Hydrolysed poultry powder 3%) • Maize • Rice • Wheat • Maize gluten • Unmolassed beet pulp (3%) • Fish meal (2%) • Hipro soya* • Brewer’s yeast • Short chain fructo-oligosaccharides (0.3%) • Potassium chloride • STAY-C® 50 (700mg/kg) • Salt. *May contain GM materials.Analytical Constituents: Crude Protein 30% • Fat Content 12% • Crude Fibre 1.5% • Crude Ash 6%. Nutritional Additives: Vitamin A (retinyl acetate) (E672) 25,000 iu/kg • Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) (E671) 2,000 iu/kg • Vitamin E (dl alpha tocopherol acetate) (3a700) 250 mg/kg • Copper (copper sulphate pentahydrate) (E4) 20 mg/kg • Iodine (calcium iodate anhydrous) (E2) 0.55 mg/kg • Iron (ferrous sulphate monohydrate) (E1) 200 mg/kg • Manganese (manganese oxide) (E5) 24.2 mg/kg • Selenium (sodium selenite) (E8) 0.33 mg/kg • Zinc (zinc sulphate monohydrate) (E6) 428.6 mg/kg • Taurine 1,500 mg/kg • Methionine 2,500 mg/kg.Technological Additives: Plant and tocopherol rich extracts of natural origin 100 mg/kg.STAY-C® is a trademark DSM.

Burgess Adult Cat Rich in Scottish Salmon 1.5kg & 10kgComposition: Rice • Salmon Pro (min 14%) • Poultry meal • Maize • Wheat • Maize gluten • Fish meal • Poultry fat • Unmolassed beet pulp (3%) • Chicken digest • Brewer’s yeast • Salt • Potassium chloride • Short chain fructo-oligosaccharides (0.3%) • Limestone • STAY-C® 50 (700mg/kg).Analytical Constituents: Crude Protein 30% • Fat Content 12% • Crude Fibre 1.6% • Crude Ash 6%. Nutritional Additives: Vitamin A (retinyl acetate) (E672) 25,000 iu/kg • Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) (E671) 2,000 iu/kg • Vitamin E (dl alpha tocopherol acetate) (3a700) 250 mg/kg • Copper (copper sulphate pentahydrate) (E4) 20 mg/kg • Iodine (calcium iodate anhydrous) (E2) 0.55 mg/kg • Iron (ferrous sulphate monohydrate) (E1) 200 mg/kg • Manganese (manganese oxide) (E5) 24.2 mg/kg • Selenium (sodium selenite) (E8) 0.33 mg/kg • Zinc (zinc sulphate monohydrate) (E6) 428.6 mg/kg • Taurine 1,500 mg/kg • Methionine 2,500 mg/kg.Technological Additives: Plant and tocopherol rich extracts of natural origin 100 mg/kg.STAY-C® is a trademark DSM.

Burgess Mature Cat with Turkey and Cranberry 1.4kgComposition: Poultry meal (22%) • Maize • Rice • Wheat • Maize gluten • Poultry fat • Turkey meal (min 4%) • Hydrolysed poultry powder (3%) • Chicken digest • Unmolassed beet pulp • Brewer’s yeast • Fish meal • Egg (1%) • Short chain fructo-oligosachharides (0.3%) • Potassium chloride • STAY-C® 50 (700mg/kg) • Cranberry (0.065%) • Salt • Glucosamine HCI (30mg/kg)Analytical Constituents: Crude Protein 31% • Fat Content 11% • Crude Fibre 1.5% • Crude Ash 6.5%. Nutritional Additives: Vitamin A (retinyl acetate) (E672) 25,000 iu/kg • Vitamin C (l-ascorbic acid monophosphate) 70 mg/kg • Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) (E671) 2,000 iu/kg • Vitamin E (dl alpha tocopherol acetate) (3a700) 250 mg/kg • Copper (copper sulphate pentahydrate) (E4) 20 mg/kg • Iodine (calcium iodate anhydrous) (E2) 0.55 mg/kg • Iron (ferrous sulphate monohydrate)(E1) 200 mg/kg • Manganese (manganese oxide) (E5) 24 mg/kg • Selenium (sodium selenite) (E8) 0.33 mg/kg • Zinc (zinc sulphate monohydrate) (E6) 428 mg/kg • Taurine 1,500 mg/kg • Methionine 2,500 mg/kg.Technological Additives: Plant and tocopherol rich extracts of natural origin 100 mg/kg.STAY-C® is a trademark DSM.

We’re a British family business with over 200-years history in agriculture and food production. From our humble beginnings in our heartland of Yorkshire we continued to grow and develop with the health and happiness of the nation’s pets as our number one goal.

200 years ofheritage

Employees outside the mill in the late 1930’s

Victory Mill after 1948

re-furbishment

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Burgess Pet Care, Victory Mill, Priestmans Lane, Thornton-le-Dale, Pickering, North Yorkshire YO18 7RU

Freephone: +44 800 413 969

www.burgesspetcare.com