Nutrition Conversation Tips

How to Discuss Vegan Diets With a Cat Owner

Purely plant-based diets do not provide all of the nutrients a cat needs. To meet the unique nutritional requirements of cats as obligate carnivores, a vegan or vegetarian diet must be supplemented with key nutrients not present in adequate quantities in vegan or vegetarian ingredients. Watch this role-play video for suggestions on how to initiate and engage a cat owner in a conversation on the sensitive topic of feeding a vegan diet:

• Begin by asking whether the client is open to discussing the subject.
• Compliment client for wanting what’s best for the pet.
• Note the risks to a cat’s health when feeding a vegan diet.