Cat owners should feed their pet moist food but lay off the milk and cream, according to animal nutrition expert and vet Peter Coleshaw, whose advice has been reported by the Daily Mail.

Cats are carnivores and so need a diet high in meat, the vet advised. Pet owners should not feed their cat grain as it could lead to feline diabetes and obesity, he said.

Pet owners should buy moist pouches or cans of food to help their cat's urine dilute, as some cats can suffer from bladder problems and urine infections.

Cats could be given raw sardines, mackerel or herring once or twice a week, and the bones can be left in the fish. Tinned tuna should be avoided because of its high salt content, Mr Coleshaw said.

Cats can derive most of the water they need from their prey rather than drinking separately, but owners should ensure their pets have access to clean water.

Finally, the vet advised that cats should never be overfed. Pet owners who decide to change their cat's diet should keep an eye on their pet's behaviour, as some cats can resist the change and may even decide to stop eating.