Feeding your cat properly is one of the most important ways to keep them healthy, active, and content. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their bodies are designed to thrive on meat. This guide will walk you through the essentials of feline nutrition from choosing the right food to creating a balanced feeding routine. Whether you’re a new cat owner or just want to fine tune your kitty’s diet, this guide has you covered.
What Should Cats Eat
Cats require a diet rich in animal-based proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Unlike dogs, they do not thrive on carbohydrates and should not be fed a vegetarian or vegan diet.
Daily Essentials:
High quality wet or dry cat food
Animal protein as the main ingredient
Moderate fat for energy
Taurine, an essential amino acid for heart and eye health
Feeding by Life Stage
Cats have different nutritional needs at each stage of life:
Kittens:
Require energy dense, protein rich food
Need frequent meals (3-4 times per day)
Adult Cats:
Balanced food for weight maintenance
2 meals a day, or free feeding with portion control
Senior Cats:
Lower calorie diet
Easily digestible ingredients
Support for joints and kidney health
Wet vs Dry Food
Each has its benefits:
Wet Food:
Higher moisture content
Better for urinary health
More palatable for picky eaters
Dry Food:
Convenient and less expensive
Helps with dental health
Easy to store
Best Practice: Offer a combination of both to give your cat variety and hydration support.
Foods to Avoid
Some foods are dangerous or toxic to cats:
Onions, garlic, chives
Chocolate
Alcohol or caffeine
Raw dough
Dairy (many cats are lactose intolerant)
Grapes and raisins
Dog food (lacks essential nutrients)
Hydration Matters
Cats often don’t drink enough water, especially if they eat mainly dry food. Encourage hydration with:
A pet water fountain (many cats love running water!)
Multiple water bowls around the house
Including wet food in their diet
Tip: Fresh, clean water should always be available.
Sample Feeding Schedule
Example for an Adult Cat:
7:30am: Wet food portion
12:00pm: Treat or snack (optional)
6:00pm: Dry food portion
Adjust based on your cat’s age, health, and lifestyle.
