Cat Feeding Guide: How to Feed Your Cat for Better Health

Feeding Basics

Good nutrition is the foundation of your cat’s health. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they need animal-based protein as the primary component of their diet. Unlike dogs, cats have specific nutritional needs that can’t be met by plant-based foods alone.

Key nutrients every cat needs include taurine (essential for heart and eye health), arachidonic acid, vitamin A, and adequate protein. Quality commercial cat foods are formulated to meet these requirements, but not all foods are created equal.

Wet Food vs Dry Food

Both have pros and cons:

Wet Food

• Higher moisture content (good for hydration)

• More palatable for picky eaters

• Closer to natural prey diet

• Shorter shelf life once opened

Dry Food

• Convenient and cost-effective

• Good for puzzle feeders and enrichment

• Longer shelf life

• Lower moisture (cats need extra water)

Many vets recommend a combination of both. The most important thing is choosing a high-quality food that lists a named animal protein as the first ingredient.

How Much Should You Feed Your Cat?

Portion sizes depend on your cat’s age, weight, activity level, and the calorie density of their food. As a general guideline:

• Average indoor adult cat (10 lbs): ~200–250 calories per day

• Active/outdoor cats: May need 20–30% more

• Overweight cats: Your vet can help calculate a safe reduction

• Kittens: Need more calories per pound due to rapid growth

Always check the feeding guidelines on your cat’s food packaging and adjust based on your cat’s body condition.

Feeding by Life Stage

Nutritional needs change significantly as your cat ages. For a deeper dive, see our Life Stages & Aging guide.

Kittens (0–12 months)

High-calorie, high-protein kitten formula. Feed 3–4 small meals per day until 6 months, then transition to 2–3 meals.

Adults (1–7 years)

Balanced adult formula. Most cats do well with 2 meals per day on a consistent schedule.

Seniors (7+ years)

Senior-specific food with adjusted protein and phosphorus levels. Monitor weight closely and consult your vet about supplements.

Common Feeding Mistakes

• Free-feeding dry food: Can lead to obesity, especially in indoor cats

• Ignoring portion sizes: Even small overfeeding adds up quickly

• Switching food too fast: Always transition gradually over 7–10 days

• Feeding dog food: Dog food lacks essential nutrients cats need (like taurine)

• Too many treats: Treats should be no more than 10% of daily calories

• Not providing enough water: Especially with dry-food-only diets

Foods Cats Should Never Eat

• Onions, garlic, and chives (toxic to cats)

• Chocolate and caffeine

• Grapes and raisins

• Alcohol

• Xylitol (artificial sweetener)

• Raw eggs, raw fish (risk of bacteria and thiamine deficiency)

• Cooked bones (can splinter)

• Milk and dairy (most adult cats are lactose intolerant)

If your cat ingests something toxic, contact your vet or a pet poison helpline immediately.

How to Transition Cat Food Safely

Sudden food changes often lead to digestive upset. Follow this gradual transition schedule:

• Days 1–2: 75% old food, 25% new food

• Days 3–4: 50% old, 50% new

• Days 5–6: 25% old, 75% new

• Day 7+: 100% new food

If your cat shows signs of digestive upset during the transition, slow it down by an extra day or two at each stage.

Keeping Your Cat Hydrated

Many cats don’t drink enough water, which can contribute to urinary and kidney issues. Tips to encourage hydration:

• Provide fresh water in multiple locations

• Try a cat water fountain (many cats prefer running water)

• Include wet food in their diet

• Add a small amount of water or low-sodium broth to dry food

• Keep water bowls away from food and litter boxes

Weight Management for Indoor Cats

Over 60% of cats in the US are overweight or obese. Indoor cats are especially at risk due to lower activity levels. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of diabetes, joint problems, and heart disease.

• Measure portions with a kitchen scale or measuring cup

• Use puzzle feeders to slow eating and provide mental stimulation

• Schedule regular play sessions to increase activity

• Limit treats and avoid table scraps

• Weigh your cat monthly and track trends

If your cat needs to lose weight, work with your vet to create a safe weight loss plan. Rapid weight loss in cats can be dangerous. For more on keeping indoor cats healthy, see our Cat Health guide.