Feeding cats requires providing a balanced diet that aligns with their natural feeding behaviours while managing portion sizes to prevent obesity. Cats typically prefer to have multiple small meals throughout the day. You can feed them wet food, dry food, or a combination of both. Always ensure fresh water is available for them. Be aware that some human foods, such as onions, garlic, and chocolate, are toxic to cats.

Feeding your cat the right way is super important for their health. It means knowing what they need to eat, picking the right food, and setting up a good feeding routine. Remember, cats are “obligate carnivores,” so their diet has to be meat-based.

How to Feed Your Cat

1. Choose Complete Commercial Food:
   Go for “complete” foods that are balanced and packed with all the vitamins, protein, and minerals your cat needs. Treats or “complementary” foods should be given only now and then. Look for brands that are members of UK Pet Food—they meet high-quality standards.




2. Follow Life-Stage Feeding Guidelines:
   Your cat’s needs change as they grow:
   - Kittens need calorie-rich food for growth and should eat smaller meals more often.
   - Adult Cats need a different balance and should be fed at least twice a day, or more often with smaller portions.
   - Senior Cats (8 years and up) may benefit from easily digestible proteins and fewer calories to keep a healthy weight as they slow down.




3. Decide on Wet vs. Dry Food:
   Both wet and dry foods can give complete nutrition, and many cat owners mix the two:
   - Wet Food:
     - High water content helps keep your cat hydrated, especially if they’re prone to urinary or kidney issues.
     - Often tastier thanks to its aroma and soft texture.
     - Once opened, refrigerate and use within 24 hours.
   - Dry Food:
     - Usually more budget-friendly and easy to store.
     - Some kibble helps reduce plaque and tartar.
     - More calorie-dense, so smaller amounts are needed.




4. Avoid Certain Foods:
   Never feed your cat a vegan or vegetarian diet—they need meat for essential nutrients like taurine. Also, steer clear of human foods like onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes, raisins, and milk, as these can be toxic.




5. Limit Treats:
   Treats should make up no more than 10% of your cat’s daily calories. Try rewarding your cat with playtime or using puzzle feeders to make treat time more fun and active.

Establishing a Healthy Feeding Routine

• Feed Multiple Small Meals:
  In the wild, cats eat several small meals throughout the day and night. Try splitting their daily food into at least two, ideally more, small meals.




• Use Puzzle Feeders:
  These are great for tapping into your cat’s natural hunting instincts and slowing down fast eaters by dispensing small amounts of food as they play.




• Measure Food Portions:
  To keep your cat at a healthy weight, start with the feeding guidelines on the packaging, then adjust based on their weight, age, and activity. Using a kitchen scale is the best way to get portions just right.




• Create a Suitable Feeding Environment:
  - Use shallow bowls made of ceramic or glass—cats don’t like their whiskers touching deep bowl sides.
  - Wash bowls daily to keep them clean.
  - Place food away from the litter tray and in a quiet, low-traffic spot.
  - Serve wet food at room temperature; warming it a bit can help picky eaters.
  - Always have fresh water available in a separate bowl.




• Transition Food Slowly:
  To avoid tummy troubles, introduce new food gradually over at least a week. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with the old, then slowly increase the new while decreasing the old.

When to Consult a Vet

If you’re worried about your cat’s eating habits, weight, or health—or if they have special medical needs—talk to your vet. They can help you figure out the best diet and feeding plan tailored just for your furry friend.