How Much Should You Feed Your Cat?

Ever wonder if you're feeding your cat the right amount? You're not alone! Figuring out how much to feed your feline friend can be confusing. Too little food, and they might lose weight or become weak. Too much? Well, you’re looking at potential health problems like obesity and diabetes down the line.

But don't worry! In this guide, we’ll break it all down—whether you’ve got a hyper kitten or a laid-back senior, we've got you covered. Here are the most basic cat feeding guidelines to keep your cat healthy with just the right portions.

Why Does The Right Feeding Amount Matter?

What and how much you feed your cat affects their entire well-being. If they’re underfed, they can miss out on vital nutrients, leaving them frail and prone to sickness. Overfeeding, on the other hand, can lead to obesity. And with obesity comes a whole host of health issues.

In fact, according to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, obesity leads to serious effects in domestic cats, such as arthritis, muscle injuries, lameness, non-allergic skin conditions, and even shorter lifespans. It’s no joke! This is why getting the feeding amount just right is so important.

How Much Food Should You Actually Give Your Cat?

The amount of food your cat needs depends on several things: their age, weight, activity level, and even their health condition. Here's a closer look at each of these factors.

1. Age

Cats, like us, have different nutritional needs at different life stages.

Kittens - Kittens are little bundles of energy and need more calories to grow. Until they’re about six months old, you’ll want to feed them three meals a day. After that, you can start transitioning to two meals a day. They burn through calories fast, so keep that in mind!

Adult cats - When your cat hits adulthood (around one year old), their energy needs level out. Most adult cats do well on two meals a day, depending on how active they are.

Senior cats - As they age, older cats (10 years and above) tend to slow down and may need fewer calories. Keep an eye on their weight, and if they start packing on the pounds, consult your vet to make sure you’re not overfeeding.

2. Weight And Body Condition

Your cat’s weight plays a big role in how much food they should eat. If they’re overweight, cutting down on portions might be necessary. If they’re underweight, you’ll need to bump it up

Obesity is a growing concern in cats today, and it comes with real risks. A study by Cornell University found that overweight cats are up to 4.5 times more likely to develop diabetes, and three times more likely to deal with joint issues, compared to healthy-weight cats.

3. Activity Level

A super-active outdoor cat will burn more calories than a lazy indoor cat who spends most of the day napping on the couch. If your cat loves to zoom around the house or yard, they’ll need more food to fuel that energy.

4. Health Conditions

Some medical conditions can change how much food your cat needs. For example, a cat with diabetes might need fewer carbohydrates, while one with kidney disease may require food that’s lower in protein and phosphorus. Always consult with your vet if your cat has any health issues that could affect their diet.

So, How Do You Calculate The Right Amount?

With all these factors in mind, let’s figure out how much to feed your cat. Cats’ food needs are usually calculated based on calories. If you look at the label on your cat’s food, it’ll tell you how many calories (or kilocalories, kcal) are in a serving.

PetMD says adult cats need around 25-35 calories per pound of body weight per day as a general rule of thumb. So, if you have a 10-pound cat, they’d need about 250-350 calories daily. But of course, this can vary depending on their age, activity level, and health. You can try Vetcalculators to compute the caloric needs of your feline companion.

It’s always a good idea to check with your vet if you’re unsure how much your specific cat needs. They can help tailor these numbers to your kitty’s exact needs.

Wet vs. Dry Food: Which Is Better?

Ah, the great debate! Should you feed your cat wet or dry food? Both options have their perks, so let’s break it down.

Wet Food

Wet food has a high moisture content, which is great for cats who don’t drink much water on their own. Plus, many cats find it tastier. It’s also helpful for preventing urinary tract problems. Look for the best wet cat food ingredients to ensure your cat’s nutritional needs are met. The downside? Wet food is usually pricier and can spoil if left out too long. 

Dry Food

The best dry cat food is easier to store, more affordable, and can be left out for longer—perfect for free feeding. But, it lacks moisture, which can be a problem for some cats, especially those prone to urinary issues.

If you’re not sure which is best, why not try a mix of both? That way, your cat gets the best of both worlds!

How Often To Feed A Cat

Cats are creatures of habit, and a regular feeding schedule can help maintain their health and behavior. So, what’s the best way to feed your cat?

1. Timed Meals vs. Free Feeding

Feeding your cat at the same times each day can help regulate their calorie intake. It also lets you keep track of how much they’re eating—useful if you’re watching their weight.

If you’re the busy type, you might leave food out all day for your cat to nibble on when they please. This works well for dry food, but be careful—it can lead to overeating, especially for less active indoor cats.

2. Feeding On Schedule 

Choose a feeding routine that fits your lifestyle. VCA Animal Hospitals says cats should be fed at least two meals daily, around 12 hours apart. Cats may become hyper-acidic and nauseous if more than 12 hours elapses between meals. 

The Risks Of Overfeeding

As tempting as it is to spoil your cat, feeding them too much can have serious consequences. Overfeeding is one of the leading causes of obesity in cats, and the consequences are no joke.

Overweight cats are 4.5 times more likely to develop diabetes and seven times more likely to suffer from joint pain and lameness. Plus, they’re more likely to die younger compared to cats at a healthy weight. It’s tough, but managing portions is crucial to keeping your cat healthy and happy.

How Much Treats Should You Give Your Cat

We all love spoiling our fur babies with treats, but be careful not to overdo it. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your cat’s daily caloric intake. It’s easy to give in to those adorable begging eyes, but too many treats can add up quickly!

Feed Your Cat the Right Amount

Feeding your cat isn’t just about keeping them full—it’s about keeping them healthy, happy, and energetic. From choosing between wet and dry food to finding the perfect feeding schedule, taking the time to understand your cat’s needs will pay off with a longer, healthier life for your furry friend.

By sticking to the right portions, providing balanced meals, and avoiding the pitfalls of overfeeding, you’re doing your part to give your cat the best life possible.