Essential Nutrition for Cats
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require nutrients found primarily in animal tissue. A balanced diet is crucial for their health and longevity.
Key Nutrients Required:
- Protein: At least 26% for adults, 30% for kittens - from animal sources
- Taurine: Essential amino acid found only in animal tissue
- Fatty acids: Omega-3 and Omega-6 for coat and skin health
- Vitamins: A, D, E, K, and B-complex vitamins
- Minerals: Calcium, phosphorus, magnesium in proper ratios
- Water: Fresh water should always be available
Feeding Schedule & Portions
Adult Cats (1-7 years):
- Feed 2-3 times daily on a consistent schedule
- Typical portion: 1/3 to 1/2 cup of dry food per meal
- Or 3-5 oz of wet food per meal
- Adjust based on activity level and weight
Kittens (Up to 1 year):
- Feed 3-4 times daily for proper growth
- Use kitten-specific formulas (higher protein/calories)
- Free-feeding is acceptable for very young kittens
- Gradually transition to adult portions by 12 months
Senior Cats (7+ years):
- May need senior-specific formulas
- Smaller, more frequent meals may be easier to digest
- Monitor weight - obesity is common in less active seniors
- Consider softer foods if dental issues arise
Wet Food vs Dry Food
Wet Food Benefits:
- Higher moisture content (70-80%) - helps with hydration
- Often more palatable and aromatic
- Lower carbohydrates, higher protein
- Easier for cats with dental problems
Dry Food Benefits:
- Convenient and can be left out longer
- More economical for multi-cat households
- May help reduce dental tartar (debated)
- Easier to measure portions accurately
💡 Pro Tip: Many veterinarians recommend a combination of wet and dry food to balance hydration, dental health, and cost considerations.
Foods to AVOID
⚠️ Toxic Foods for Cats:
- Chocolate: Contains theobromine - highly toxic
- Onions & Garlic: Damage red blood cells
- Grapes & Raisins: Can cause kidney failure
- Alcohol: Extremely dangerous, even small amounts
- Caffeine: Can cause heart problems and tremors
- Xylitol: Artificial sweetener - causes liver failure
- Raw dough: Expands in stomach, produces alcohol
- Bones: Can splinter and cause internal damage
- Milk: Most adult cats are lactose intolerant
Hydration Tips
Cats have a low thirst drive and often don't drink enough water, which can lead to urinary issues.
- Provide multiple water bowls throughout the house
- Use wide, shallow bowls (cats dislike whisker contact)
- Consider a cat water fountain - moving water attracts cats
- Keep water bowls away from food bowls
- Add wet food to increase moisture intake
- Change water daily to keep it fresh