Feline Nutrition Guide: Simple Steps to Keep Your Cat Healthy

Feeding a cat can feel like a guessing game, but it doesn’t have to be. The right food keeps your kitty lean, energetic, and less prone to health issues. Below are the core ideas you can apply today, whether you’re feeding a kitten, an adult, or a senior cat.

Read the Label Like a Pro

Most packaged cat foods list ingredients in order of weight. Look for a high‑quality protein source—chicken, turkey, or fish—right at the top. If you see “meat meal” or “by‑product” before the first real meat, the product is likely lower in quality. Pay attention to the guaranteed analysis: protein should be 30% + for adults and 35% + for kittens.

Don’t forget the moisture content. Wet food typically contains 70‑80% water, which helps with hydration. Mixing a little wet food into a dry diet can boost fluid intake and keep urinary health in check.

Portion Sizes and Feeding Frequency

How much you feed depends on age, weight, activity level, and the calorie count on the bag. A common mistake is over‑feeding because the bag looks big. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cup and follow the feeding guide on the label, then adjust based on your cat’s body condition.

For kittens, offer 3‑4 small meals a day. Adults usually do fine with two meals spaced 8‑12 hours apart. Seniors may need a softer diet and smaller, frequent meals if they have teeth issues or reduced appetite.

If you’re unsure whether a can of Friskies is enough, think of it like a snack rather than a full meal. Most adult cats need about 200‑250 kcal per day, which translates to roughly half a can of a 100‑kcal brand, plus dry kibble or another source to meet the total.

Supplements – When Do They Matter?

Most commercial foods are formulated to be complete, meaning you don’t need extra vitamins or minerals. However, if your vet diagnoses a specific deficiency, targeted supplements can help. Omega‑3 fish oil is a popular add‑on for skin, coat, and joint health, but keep the dosage low to avoid stomach upset.

Avoid human supplements unless a vet explicitly recommends them. Over‑supplementing can cause kidney strain or other issues.

Common Pitfalls to Skip

1️⃣ Feeding too many treats. Treats should never exceed 10% of daily calories. Tiny bites of cooked chicken are great, but a handful of crunchy biscuits can add up fast.

2️⃣ Ignoring water. Even cats that eat wet food need fresh water. Place a bowl in a quiet spot and refresh it several times a day.

3️⃣ Switching foods abruptly. Sudden diet changes can cause digestive upset. Mix new food with the old one over a week, gradually increasing the new proportion.

Age‑Specific Needs

Kittens need higher calories and protein for growth. Look for “kitten” or “growth” formulas that include DHA for brain development. Adult cats thrive on maintenance formulas that balance protein and fat without excess calories.

Senior cats often benefit from joint‑support nutrients like glucosamine and a lower calorie density to prevent weight gain as activity drops.

By keeping an eye on ingredient quality, portion control, and age‑specific needs, you’ll give your cat a solid nutritional foundation. Your furry friend will thank you with extra purrs, playful pounces, and a shiny coat. Ready to upgrade your cat’s bowl? Start with these steps and adjust as you see how your cat responds. Happy feeding!