Feline Diet: Simple Tips for Healthy Cats

If you love your cat, you already know they’re picky about what lands in their bowl. A good feline diet isn’t about fancy brands – it’s about matching real nutrition to a cat’s natural needs. Below you’ll find quick, practical advice you can use right now, whether you’re feeding a kitten or a senior mouser.

First things first: cats are obligate carnivores. That means they need animal protein to stay sharp, active and to keep their coat shiny. Look for foods that list a real meat source – chicken, turkey, salmon or beef – as the first ingredient. Avoid products that hide meat under vague terms like "animal digest" or "meat meal" unless the label explains exactly what that means.

Dry kibble is convenient, but it often contains more carbs than a cat would eat in the wild. Wet canned food usually has higher moisture, which helps with urinary health and keeps cats hydrated. A mix of both can work, but don’t rely on dry food alone for daily nutrition.

Some owners swear by raw or frozen diets because they think it’s the most natural option. Raw can be safe if you follow strict handling rules and balance the diet with the right vitamins and minerals. If you’re not comfortable preparing raw meals yourself, stick to commercial foods that have been tested for nutrient completeness.

Choosing the Right Cat Food

When you browse the shelves, start by checking the AAFCO statement – it shows the food meets basic nutritional standards. Then, scan the ingredient list for any fillers you’d rather avoid: corn, wheat, soy and excessive by‑products. These can cause allergies or digestive upset in sensitive cats.

Pay attention to the guaranteed analysis. A good adult cat food should have around 30‑40% protein, 10‑15% fat and less than 5% fiber. If the protein number looks low, the food probably relies on plant‑based proteins that aren’t as digestible for cats.

For senior cats or those with health issues, look for specialized formulas. Joint support blends often contain glucosamine, while kidney‑friendly diets have reduced phosphorus. Always match the formula to your cat’s life stage and any vet recommendations.

Feeding Schedules That Work

Most cats thrive on two meals a day – morning and evening. This routine mimics the small, regular hunting breaks they’d have in the wild. If you have a kitten, offer food four to six times daily because their tiny stomachs need constant energy.

Control portions by measuring the food rather than guessing. A typical 10‑pound indoor cat needs about 200‑250 calories per day, but you can fine‑tune that number based on activity level and body condition. Many pet food bags include a feeding chart – use it as a starting point, then adjust up or down.

Nighttime feeding can be a tricky question. If your cat wakes you up for snacks, try offering a small, balanced night‑time portion a couple of hours before bed. This can curb late‑night hunger without encouraging over‑eating.

Keep fresh water available at all times, especially if you feed mostly dry food. Some cats prefer a water fountain because the running water mimics a natural source and encourages them to drink more.

Our tag page pulls together the most useful articles on feline diet – from "Best Cat Food: What to Feed Your Feline for Optimal Health" to "Hidden Dangers in Dry Cat Food" and "How Often Should You Feed Your Cat?" Browse those posts for deeper dives, ingredient breakdowns and expert feeding schedules. With the right food and a solid routine, your cat will stay healthy, active, and purring for years to come.