What Should I Feed My Cat?

Posted on June 24, 2024

People will often ask me what food they should be feeding their cat? They might have picky cats and they are at a loss as to what they should feed them. They may also be overwhelmed by the various types of foods at their local pet store.

Cats are obligate carnivores that require a species appropriate diet or a diet rich in animal-based protein such as chicken, turkey, fish and other meats. Cats have been known through history as “desert creatures” meaning they typically do not consume enough water on their own due to their low thirst drive.

Kittens will require different foods from adult cats and adult cats will have different requirements when compared to senior cats.

Cat food types consist of wet, dry, or raw foods. Raw foods can be broken down into frozen raw, freeze-dried, air dried or dehydrated foods.

I recommend feeding wet food over dry food. The reason why is because wet food has more moisture that cats need rather than dry food. Water is very important to cats. If they do not consume enough water daily, it could cause urinary issues as well as dehydration. Just because a can of food is $5.00 doesn’t necessarily make the more expensive brand better than a .90 cent can of food. Your cat might not even eat it, so you have to take into consideration your budget and narrow it down to brands within your price range. Consider your cat’s preferences and dietary needs. Special foods may be needed for health conditions in which you need to consult your vet.

I also recommend feeding cats twice per day. I do not recommend free feeding or leaving food out all day. This can cause cats to become overweight and lead to diabetes.

The above is a good starting point. However, specific nutritional requirements for cats such as protein, fats, carbohydrates, essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals are also an important factor when finding food for your cat.

If you are trying different foods, it is important to gradually introduce new foods. Do not give the cat a bowl of new food. Their digestive system needs between one to two weeks to adjust.

One of the services I provide is Nutrition and Cat Care.

If you are confused as to what your cat should be eating, please reach out to me. I am happy to help!