Ten FAQs on Feeding a Cat: Expert Answers for Healthy Cats

Feeding your cat can seem straightforward, but many new owners find themselves overwhelmed by the choices: wet food, dry food, kitten formulas, senior diets, and even raw feeding options. This guide answers ten of the most frequently asked questions about cat feeding to help you make informed, responsible choices and keep your feline friend healthy and happy.

1. What is a good diet to keep your cat healthy?

Cats require a balanced diet rich in protein, moderate fats, limited carbohydrates, and vital vitamins and minerals. High-quality commercial cat foods, designed through extensive research, typically meet these needs and support a shiny coat, bright eyes, and overall vitality. While the exact food brand is less critical than its nutritional completeness, always choose diets formulated specifically for cats, as their requirements differ from other pets.

2. Is commercial food the best choice for cats?

Commercial cat foods, whether wet, dry, or a combination, generally provide full nutritional balance. If feeding mainly dry food, ensure your cat drinks plenty of fresh water to prevent urinary issues. Occasionally offering fresh cooked meals is fine, but avoid dog food, which lacks essential feline nutrients. Feeding commercial food also helps avoid nutritional deficiencies commonly found in homemade diets.

3. How often should you feed your cat?

Kittens under six months should be fed around three to four times daily to accommodate their fast growth and small stomachs. Adult cats thrive on two meals a day, but some prefer small, frequent meals or free feeding dry food, provided they don't overeat or become overweight. Keeping a routine that fits with your household schedule helps cats maintain a healthy weight.

4. What about fresh food like raw or cooked meat and fish?

Feeding fresh food, particularly lightly cooked fish or meat, can be a healthy supplement if done carefully. Cooking destroys harmful bacteria while preserving nutrients like B vitamins. Variety is essential to cover all nutritional needs. However, specialists usually recommend quality commercial diets as the safest way to guarantee nutritional completeness, avoiding risks of deficiencies.

5. Can cats be vegetarian or vegan?

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they must have meat to survive. They need specific amino acids like taurine found only in animal products. A vegetarian or vegan diet can cause blindness and heart disease due to taurine deficiency. Even cat owners who follow plant-based diets should never impose this on their cats.

6. Do cats need vitamin and mineral supplements?

If your cat eats a balanced commercial diet, extra vitamins and minerals aren't necessary and could cause harm if improperly added. If primarily feeding fresh or homemade food, consult your vet about supplementing to ensure your cat receives all essential nutrients safely.

7. Should cats have milk instead of water?

While cats may enjoy milk as a treat, it should never replace water, which is essential for hydration. Many adult cats are lactose intolerant and get diarrhoea from cow’s milk. Specially formulated “cat milk” is available and may be given occasionally, but clean, fresh water should always be available.

8. What is the best diet for a kitten?

Kittens rely on their mother's milk initially, typically until about four weeks of age. After this, introduce semi-liquid, finely ground solid foods designed for kittens, which cater to their nutritional requirements and small mouths. Most commercial kitten foods are formulated for these needs and can be started at around six weeks.

9. What should you feed a cat when he’s unwell?

Sick cats often lose appetite, so encourage them with nourishing, tasty liquids like beef broth, or vet-formulated liquid diets. Feeding from a spoon or syringe may be necessary. As they recover, gradually reintroduce favourite solid foods to restore normal eating habits. Prompt vet advice is important if lack of appetite persists.

10. How long can cats go without food?

Cats can survive several weeks without food but only a few days without water before severe dehydration occurs. Never leave your cat without food longer than a day. If you’re away, provide extra dry food and fresh water. Ensure your cat’s safety by preventing unsupervised roaming for foraging, as this can lead to accidents or getting lost.

Conclusion

To summarise, feeding a good quality commercial cat food tailored to your cat’s life stage is usually the best way to provide balanced nutrition. Fresh, clean water must always be accessible. Adjust feeding frequency to your cat’s preferences and needs while avoiding overfeeding. Consult your vet for specific health concerns or dietary questions, and offer treats sparingly as occasional rewards. Following these guidelines will help you maintain your cat’s health and happiness responsibly.

For those looking to find a kitten, reputable breeders provide well-nourished young cats accustomed to healthy dietary routines, laying the foundations for long-term well-being.