7 Guidelines for Feeding Your Cat the Right Amount Daily

How healthy and thriving your cat is depends on what you feed them and how much. Remember, every cat’s dietary needs are different. 

With that said, cat owners should know the right amount of food to feed their cats to maintain their ideal weight and overall well-being. 

No matter which cat you own, if you want to feel your cat the right amount regularly, but are not sure how to determine it, you’re not alone. 

Listed below are the top seven tips for your help, so continue to read on… 

1. Calculate Daily Calories by Weight

One of the best ways to feed a healthy adult cat is to provide between 20 and 25 calories for each pound of body weight. This translates to about 45-55 calories per kilogram. 

Let’s understand it this way: a typical 10-pound cat would require approximately 200 to 250 calories every day to maintain its weight. If you are looking to support your cat’s energy levels and health, this caloric intake is worth considering.  

2. Adjust for Activity and Life Stage

Not all cats have the same energy needs. Active felines, especially those who spend time outdoors, will require more calories to support their energetic lifestyles. 

On the contrary, sedentary or neutered indoor cats usually need fewer calories, which are sufficient to prevent unnecessary weight gain. 

Beyond that, life stages play a vital role in nutritional requirements. Typically, kittens need to be fed 3 to 4 times a day to support rapid growth. But senior cats (those over 10 years old) have distinct dietary needs that vary from those of younger adults. 

Based on your cat’s life stage and activity level, feeding the right number of calories can help keep it more active and healthier for longer. 

3. Use Packaging Guidelines as a Starting Point

Wondering how much food to feed my cat (猫 ご飯 量), browse commercial cat foods that also have a feeding chart on their packaging. This can act as a good starting point for determining portion sizes. 

Brands often differ in calorie density. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to these specifics when deciding how much to feed.  

4. Prioritize High-Quality Protein

Being obligate carnivores, cats thrive on diets rich in high-quality protein. When choosing cat food, look for options where meat, such as chicken, turkey, or salmon, is listed as the primary ingredient. 

It’s strongly advisable not to choose foods high in meals or fillers, as these do not provide the same nutritional value. 

5. Measure Food Daily

Concerned about how to prevent obesity? If so, avoid the practice of “free feeding,” where food is left out all day for your cat to graze. 

Instead, you should measure out the total daily portion and divide it into two or three meals. In addition to helping you manage their caloric intake, this will also establish a consistent feeding routine. 

6. Limit Treats and Monitor Weight

It’s for sure, treats can be an enjoyable part of your cat’s diet. However, they should only make up about 10% of their total daily calorie intake. 

In light of this, it’s imperative to regularly monitor your cat’s weight. If you do so, you’ll ensure they are within a healthy range. 

In case your cat’s body condition score falls between 6 and 9, it may be more than necessary to adjust their food portions accordingly. 

7. Choose the Right Dish and Location

The dish you use and where it’s placed can significantly affect your cat’s dining experience. Therefore, opt for shallow wide bowls that prevent “whisker stress.” 

This condition occurs when a cat’s sensitive whiskers come into contact with the sides of deep bowls, causing discomfort while eating. 

Furthermore, you should try to place the feeding area in a quiet location, where your cat can enjoy their meals without distractions. 

Wrapping It Up 

Feel free to consult a reputable veterinarian to devise a tailored feeding plan. Make sure the plan is both safe and effective, particularly for cats with pre-existing health issues, such as diabetes or kidney disease. 

Your expert veterinarian can provide you with personalized recommendations to ensure your cat’s dietary needs are appropriately met.