Feeding our cats can be tricky

Feeding a cat well requires balancing their tastes, health needs, and appetite. Some cats are picky, others have medical restrictions, and many will beg for more food than they need. As responsible cat owners, our job is to meet their nutritional needs without overfeeding or giving in to every demand.

While each cat is unique, there are practical guidelines that help determine how much to feed. Daily calorie needs generally depend on a cat’s weight, age, activity level, and health status. Below you’ll find clear guidance on feeding kittens, adult cats, and seniors, plus tips on treats and monitoring body condition. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian to tailor a plan for your cat.

How Much is Too Much?

• Kittens: Kittens, typically aged 0 to 12 months, need extra calories to support rapid growth and development. A commonly suggested range is about 60–65 kcal per pound of body weight. Young cats usually do well on high-fat, calorie-dense wet foods that support healthy weight gain. Monitor growth and adjust portions: some kittens grow faster and will need more frequent increases in food. Avoid overfeeding by weighing your kitten periodically and discussing feeding amounts with your vet to ensure balanced development.
• Adult Cats: Cats are considered adults after about one year of age, although many remain playful longer. By this time most cats reach their adult size and their calorie needs stabilize. Instead of a one-size-fits-all number, it’s best to follow the feeding instructions on the food you choose, adjusted for your cat’s lifestyle—indoor, outdoor, highly active, or prone to hairballs. Pay attention to body condition rather than relying solely on package recommendations: you should be able to feel the ribs with a light layer of fat and see a waist when viewed from above.
• Senior Cats: Cats are commonly considered seniors around 10–11 years old. Aging animals may experience changes in appetite, weight, and activity level, and they often benefit from diets formulated for older cats. Many seniors lose weight as they age, so offering highly palatable wet food can encourage eating and help maintain body condition. Choose recipes appropriate for any health issues, and adjust portions based on regular weight checks and veterinary guidance. Some cats will require special dietary changes for conditions like kidney disease or dental problems.

Always check the feeding guidelines printed on the bag or can of food you buy. Those recommendations are a useful starting point for portioning dry or wet food for your cat’s weight and activity level. If you are uncertain about the right diet, contact your veterinarian to create a feeding plan tailored to your cat’s age, weight, health, and lifestyle.

If you are exploring different product options, review ingredient lists and guaranteed analysis to ensure a balanced diet. High-quality foods contain complete and balanced nutrient profiles appropriate for the life stage listed on the package. Treats and snacks should be counted toward the daily calorie total to prevent unintentional overfeeding.

All the Extras

Treats and table scraps can quickly push a cat’s daily calorie intake above what is healthy. Human foods are not formulated for a cat’s digestive system and can lack essential nutrients or even be harmful. If you like to reward your cat, choose treats designed for felines and give them sparingly. Remember to subtract the calories in treats from the amount you serve at regular meals so your cat’s overall calorie balance stays appropriate.

Establish a routine for treats—set specific times and limits rather than free feeding—to help control total daily intake. For multi-cat households, be mindful that free-feeding or leaving treats accessible can lead to hiding and overeating by some cats. When offering wet food or special toppers to entice a picky eater, account for those calories in the daily total as well.

A Few Reminders

Each cat is an individual with varying energy needs and health concerns. Regularly monitor your cat’s weight and body condition, and note any changes in appetite or eating behavior. Sudden increases or decreases in food intake or weight can be signs of underlying health issues and should prompt a veterinary visit. Before changing diets, portion sizes, or feeding routines, consult your veterinarian to ensure the change supports your cat’s well-being.

Pay attention to mealtime behavior—cats will often communicate discomfort, dental pain, or illness through changes in eating. By staying observant and working with your vet, you can keep your cat at a healthy weight, support good nutrition through all life stages, and enjoy many happy years together.

^{* Based on Studies of Wellness Cat at an Independent Kennel. Data on File.}