Cat Feeding: When, How Much And How?

It is a myth that cats eat only fish in addition to kibble, indeed they love meat; if the cat tends to gain weight, it will be better to divide the food into several portions during the day.

Cats are always hungry, like dogs.  The difference is that felines are quieter and sometimes eat without us noticing. This insatiable appetite could lead us to feed them more than they should and, therefore, to make them gain weight. To avoid this, we need to know everything about proper cat nutrition.  

Feeding the cat: what does it eat?

Even though cats can eat carbon hydrates and vitamins, they always prefer proteins and fats. The myth that they only eat fish is not true: cats love meat! If they have a choice, they reject neither.

It is always advisable to feed cats the special feed through which to obtain the nutrients they need during the day. Dry food has been the king of cat nutrition for years, but the latest scientific advances accept the BARF diet, which is also valid for other pets.

Both food programs are fully valid, and could even be alternated, as long as they are correct. However, the owner will decide which side to side with, always keeping in mind the needs and lifestyle of their cat.

Feeding the cat: how?

In any case, proteins must make up 35% of the nutrients ingested. If you opt for the feed, the one for diabetic cats has a much higher percentage of protein than normal feed.   

In the case of the BARF diet, it will be necessary to divide the food into three parts: one of almost 40% and two of 30%. The first corresponds to proteins, the second to hydrates and the third to vitamins found in fruit and vegetables.

Feeding the cat: when and how much?

Years ago it was said that dogs should eat three times a day. Later, after an increase in the obesity of these animals, the quantity was reduced to one or two times. And what about cats?

Because of the insatiable appetite they seem to have, the ideal is to make them eat several times a day. This does not mean that we have to feed our pet, but that we have to  divide its daily amount of food into different portions.

This is a “psychological deception” that will make the animal believe that it is eating all day without making it take in more calories than necessary. Feed producers correctly highlight the right amount for each individual animal.

If you decide to feed your cat the raw diet, the best thing to do is consult your veterinarian to find out what he can eat, what quantities and how to prepare the food. Although this feeding plan is known as the “raw diet”, cats must eat cooked foods.

If you follow these tips, your cats will enjoy excellent health, as proper nutrition is essential in this regard. Remember we are what we eat; the same goes for cats.