How to Feed a Cat a Balanced Diet

No single dietary plan can be considered ideal for every cat. Here are some general guidelines to help keep your cat healthy and her appetite satisfied.

Things You'll Need

  • Cat Dishes
  • Pet Waterers

Instructions

    • 1

      Be sure to choose a reputable brand of cat food. Check with your veterinarian for recommendations.

    • 2

      Feed your cat dry food as well as wet, canned food. Dry food helps keep her teeth cleaner. Read the label to be sure the nutrient level is appropriate to your cat's stage of life. Usually, cat food containing 34 to 38 percent protein and 19 to 22 percent fat provides a healthy balance.

    • 3

      Remember that most cats are snackers or nibblers and like to eat small amounts of dry food throughout the day.

    • 4

      Know that cats with digestive problems may require higher fiber content in their diet. Check with your veterinarian.

    • 5

      Remember that cats begin to show their age at 8 to 10 years, with diminished abilities to smell, taste, chew and digest. Make sure an older cat has food that is highly digestible and palatable.

    • 6

      Feed your cat a small, measured amount of canned food twice a day. Leave the dry food out so that he can snack throughout the day.