How to Feed Cats Dry Cat Food

A balanced diet for a cat includes cat food made with meats and plenty of water for hydration. Although many cats prefer canned food, feeding dry cat food can reduce the expense of being a cat owner. After the initial transition period where the cat must adapt to eating dry food, feeding your pet will be easy and inexpensive.

Things You'll Need

  • Scissors
  • Feeding dish
  • Water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place a clean, dry food dish on the floor or tabletop. Place the dish up high if there are dogs or young children in the home who may try to eat the cat's food. The dish may be made of plastic, ceramic or stainless steel. For multiple cats or forgetful owners, use an automatic feeder that releases additional food once the bowl is emptied.

    • 2

      Open the bag or box of cat food. Many companies sell their cat food in resealable bags or boxes that are easily opened by tearing. Use scissors to cut thick bags open and use a clip to reseal it after feeding.

    • 3

      Pour the cat food directly into the bowl for plain feeding bowls. In an automatic feeder, remove the plastic top and fill the canister completely, then replace the top. Ensure that cat food is evenly distributed in the bowl section of the feeder.

    • 4

      Mix a small amount of water into the cat food if the cat is young, has tooth or gum problems or is a senior to soften the food and provide additional hydration for the cat. This will not be possible if using an automatic feeder.

    • 5

      Offer water next to the bowl if the cat food is to remain unsoftened. Cats require plenty of water, especially if they are not eating canned food.

    • 6

      Leave the cat food out at all times. Cats will eat until they are full and then leave the food until they become hungry again.