How to Feed a Pet Cat

Cats are naturally carnivorous, and a meat-based diet is essential. A balanced mix of wet and dry cat food provides the necessary nutrients for a healthy eating regime. Wet cat food is reformed meat or fish in jelly or gravy, and comes in a tin, pouch or single-serve tray. Dry food is bite-sized cat kibble that you can mix with meat or serve separately. Some types of kibble are designed to be nutritionally complete so you do not need to feed your cat additional wet food.

Things You'll Need

  • Dry cat food
  • Wet cat food
  • Water
  • Healthy cat treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Maintain a healthy eating area for your cat. Place dishes on a plastic mat or ceramic tile and wipe down the whole area every day with an antibacterial solution. Wash food and water dishes daily to prevent bacteria buildup.

    • 2

      Serve at least two or three small meals a day. Cats like to graze and return to their food repeatedly at regular intervals throughout the day. The amount of food a cat requires depends on its age, size and activity levels. Use the feeding instructions on your chosen cat food as a guide and do not overfeed.

    • 3

      Ensure your cat food is nutritionally adequate. Cats require 41 vitamins and minerals for optimum health, and manufactured cat food provides many of them. Premium cat foods are more nutritionally balanced than bargain or basic brands because they contain higher-quality ingredients.

    • 4

      Provide clean drinking water at all times, and change it every day. This is especially important if your cat eats dry food. Cow's milk is not suitable for cats because it is high in fat and lactose. Milk specifically formulated for cats is an acceptable alternative to water because it has low lactose levels and added vitamins that are beneficial to a cat's health.

    • 5

      Never leave wet food down so long that it dries out. Small amounts of food are best so your cat eats everything when it is still fresh. In warm weather, you may wish to feed smaller portions more frequently.

    • 6

      Allow your cat healthy treats once or twice a week. Choose ones with added vitamins or dental properties that help to clean your cat's teeth.