How much should a cat eat?

How much a cat should eat depends on its weight, age, activity and also its state of health. Let's take a look at how we can determine the recommended amount in this blog post. We will also look at the types of food and what devices we can use to make it easier to feed your cat if you are travelling or at work.

Why is nutrition so important?

It goes without saying that a healthy, balanced and sufficient diet is the foundation of a cat's health:

• weight control: being overweight can have a significant impact on health. It can lead to diabetes, breathing difficulties and joint diseases.
• fur condition: a good quality food rich in vitamins and minerals promotes a beautiful, shiny and healthy coat.
• immune system: a balanced diet ensures and strengthens good immunity.

How to determine how much food is needed?

Weight and activity

The amount of food, according to the weight of the cat, is indicated on the food packaging. Divide the amount shown in the table by the number of meals to obtain the amount of food to be given at one time. On average, a cat needs 20-30 calories per kilogram per day. How then can one know whether 20 or 30 calories are needed? It depends, first of all, on the activity level. Adult cats living in an apartment will need 20 calories per kilogram, whereas those living in a private house and frequently going outdoors will need 30 calories per kilogram of weight.

Age is also an important factor

• Kittens: more calories are needed for growth and development, 25-30 grams per kilogram can be calculated. 
• Adult cats: should be based on the cat's activity, but as a guide, for an active cat this will be 30 grams per kilogram.
• Older cats are more sedentary, so less calories are needed, around 25 grams per kilogram.

Dry or wet food?

Dry food

Dry food is more calorie-rich per gram of food. This should be taken into account when portioning the meal. Dry food is practical because it has a longer shelf life and has a positive effect on the health of the zoobes. A good quality feed will contain at least 70% meat (the more the better, of course), so research the composition of the feed before making a purchase.

Wet food

Wet feed contains more water and is consequently less calorie-dense. Perfect if your pet is reluctant to take liquids. In terms of taste, most cats prefer this type of food. It is possible to use both types of food and is even recommended.

Choose a food that is high in meat and low in cereals and other fillers. A quality food is one that is high in protein. Carefully study the calorie count on the packaging so that you can calculate the amount of food you need.

How often should I feed my cat?

Frequency of feeding

• Kittens: 3-4 times a day.
• Adult and elderly cats: 2-3 times a day.

Free access or controlled feeding?

Some owners prefer to leave dry food available all day, but this may encourage the animal to overeat. Putting a large amount of food in a bowl to last a long time is also not hygienic - dust accumulates in the food and debris can build up. It is advisable to feed the cat at set times and to control the portions of food. Automatic feeders, which you will find HERE, can be very useful for this purpose.

An automatic cat feeder provides convenience for the owner and a dosed, regular and hygienic feeding for the cat. Even if you go away for several days, you can maintain a regular feeding schedule, which is essential for both weight control and a healthy digestive system.