The amount you should feed a cat depends primarily on its weight, age, activity level, and health status. The key is to focus on the number of calories rather than just the portion size.
General Calorie Guidelines
- Adult cats generally need about 25 to 35 calories per pound of body weight per day. For example, a 10-pound cat would require roughly 250 to 350 calories daily
- Less active cats require fewer calories, while kittens and more active cats need more.
- Treats should not exceed 10% of the daily calorie intake
Feeding Frequency
- Kittens (up to 6 months) should be fed 3 to 4 meals per day.
- Adult cats are typically fed 2 meals per day.
- Senior cats may benefit from 2 to 3 smaller meals daily
Portion Size Examples
- If a cat food contains 500 kcal per cup and your cat needs 250 kcal/day, feed about ½ cup daily , split into two meals of ¼ cup each
- For wet food, a 10-pound cat might eat around 3.5 ounces (one small can) per meal , twice a day
- If feeding a mix of wet and dry food, divide the total daily calories equally between both types
Sample Feeding Chart for Adult Cats (Calories per Day)
Cat Weight| Calories (Spayed/Neutered)| Calories (Intact)| Calories (Weight
Loss)
---|---|---|---
5 lbs| 125-157| 175-183| 75-105
10 lbs| 250-260| 350-303| 150-173
15 lbs| 375-354| 525-413| 225-236
20 lbs| 500-440| 700-513| 300-293
(Values vary by source and individual cat needs; consult your vet for personalized advice)
Key Points
- Always check the calorie content on your cat food packaging.
- Adjust portions based on your cat’s activity level, age, and health.
- Consult your veterinarian for precise feeding amounts tailored to your cat.
This approach ensures your cat maintains a healthy weight and avoids obesity- related health issues
