Cats should be fed according to their life stage and individual needs, but general guidelines are as follows:
- Kittens (up to 6 months): They require more frequent feeding to support growth, typically three to four small meals a day
- Older kittens (6 months to 1 year): Feeding twice daily is usually best
- Adult cats (1 year and older): Most adult cats do well with one or two meals per day, though feeding two meals is commonly recommended to provide routine and help regulate hunger
. Some cats benefit from three to four smaller meals daily to maintain stable energy levels and prevent obesity
- Senior cats (10 years and older): Usually continue with the same feeding schedule as adults unless otherwise advised by a veterinarian
Cats have small stomachs and naturally eat multiple small meals throughout the day in the wild. Feeding at least twice daily aligns well with their physiology and behavior, helping to prevent hunger-related stress and maintain a healthy metabolism
. Free-choice or ad libitum feeding (leaving food out all day) is generally not recommended, especially for kittens, as it can lead to overeating and obesity
. In summary, feeding your cat two meals a day is a good standard approach, with adjustments based on age, health, and lifestyle. More frequent smaller meals can be beneficial, especially for kittens or cats with special needs
