What a cat should eat changes as it grows: a kitten needs fuel for growth, an adult needs the right amount to stay lean, and a senior needs close attention to weight, muscle and hydration. This guide gives the overview and links to a detailed article on each question.
Every cat is different, so treat these as starting points and ask your vet about your own cat. If you are not sure which stage your cat is in, see cat life stages.
Feeding at each life stage
| Stage | What to feed | How often | Read more |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newborn to 4 weeks | Mother's milk, or kitten milk replacer if a vet advises it | Every few hours | Kitten feeding schedule |
| 4 weeks to 1 year | Food made for kittens, with some wet food | Several small meals a day | Kitten feeding schedule |
| Adult (1 to 10 years) | A complete and balanced adult food, measured | Two or more meals, or smaller meals through the day | How much to feed a cat |
| Senior (over 10 years) | High-quality, protein-rich food matched to health | Two to four small meals | Senior cat diet |
The four rules that apply to every cat
- Choose a complete and balanced food. Vets look for the AAFCO statement and a named protein, such as chicken or salmon, as a first ingredient, with few fillers and artificial additives.
- Measure the portion. Extra weight is one of the commonest cat health problems. See healthy cat weight.
- Make water easy to find. Wet food and several water bowls both help. See wet vs dry cat food.
- Change food slowly. A gradual switch over at least 7 to 10 days is gentler on the stomach. See how to switch cat food.
Treats
Treats should not exceed 10% of your cat's daily calories, and they count toward the daily total. For senior cats, VCA suggests low-calorie options of under 4 calories per piece, or small servings of fresh vegetables and fruit, and avoiding table scraps, which can be high in fat and sodium.
When food is a health issue
- A cat that suddenly stops eating needs a vet. Cats that go without food for a day or two can develop serious liver problems.
- Cats with kidney disease, urinary problems or diabetes often need a prescription diet. See kidney disease in cats and senior cat health.
- Sore teeth make eating painful. See cat dental disease.
Different breeds, different needs
Large, slow-growing breeds can stay on kitten food longer than small ones. For example, Maine Coons may need kitten food until 18 to 24 months. See our Maine Coon guide and the other breed guides. To see how old your cat is in human years, use the PurrAge calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best food for a cat?
There is no single best food. Vets look for a complete and balanced food that suits your cat's life stage and health, from a trustworthy brand. Wet, dry or a mix can all work.
How many times a day should I feed my cat?
Cats naturally eat many small meals. A vet at Texas A&M notes that cats are designed to eat about 12 to 20 times in 24 hours, so splitting the daily amount into more than two meals can suit them better.
Can I leave food out all day?
Dry food can be left out, but free feeding makes overeating easy. Wet food should not be left out for hours because it is not hygienic or palatable.
Is it okay to give my cat human food?
Occasional plain scraps are not harmful in tiny amounts, but table food can be high in fat and salt and can upset a cat's stomach. Ask your vet before adding extras.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your cat's diet.