Diet

Feeding your California Spangled well

United States

The diet of the California Spangled must cover its energy needs while remaining balanced. Good-quality complete foods, combined with sufficient daily activity, help it stay in shape.

A menu for every age

Needs change over time

  • Kitten : Complete growth food, divided into several small meals.

  • Adult : Controlled ration, adapted to sterilization and indoor living.

  • Senior : Highly digestible food, while monitoring kidneys, teeth and appetite.

Which food?

Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?

High-quality kibble, possibly supplemented with a well-formulated wet diet, is suitable for this active cat. The exact choice depends on age, neutering, activity level, and the veterinarian’s recommendations.

Amounts

How much should you give?

The daily amount must be adjusted according to the cat’s weight, age, neutering and actual activity. It is better to think in terms of a measured ration than free-feeding if activity is insufficient.

WeightDaily amountMeals/day
3 - 4 kg54 - 78 g2
4 - 6 kg70 - 100 g2
6 - 7 kg86 - 121 g2

Change

Managing the food transition

Any change in diet must be made gradually over several days to limit digestive disorders and promote good acceptance of the new food.

Hydration

Water: do not overlook it

Fresh water must remain available at all times. Good hydration is particularly important in cats fed mainly on kibble.

Little extras

Treats, in moderation

Treats should remain occasional and be included in the calculation of the daily ration. They can be useful as a reward during games and simple learning.

Good habits

For a top-notch bowl

  • Weigh the daily ration rather than feeding by eye.
  • Split the ration into several servings if that helps regulate appetite.
  • Combine feeding with search games or playful dispensers.

Never give

Chocolate, onion, garlic, grapes, alcohol, caffeine, cooked bones and certain sweeteners such as xylitol are dangerous for the cat and can cause serious digestive, neurological, renal or hematological disorders.