A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Kitten : Favor a complete growth food, split into several small meals and adjusted regularly to the weight.
Adult : Maintain a measured ration rich in animal proteins and monitor the body shape each month.
Senior : Adjust the energy intake and the texture to medical, dental and renal needs with the veterinarian.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
A complete wet diet can form the basis of the ration in order to support hydration, possibly combined with quality kibble in measured quantity. Any homemade ration must be formulated by a veterinary nutritionist to avoid deficiencies.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount must be calculated based on the food’s energy density, ideal weight, age, neutering and activity. The manufacturer’s guidelines serve as a starting point, then the ration is adjusted according to changes in body shape.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 3 - 4 kg | 180 - 240 g d'aliment humide | 2 - 3 |
| 4 - 5 kg | 220 - 280 g d'aliment humide | 2 - 3 |
| 5 - 6 kg | 250 - 320 g d'aliment humide | 2 - 3 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change of food must be gradual over seven to ten days by slowly increasing the share of the new product. A slower transition may be necessary in case of loose stools, decreased appetite or digestive sensitivity.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Several bowls of fresh water, wide and far from the litter box, must remain accessible. A fountain and a regular portion of wet food can encourage water consumption and contribute to urinary comfort.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional and represent less than 10% of the daily energy intake. Small pieces suitable for cats can serve as a reward during brushing, transport, or learning handling.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the daily ration rather than filling the bowl freely.
- Split the food into several small meals.
- Introduce any new food gradually.
- Monitor weight and body shape each month.
- Use an interactive bowl to encourage moderate activity.
Never give
Chocolate, onion, garlic, leek, grapes, alcohol, caffeine, xylitol, cooked bones and human medications are dangerous. Cow's milk can cause digestive disorders, and any suspected ingestion requires quickly contacting a veterinarian.
