A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Kitten : A growth diet that is more energy-dense and split into several small meals helps support development without overloading digestion.
Adult : The ration must be adjusted to the ideal weight and actual activity, with strict control to limit excess weight.
Senior : With age, weight, teeth, and hydration must be monitored more closely, and the energy density adjusted if activity decreases.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
High-quality kibble or a mixed diet suits the Exotic well, provided you aim for a balanced, digestible formula that is moderate in calories if the cat is not very active. The texture and size of the kibble must also remain comfortable for a flat-faced cat.
Amounts
How much should you give?
In adults, the daily amount depends mainly on ideal weight, activity and physiological status. A commonly observed baseline is around 75 to 160 g of kibble per day, to be refined with the veterinarian to avoid any weight gain.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 3 - 4 kg | 45 - 65 g | 2 |
| 4 - 5 kg | 55 - 80 g | 2 |
| 5 - 7 kg | 65 - 95 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any dietary change must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive upsets and improve acceptance. A slow transition is particularly useful in a routine-oriented cat like the Exotic.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times. A water fountain or the integration of a portion of wet food can help some individuals stay better hydrated on a daily basis.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats must remain occasional and be included in the calculation of the total ration. In the Exotic, it is preferable to favor small, quality rewards rather than frequent extras that promote overweight.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration to avoid excess.
- Split the food intake into at least 2 meals per day.
- Stimulate activity with games to limit weight gain.
- Ask for a veterinary adjustment if the weight changes quickly.
Never give
As with other cats, it is necessary to avoid in particular chocolate, onion, garlic, grapes, alcohol, caffeine, cooked bones and foods that are too salty or too fatty, as they can cause serious digestive, neurological, hematological or metabolic disorders.
