A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Kitten : A growth diet rich in proteins and energy is recommended, with several small meals per day to support bone and muscle development.
Adult : The ration must cover its maintenance needs without promoting overweight, with an adjustment according to neutering, activity and whether or not it has access to the outdoors.
Senior : A more digestible formula, well supplied with protein and adapted to renal, joint and oral-dental condition can become useful with age depending on the veterinary assessment.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Premium cat kibble, possibly combined with a portion of wet food, is well suited provided it has a high density of animal proteins and a balanced composition. The exact choice must take into account age, activity level, neutering and any digestive sensitivities.
Amounts
How much should you give?
Quantities vary depending on actual weight, neutering, exercise level and the energy density of the food. It is better to think in terms of a personalized ration and adjust it according to body condition rather than follow a fixed amount all year round.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 4 - 5 kg | 66 - 94 g | 2 |
| 5 - 7 kg | 82 - 116 g | 2 |
| 7 - 8 kg | 98 - 137 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any dietary transition must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive upsets and promote good acceptance. The change is generally better tolerated when the proportion of the new food is gradually increased.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Good hydration is essential, especially in cats fed mainly on kibble. Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times, ideally in several places in the home. A portion of wet food can also help support water intake.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional and included in the calculation of the overall ration. They are mainly useful as a reward in games, training or routine care, without exceeding a small share of the daily energy intake.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the portion rather than pouring it in by eye.
- Split daily meals to limit excessive snacking.
- Combine fresh water and, if needed, wet food to support hydration.
- Reassess the portion after sterilization or a decrease in activity.
Never give
Chocolate, onion, garlic, grapes, alcohol, coffee, tea, cooked bones and very fatty or very salty foods should be avoided because they can cause digestive, neurological, kidney or heart disorders in cats. Any human medication must also be kept out of reach.
