A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Kitten : A complete growth diet, split into several meals, helps support the harmonious development and activity of the young cat.
Adult : A balanced ration adapted to weight and activity level helps maintain a stable body condition.
Senior : With age, a more digestible diet and regular veterinary follow-up help preserve overall condition and muscle mass.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
High-quality kibble may be suitable, ideally combined with a portion of wet food to promote hydration. The key is to choose a complete cat formula, rich in animal proteins, and suited to the individual's life stage.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount must be adjusted according to actual weight, body condition, activity and sterilization. It is better to base it on the manufacturer's recommendations then refine with the veterinarian in order to avoid both underfeeding and gradual weight gain.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 3 - 4 kg | 54 - 78 g | 2 |
| 4 - 6 kg | 70 - 100 g | 2 |
| 6 - 7 kg | 86 - 121 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive upsets and encourage acceptance of the new food. A slow transition is particularly useful for sensitive or selective cats.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times. Many cats drink little spontaneously, hence the benefit of wet food, several water points in the house, or a fountain if the cat is receptive to it.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional and represent a small part of the daily intake. They can be useful to positively reinforce certain learning or enrich the relationship, provided they are counted in the overall ration.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the ration to avoid gradual excesses.
- If possible, combine dry and wet food to support hydration.
- Split the portions if the cat is greedy or not very active.
Never give
In particular, you should avoid chocolate, onion, garlic, grapes, alcohol, caffeine, cooked bones and any very salty or fatty food, as they can cause digestive, neurological, hematological or renal disorders that are sometimes serious in cats.
