A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Kitten : A complete growth diet, split into several meals, supports development without unnecessary excess energy.
Adult : The ration must be adjusted to the ideal weight, activity level and neutering status to limit weight gain.
Senior : With age, a more digestible formula and regular monitoring of weight, hydration and kidney function become useful.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
Premium kibble for adult cats, neutered or not neutered, possibly combined with wet food, generally works very well. The main thing is to choose a formula rich in animal proteins, digestible and adapted to its physiological status.
Amounts
How much should you give?
The daily amount depends on the ideal weight, the energy density of the food, the activity and neutering. It is preferable to think in terms of body condition goal rather than simple appetite, because the breed can easily gain weight if the portions are poorly adjusted.
| 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 of food must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive upsets and improve acceptance. A slow transition is particularly useful in cats attached to their habits.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Good hydration is essential, especially if the diet is mainly based on kibble. Clean water renewed every day, several water points in the house and the addition of wet food can help maintain a good water intake.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional and represent a small part of the daily energy intake. They are useful for reinforcing positive handling and play, but they must be included in the calculation of the total ration.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weighing the ration helps avoid everyday invisible excesses.
- Splitting meals can improve satiety in greedy cats.
- Combining wet food and fresh water promotes hydration.
Never give
As with other cats, it is necessary to avoid in particular chocolate, onion, garlic, grapes, alcohol, caffeine, cooked bones and very salty or very fatty food, because these foods can cause digestive, neurological, hepatic or renal disorders that are sometimes serious.
