Introduction
Proper nutrition is the cornerstone of your short-haired cat's health and longevity. This guide covers everything from diet types to feeding schedules, ensuring your feline friend thrives.
Recommended Diet Types
Raw Food (Bone & Raw Food, BARF)
Raw diets mimic a cat's natural prey, consisting of muscle meat, organs, and bones. They are rich in moisture and protein but require careful handling to avoid bacterial contamination.
Dry Food (Kibble)
Convenient and shelf-stable, dry food often contains carbohydrates. Choose high-protein, low-carb options with whole meat as the first ingredient.
Wet Food (Canned)
Wet food provides high moisture content (70-80%), supporting urinary tract health. Ideal for cats that don't drink enough water.
Homemade Food
Homemade meals allow control over ingredients but must be nutritionally balanced. Consult a veterinary nutritionist to avoid deficiencies.
Portion Sizes & Daily Caloric Needs by Age, Size & Activity
Caloric needs vary. Use the following table as a general guide. Always adjust based on body condition.
| Life Stage | Weight (kg) | Daily Calories (kcal) | Dry Food (g/day) | Wet Food (cans/day, 85g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kitten (2-6 months) | 0.5-2 | 100-150 | 30-50 | 1-1.5 |
| Adult (1-7 years, low activity) | 4-5 | 200-250 | 50-60 | 2-2.5 |
| Adult (active) | 4-5 | 250-300 | 60-70 | 2.5-3 |
| Senior (7+ years) | 4-5 | 180-220 | 45-55 | 1.5-2 |
Note: Adjust for individual metabolism; use body condition scoring.
Feeding Frequency & Schedule
- Kittens (under 6 months): 3-4 meals per day.
- Adults: 2 meals per day (morning and evening).
- Seniors: 2-3 smaller meals; warm food to stimulate appetite.
Consistent feeding times promote digestive health. Avoid leaving dry food out all day (free-feeding) to prevent obesity.
Essential Nutrients
Protein
Cats are obligate carnivores; animal protein (from meat, poultry, fish) provides essential amino acids like taurine. Aim for at least 40% dry matter protein.
Fat
Provides energy and supports skin/coat health. Look for omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. Minimum 15% dry matter fat for adults.
Carbohydrates
Not essential; minimal carbs (0-10%) are ideal. Avoid fillers like corn, wheat, soy.
Vitamins & Minerals
- Taurine: Essential for heart and vision; must be supplemented in commercial diets.
- Vitamin A, D, E, B-complex, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, etc.
Toxic & Harmful Foods
Never feed these to your cat:
- Onions, garlic, chives (cause hemolytic anemia)
- Grapes and raisins (kidney failure)
- Chocolate, caffeine (cardiac issues)
- Alcohol, raw dough (poisoning, bloating)
- Xylitol (artificial sweetener in gum, candy) — causes insulin spike
- Cooked bones (splinter; raw bones are okay with supervision)
- Milk, dairy (lactose intolerance)
Water Intake
Cats have low thirst drive. Provide fresh water daily; use a fountain to encourage drinking. Wet food contributes to hydration (target 50-70 ml water per kg body weight daily).
Supplements
Supplements may benefit some cats. Always consult a vet before adding:
- Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) — for skin, coat, joints
- Probiotics — for digestive health
- Glucosamine/chondroitin — for joint health in seniors
- L-lysine — may support immune system (controversial)
Life Stage Differences
Kittens (0-12 months)
- Higher protein, calories, calcium for growth.
- Small, frequent meals.
- Weaning at 4 weeks; gradual transition to kitten food.
Adults (1-7 years)
- Maintenance diet with moderate calories.
- Adjust for activity and prevent obesity.
Seniors (7+ years)
- Lower calories, but high-quality protein.
- Easily digestible food; consider senior-specific formulas.
- Monitor dental health; soften food if needed.
Signs of Healthy vs. Poor Diet
Healthy Diet Signs
- Shiny, soft coat; clear eyes; good weight; firm stools; clean teeth; energy and playfulness.
Poor Diet Signs
- Dull coat, dandruff; weight loss or gain; vomiting, diarrhea; bad breath; lethargy; excessive shedding, inflammation, or itching.
If you notice any concerning signs, consult your veterinarian immediately.