What Should Cats Eat Everyday?

As a loving cat owner, providing your feline friend with the right nutrition is one of the most important responsibilities you have.

Cats have very specific dietary needs that differ significantly from other pets like dogs.

Feeding your cat the proper foods and portions each day is crucial for maintaining their health, energy, and overall wellbeing. In this comprehensive blog post, we'll dive into the key components of a healthy, balanced cat diet.

You'll learn exactly what cats should eat on a daily basis, portion sizes, and tips for transitioning your cat to a new food.

The Basics of Feline Nutrition

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require certain nutrients that can only be obtained through the consumption of animal-based proteins.

Unlike omnivorous animals like humans and dogs, cats cannot thrive on a plant-based diet alone. Their bodies are specifically adapted to digest and utilize the nutrients found in meat, organs, and other animal-derived ingredients.

The three most essential macronutrients for cats are:

Protein: Cats need a high-protein diet, with protein making up at least 25-30% of their total caloric intake. The amino acids in animal proteins are critical for supporting a cat's muscle development, immune function, and overall health.
Fats: Fats should account for 20-35% of a cat's daily caloric intake. Healthy fats provide cats with a concentrated source of energy and support the absorption of essential vitamins.
Carbohydrates: While cats don't require large amounts of carbohydrates, some complex carbs like fiber are important for digestive health. Carbs should make up no more than 5-10% of a cat's diet.

In addition to these macros, cats also need a variety of essential vitamins, minerals, and other micronutrients to thrive.

Some of the key micronutrients include:

Vitamin A
Vitamin B12
Vitamin D
Calcium
Phosphorus
Taurine

Taurine, in particular, is an amino acid that cats cannot produce on their own and must obtain through their diet.

Deficiencies in taurine can lead to serious health issues like heart disease and blindness.

The Optimal Daily Cat Diet

Now that we've covered the basic nutritional needs of cats, let's dive into the specific foods and portions they should consume on a daily basis.

1. Protein Sources

As obligate carnivores, the bulk of a cat's diet should consist of high-quality animal proteins.

Some of the best protein sources for cats include:

Chicken
Turkey
Beef
Lamb
Fish (e.g. tuna, salmon)
Organ meats (e.g. liver, heart)

Cats thrive on a varied protein intake, so it's best to rotate between different meat and fish options throughout the week.

This ensures they get a diverse array of amino acids and other nutrients.

It's important to note that raw meat can potentially contain harmful bacteria like salmonella and E. coli, so it's generally recommended to feed cats cooked, canned, or freeze-dried protein sources instead.

Some cat owners do choose to feed a raw diet, but this should only be done under the guidance of a veterinarian.

2. Fats and Oils

In addition to protein, cats also require healthy fats and oils to meet their energy needs and support organ function.

Some excellent fat sources include:

Fish oil (for omega-3 fatty acids)
Chicken fat
Beef tallow
Coconut oil

Fats should make up around 20-35% of a cat's total caloric intake.

Avoid feeding cats large amounts of vegetable oils, which lack the essential fatty acids they need.

3. Carbohydrates and Fiber

As mentioned earlier, cats don't require large amounts of carbohydrates in their diet.

However, some complex carbs and fiber can be beneficial for digestive health.

Good carbohydrate sources for cats include:

Brown rice
Oats
Barley
Pumpkin
Sweet potatoes

Aim to keep carb intake under 10% of your cat's total calories.

Fiber-rich ingredients like pumpkin and beet pulp can also help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation.

4. Vitamins and Minerals

To ensure your cat is getting all the essential micronutrients they need, look for a high-quality cat food that is complete and balanced.

Many commercial cat foods are fortified with the necessary vitamins and minerals, including:

Vitamin A
B-complex vitamins
Vitamin D
Calcium
Phosphorus
Iron
Zinc

You can also supplement your cat's diet with a small amount of organ meats, which are extremely nutrient-dense.

Just be sure not to overdo it, as too much of certain vitamins and minerals can be harmful.

Portion Sizes

The appropriate portion size for a cat will depend on factors like their age, activity level, and overall health status.

As a general guideline:

Kittens (up to 1 year old): 20-30 calories per pound of body weight per day
Adult cats (1-10 years old): 20-35 calories per pound of body weight per day
Senior cats (10+ years old): 20-30 calories per pound of body weight per day

It's best to split your cat's daily caloric intake into 2-3 smaller meals throughout the day.

This helps maintain their energy levels and prevents overeating.

Always refer to the feeding guidelines on your cat's food packaging as a starting point, then adjust portions as needed based on your individual cat's needs.

Transitioning to a New Cat Food

If you're looking to switch your cat to a new food, it's important to do so gradually to avoid digestive upset.

Sudden changes in diet can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues.

Here's a recommended 7-10 day transition process:

Days 1-2: Mix 25% of the new food with 75% of the old food.
Days 3-4: Mix 50% new food with 50% old food.
Days 5-6: Mix 75% new food with 25% old food.
Days 7-10: Feed 100% of the new food.

During the transition, closely monitor your cat's eating habits, energy levels, and litter box habits.

If you notice any signs of digestive distress, slow down the transition and consult your veterinarian. It's also a good idea to choose a new cat food that is similar in protein, fat, and carb content to your cat's current diet.

Drastic changes can be harder for their system to adjust to. Look for high-quality, complete and balanced cat foods that meet AAFCO nutritional standards.

Supplementing the Diet

While a balanced, high-quality cat food should provide most of the nutrients your feline needs, there are a few optional supplements that can further support their health:

Omega-3 fatty acids: Fish oil or krill oil supplements can help reduce inflammation and support skin/coat health.
Probiotics: Probiotic supplements promote a healthy gut microbiome and digestion.
Joint supplements: Glucosamine and chondroitin can help maintain joint mobility, especially in senior cats.
Dental treats: Crunchy dental treats and chews help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.

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Conclusion

Providing your cat with a nutritious, balanced diet is one of the most important ways you can support their overall health and wellbeing.

By focusing on high-quality protein sources, healthy fats, and the right mix of vitamins and minerals, you can ensure your feline friend thrives. With the right nutrition plan in place, your cat will have the energy, vitality, and longevity to be a loving, playful companion for years to come.

If you have any other questions about your cat's diet, be sure to consult your veterinarian.