Cats should generally eat about 25 to 35 calories per pound of their body weight per day. For example, a 10-pound cat typically needs around 250 to 300 calories daily, depending on their activity level and health status
General Guidelines for Daily Caloric Intake:
- Adult cats (1 to 7 years old): 200-300 calories per day for a 10-pound cat.
- Kittens: Require 2 to 3 times the adult caloric intake, fed in 3-4 smaller meals daily.
- Senior cats: Usually need slightly fewer calories, around 180-220 calories per day for a 10-pound cat
Feeding Portions:
- If feeding dry food, check the calorie content on the package. For example, if dry food has 500 kcal per cup and your cat needs 250 kcal/day, feed about ½ cup daily.
- For wet food, a 3.5-ounce can may contain around 180 kcal. A 10-pound cat eating 250 kcal/day would get roughly ¾ of a can plus some dry food if feeding a mix
Feeding Frequency:
- Most cats do well with at least two meals per day.
- Kittens benefit from 3-4 smaller meals daily to avoid overeating and support healthy growth.
- Some cats may do well with more frequent smaller meals, especially if they tend to beg or eat small amounts at a time
Additional Notes:
- Treats should make up no more than 10% of the cat’s daily calorie intake.
- Activity level, age, weight, and health conditions affect calorie needs; consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
- Monitor your cat’s weight regularly and adjust food portions accordingly to maintain a healthy body condition
In summary, feeding your cat about 25-35 calories per pound of body weight daily, divided into at least two meals, is a good starting point. Adjust based on your cat’s individual needs and veterinary guidance.
