How Much Should Your Cat Eat a Day?

The feeding table on the bag is a starting point, not the final number. It is based on a cat's weight, but a calm indoor cat needs less than an active one of the same weight, and an older cat usually needs less again. Split the daily amount into two or three meals instead of leaving the bowl full all day. Set meals let you notice quickly if your cat's appetite drops, and they cut down on eating out of boredom. If you feed wet and dry food together, count both: take away as much dry food as the wet food adds, and read the table on each. Keep clean water out at all times; cats do not drink much by nature, and water near where they sleep encourages them. Weigh your cat once a month, because gradual gain does not show to the eye. When you change food, mix the new with the old over seven to ten days so her stomach can adjust. If her weight or appetite changes suddenly, your vet is the one to find out why.