Pet Care and Training
Calories, body condition and daily habits help guide your cat’s food
A bowl can look reasonable while weight creeps up. The right daily amount depends on your cat’s weight, body condition, life stage, activity, health and the calories in its food.
A cup of one kibble may contain more calories than a cup of another. Check kcal per cup, can or gram, and use the package’s feeding chart as a starting guide.
Treats, medication snacks and puzzle-feeder food all add calories. Measure the full daily ration, weigh dry food when possible, and record both wet and dry food portions.
Check the calories in each can or pouch and count that portion toward the daily total. Package sizes vary, so don’t assume one can is a meal for every cat.
Two meals or several smaller meals can work. Divide the planned daily amount among them; for a grazing cat, measure the day’s portion in the morning instead of topping up by feel.
Weigh your cat regularly using the same scale and a similar time of day. Body condition, assessed by looking and gently feeling, helps show whether its weight is on track.
Call your veterinarian if your cat suddenly eats much more or less, or loses weight without a planned diet change. A feeding log can help explain portions and food changes.
A 2-year-old cat’s age alone can’t determine its daily serving. Check the food’s calorie information and feeding guidance, then consider your cat’s body condition and needs.
Chronic kidney disease is sometimes called a “silent killer” because early signs can be subtle. Ask your veterinarian about changes in appetite, thirst or weight.
Start with the food label, measure the full daily ration and track your cat’s weight and body condition. Ask your veterinarian to confirm the plan or advise on changes.
Keep reading