The Complete Family Guide to Cat Nutrition: Helping Your Feline Friend Thrive

How Much Should You Feed Your Cat?

Feeding too much or too little can be harmful. Here’s how to get it right:

  • Follow package instructions based on your cat’s weight
  • Adjust for age, activity level, and body condition
  • Split into 2-3 meals per day (cats like routine)

Let kids help by measuring food with a scoop and keeping a chart!


Nutrition for Every Life Stage

Cats have different needs depending on their age. Here’s how to feed accordingly:


Kittens (0–12 Months)

  • Need high protein and fat for growth
  • Eat multiple small meals per day
  • Should only eat kitten-specific food

This is a great time for kids to track growth and feeding times on a shared calendar!


Adult Cats (1–7 Years)

  • Need a balanced diet to maintain weight and energy
  • Most eat 2 meals per day
  • Watch for weight gain in indoor cats

Use a feeding routine and include kids in “dinnertime” tasks.


Senior Cats (7+ Years)

  • May need softer food or joint-supporting nutrients
  • Often drink less, so hydration is key
  • Weight loss or gain can signal health issues

Children can help observe any changes in appetite or activity and tell an adult.


Treats and Snacks: What’s Safe?

Treats are fun, but they should be limited to 5–10% of your cat’s daily calories.


Healthy Options:

  • Freeze-dried meat treats
  • Small bits of cooked chicken or salmon
  • Commercial cat treats labeled “nutritionally complete”

Avoid:

  • Dairy (most cats are lactose intolerant!)
  • Chocolate, onions, garlic
  • Grapes, raisins, or anything sweetened with xylitol

Children love giving treats, so teach them how to do it responsibly.


Special Diets and Allergies

Some cats have sensitive stomachs or allergies. Signs include:

  • Itchy skin
  • Excessive grooming or hair loss
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Litter box troubles

Special diets are available for:

  • Hairball control
  • Weight management
  • Urinary health
  • Grain sensitivity

If your cat needs a special diet, involve your kids in learning which foods are safe and which are off-limits.


Cat Nutrition Myths to Avoid

Let’s clear up a few common misunderstandings:

  • Myth: Cats need milk.
    Truth: Most cats can’t digest milk and it causes stomach upset.
  • Myth: A vegetarian diet is fine for cats.
    Truth: Cats must eat meat. Period.
  • Myth: Feeding once a day is enough.
    Truth: Cats prefer small, frequent meals.
  • Myth: Table scraps are okay.
    Truth: Many human foods are toxic or too rich for cats.

Help your children spot fact from fiction when it comes to their furry friend’s food.


Involving Kids in Cat Care

Your cat may be independent, but their care should be a family affair. Including children in your cat’s feeding and nutrition builds empathy, consistency, and responsibility.

Fun ways to involve them:

  • Daily food and water checks
  • Keeping a feeding log or chore chart
  • Learning which treats are safe
  • Drawing a cat food pyramid together
  • Helping make safe DIY cat treats
  • Noticing changes in appetite or energy

You can also encourage story time or reading near the food bowl as a bonding ritual.


Feeding With Love

A healthy cat is a happy cat. And a happy cat makes a peaceful, joyful home. By feeding your feline friend with love and care, your family helps your pet live a long and comfortable life. From measuring dry food to selecting a tasty treat, every small act makes a big difference.

Kids who help care for their pets learn kindness, responsibility, and respect for living creatures. And what could be more meaningful than that?