Cat guide ·
How Often Should You Feed a Cat? Kittens, Adults and Seniors
By the Brus Crew, a family with a house full of cats
How often should you feed a cat? Most healthy adult cats do well on two or more small meals a day, kittens need three or four, and older cats may prefer smaller, more frequent meals. The right amount depends on the food, your cat's age, weight and activity, so always check the feeding guide on the pack and ask your vet if you are unsure.
Key points
- Kittens (under 6 months) usually need 3 to 4 meals a day, then 2 to 3 until they are about a year old.
- Adult cats are commonly fed 2 meals a day, or more smaller meals if that suits them.
- Follow the pack guide for portions, then adjust with your vet if your cat gains or loses weight.
- Always leave fresh water available.
- If your cat's appetite changes suddenly, speak to your vet.
How often to feed at each age
Kittens
Kittens grow fast and have small stomachs, so they need little and often. A common pattern is 3 to 4 meals a day of a food made for kittens. Our kitten growth stages guide shows how much they change, and our fully grown guide says when you can switch to adult food.
Adult cats
Two meals a day, morning and evening, suits many cats and helps you notice when one is off their food. Some owners split the same amount into three or four smaller meals, which can suit cats who like to graze.
Senior cats
Older cats may need a different diet, and some do better with smaller, more frequent meals, especially if they have dental problems or a lower appetite. Our senior cat health guide has more.
How much should a cat eat?
Start with the guide on the food packaging, which gives a daily amount by weight. Treats count too, so keep them to a small part of the day's food. Weigh your cat now and then, and check that you can feel their ribs under a thin layer of fat. If they are gaining or losing weight, ask your vet for advice. Our what to feed a cat guide covers what a complete diet looks like.
Wet food, dry food or both?
Both are fine if they are complete foods made for cats. Wet food adds moisture to the diet, while dry food is convenient and does not spoil as quickly in the bowl. Many people feed a mix. Wet food left out for hours should be thrown away, and any opened tins or pouches kept covered in the fridge.
Should you free feed?
Leaving dry food out all day works for some cats, but it makes it harder to track how much they eat and can lead to weight gain. Measured meals, or a puzzle feeder, tend to give you more control. A multi-cat home can be harder, because one cat may eat for everyone, so feeding separately helps.
Tips for happy mealtimes
- Keep a routine, because cats like predictability.
- Feed away from the litter tray, and from noisy spots.
- Use wide, shallow bowls if your cat dislikes their whiskers touching the sides.
- Change foods gradually over about a week to avoid tummy upsets.
- Keep human foods that are toxic to cats out of reach. Our 12 things toxic to cats infographic is worth saving.
When to ask your vet
Get advice if your cat stops eating for a day or more, suddenly eats much more, loses weight, drinks a lot, or vomits often. Our crew's Sansa shows good mealtime manners, but even she would tell you a missed meal is not something to ignore.
Questions people ask
Can I feed my cat once a day?
Some cats are fed once a day, but many do better with at least two meals. Ask your vet what suits your cat.
Why is my cat always hungry?
It can be habit, boredom or a sign of a health issue. If it is a change, or your cat is losing weight, speak to your vet.
How long can a cat go without eating?
Not long. A cat that has not eaten for 24 hours should be seen by a vet, because cats can become seriously ill if they go without food.
Should I give my cat milk?
No need. Many cats cannot digest cow's milk well. Fresh water is best, and your vet can advise about special cat milk.
How do I know if I am overfeeding?
If your cat is gaining weight, or you cannot feel their ribs easily, your vet can check and help with a plan.
