Everything you need to know about feeding your cat/kitten
Your kitty’s diet is essential to help support their growth and development and helps build a healthy immune system.
As a first-time cat owner, it can be difficult to know how to feed them – regarding what, how much and how often.
In this post, the Pet Shop Online team takes you through everything you need to know about feeding your new cat or kitten, and how to give them the nutrients they need to thrive.
What should I feed my cat?
With hundreds of cat foods on the market, and many of them looking similar, it’s easy for the selection process to feel overwhelming.
However, choosing food for your kitty cat is one of the first and most important decisions you have to make.
You should always make sure that the food you’re feeding your furry friend is right for them, and meets all of their nutritional demands.
To help narrow your options down, consider these things:
- How much exercise your cat gets
- How much they weigh
- Their life stage (i.e., kitten, adult or senior)
- If they have any health conditions
At Pet Shop Online, we stock a variety of cat and kitten foods, that cater to all kitties – regardless of their nutritional needs.
Is wet or dry food better for my cat?
Every cat has their preferences when it comes to food, and their tastes for flavour and textures are formed in early kittenhood.
There are pros and cons to both wet and dry food and you should opt for whatever you feel is the most suitable.
Wet food is an excellent source of extra hydration, for cats that are reluctant to drink by themselves, and the texture can be easier to eat for those suffering from mouth pain.
Wet foods also tend to have a stronger smell, making them much more appealing to picky pussycats who need more encouragement at mealtimes.
Dry food, on the other hand, is very economical and can be great for cats that eat a little slower, as you can leave it out for the day.
It’s generally better for your pet’s dental health, and if you like the idea of dry food but are worried about hydration – a little water can be added to the top of most dry foods.
How often should I feed my cat?
How often you feed your cat varies, depending on their age.
If your cat is older than 6 months old, it’s recommended that you feed them at least twice every day.
Once they’re over a year old, they should be fine if fed once every day – but this will likely differ, and they might still need two meals a day.
Can my cat’s diet help with health conditions?
Absolutely!
Nutritional intake affects all parts of your cat, and their diet can have a big impact on their health.
Therapeutic diets can be used to treat symptoms of a wide range of health conditions, including:
- Kidney, liver and heart disease
- Digestive support and food sensitivity
- Urinary health
- Joint support
- Skin support
- Diabetes
- Post-operative recovery
If you need some guidance on which food is best, be sure to get in touch with the team at Pet Shop Online, we’re always on hand and happy to help identify the best diet for your kitty.
Get your kitten’s diet in check with Pet Shop Online
At Pet Shop Online, we’re passionate about providing the highest quality cat and kitten foods for your fur baby.
From some of the UK’s most trusted brands, including Natures Menu and Catit, you can be sure your feline friend is getting a tasty meal and the nutrients they need to thrive – at some of the most competitive prices, too!
Need more info on how to feed your cat or kitten?
Give us a call on 0161 728 4656 or send your query by email to shop@pet-shop-online.co.uk for a speedy reply from one of our experts.
If you’re local, why not visit our store in Swinton? We’d love to meet you and find out more about how we can be of assistance.
Get your directions here!
