Cat Feeding 101: Portions, Schedules, and Fresh Water

Cats do best with a bit of structure around mealtime. Here's how to set up a routine that's easy to stick to.

Set a schedule

Two set meals a day (rather than free-feeding all day) makes it easier to track how much your cat is actually eating, and helps prevent boredom-driven snacking.

Watch the portions

Portion sizes vary a lot by food brand, your cat's weight, and activity level, so the packaging guidelines are a better starting point than guesswork. If you're not sure your cat's portions are right, your vet can help you dial it in.

Fresh water, always

Cats are notoriously bad at drinking enough water on their own. Keeping a bowl (or fountain) topped up with fresh water, away from the food bowl, can encourage them to drink more.

Treats in moderation

Treats are a great training tool, but they add up fast. A good rule of thumb is keeping treats to well under 10% of your cat's daily calories.

Small, consistent habits make a bigger difference than any single "perfect" meal.