Clean food and water dishes thoroughly every day.
Your adult cat may be reluctant to eat the first couple of days in her new home as she adjusts. This is not unusual due to the stress associated with all the changes she has recently experienced.
What to Feed
Adult cats (8 months & older):
Adult cats should eat enough of a highquality, nutritious food to meet their energy needs. The amount should be based on the cat’s size and energy output.
- Feed two scheduled meals per day. Free feeding of high quality dry food may work, but can lead to obesity in some cats.
- We recommend dry food as the main base of the diet supplemented with a small amount of canned food twice daily to help assure the cat is getting enough moisture in his diet.
- Discard any food left after 24 hours before cleaning and refilling the dish. Follow amount guidelines on the pet food bag.
- Monitor your cat’s weight and adjust food portions accordingly. If you cannot feel his ribs, he may be overweight, a condition that can lead to serious health problems. Check into pet food brands that have a low-calorie option.
- Fresh water should be available at all times.
Kittens (under 8 months):
Feed high-quality, dry kitten food that is high in nutrients and low in magnesium ash (which may contribute to urinary disorders).
- Dry food helps to clean teeth and, if nutritionally complete, should be the bulk of the kitten’s diet.
- Dry food can be left out with free access so the kitten can eat when hungry.
- Supplement with a small amount of canned food twice daily, as much as the kitten can eat in 15 minutes.
- Limit canned fish.
- Fresh water should be available at all times in a spill-proof, clean bowl.
- Do not give cow’s milk as most cats are lactose intolerant and may get diarrhea as a result.
- Report any changes in eating behavior to your veterinarian, as they could signal a medical problem. If your kitten loses weight rather than gains it, call your veterinarian immediately!
