Cats are obligate carnivores, what that means
Unlike dogs, cats are obligate (strict) carnivores. Their metabolism is specifically adapted to using animal-sourced protein and fat as primary energy and nutrient sources. They cannot synthesize several essential nutrients that other mammals produce on their own, and this has critical implications for feeding.
The most important nutrients cats must obtain directly from animal tissue include: taurine (essential for heart and eye health), arachidonic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid), vitamin A (cats cannot convert beta-carotene from plants), vitamin D3 (must come from animal sources), and niacin (cats have severely limited ability to synthesize it). A diet based on plant proteins, or a homemade diet without proper formulation, will quickly lead to these deficiencies.
✅ Key rule: Only feed your cat food specifically formulated and tested for cats. Dog food, vegetarian diets, or diets primarily based on grains and vegetables will cause serious nutritional deficiencies over time, even if the cat appears healthy in the short term.
Wet vs dry cat food: which is better?
This is one of the most debated topics in feline nutrition, and the honest answer is: it depends on the individual cat. However, most veterinary nutritionists lean toward recommending wet food, or at least a mixed approach, for the following reason: hydration.
The hydration argument
Cats evolved in arid North African environments and have a naturally low thirst drive. Their kidneys evolved to concentrate urine very efficiently, which means they can survive on little water, but chronic mild dehydration is a significant risk factor for lower urinary tract disease (LUTD), bladder crystals, and chronic kidney disease (CKD), the leading cause of death in older cats.
Wet food contains 70-80% moisture; dry food contains only 8-10%. A cat on exclusively dry food and minimal water intake is therefore at significantly higher risk of urinary and renal problems over their lifetime. Using our Water Intake Calculator can help you estimate how much additional bowl water your cat needs based on their diet.
Arguments for dry food
Dry food is more calorie-dense (making portion control easier), more cost-effective, and can be left out without spoiling. For cats that drink adequate water and maintain healthy urinary function, a high-quality dry food is perfectly suitable. Many cats thrive on dry food their entire lives.
The mixed diet approach
Many vets recommend a combination: dry food for convenience and dental crunch, supplemented with one or two wet meals per day. This increases moisture intake without the cost of an all-wet diet. Use our Cat Food Calculator to calculate calorie totals from both food types.
Life-stage feeding for cats
Kittens (0–12 months)
Kittens need approximately 2-3 times the calories per kg compared to adult cats, with higher protein and fat to support rapid growth. Use a food specifically labeled for kittens or "all life stages" (which must meet both kitten and adult requirements). Feed 3-4 small meals per day for kittens under 6 months; twice daily from 6 months. Avoid cow's milk, most cats are lactose intolerant.
Adults (1–7 years)
Maintenance nutrition. A quality food meeting AAFCO/FEDIAF standards for adults or all life stages is appropriate. The primary risk in this life stage is obesity, indoor cats, especially if neutered, are prone to weight gain. Monitor body condition score regularly, and use our Cat Food Calculator for calorie guidance. Sterilized indoor cats may need 20-30% fewer calories than the package suggests.
Senior cats (7+ years)
Senior cats (7-10 years) and geriatric cats (10+) have different needs depending on health status. Unlike dogs, senior cats often need MORE calories, not fewer, many older cats experience weight loss and muscle wasting (sarcopenia) even when eating well. High-quality protein is especially important for seniors; do not reduce protein unless there is confirmed kidney disease, and then only under veterinary guidance.
The AAFP recommends twice-yearly wellness exams for cats over 7, specifically to catch early signs of hyperthyroidism, CKD, and dental disease, all of which significantly impact nutrition.
Foods that are toxic to cats 🚫
⚠️ Never feed these to your cat: Onions, garlic, chives (all forms, raw, cooked, powder), grapes and raisins, chocolate, xylitol (in sugar-free products), alcohol, raw yeast dough, raw fish in large amounts (contains thiaminase which destroys thiamine), and tuna as a primary diet (mercury risk and thiamine deficiency). If you suspect poisoning, contact your vet or an animal poison control line immediately.
Note that unlike dogs, cats should also not be fed raw egg whites (avidin blocks biotin absorption) or liver in large amounts (vitamin A toxicity risk). Small amounts of plain cooked chicken, turkey, or fish (boneless, unseasoned) are safe as treats in moderation.
How to read a cat food label
The same principles as dog food apply: look for a named animal protein in the first ingredient (chicken, salmon, turkey, not "poultry by-products" of unknown origin for primary protein), and verify the AAFCO or FEDIAF statement of adequacy for the correct life stage. For cats specifically, verify that taurine is listed as an ingredient or included in the guaranteed analysis. Any commercial cat food meeting AAFCO standards must include taurine, but it is worth confirming for less well-known brands.
Avoid foods with excessive carbohydrate fillers as primary ingredients, cats have limited ability to digest and use plant-based carbohydrates compared to animal protein and fat. A guaranteed protein percentage of at least 30-35% (dry matter basis) is generally recommended for adult cats.
🩺 This guide provides general information based on AAFP and WSAVA published guidelines. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for individual dietary advice, especially for cats with health conditions like CKD, hyperthyroidism, or LUTD.