Basic cat feeding guide
Every cat is different, so while this guide covers general tips, it’s always best to check with your vet—especially if your cat has health issues or special dietary needs.
Here’s what a healthy diet for most cats looks like:
- Choose a high-quality commercial cat food that says it’s “complete and balanced” on the label. This means it has all the nutrients your cat needs. Look for products that meet the Australian Standard AS5812, or international ones like AAFCO or FEDIAF.
- A mix of wet and dry food is ideal. Wet food helps with hydration, which supports urinary tract health.
- Never feed your cat dog or puppy food – it doesn’t contain enough taurine, an essential nutrient that cats can only get from their food.
How much and how often?
- How much to feed depends on your cat’s age, size, and activity level. Your vet can help you figure this out and keep an eye on their weight.
- Most cats prefer multiple small meals throughout the day and night – just like how they’d eat in the wild. Feeding your cat 4 to 5 small meals daily is a good goal.
- Make mealtimes fun! Puzzle feeders or hiding food around the house keeps things interesting and encourages activity.
Make sure that clean fresh drinking water is always available, but skip the milk as this can cause tummy upsets.
Treats and other foods
Treats are fine occasionally, but they shouldn’t replace proper meals. Here are a few options for the occasional snack:
- Cooked chicken (no bones or seasoning)
- Tinned fish like tuna or salmon in spring water (watch for bones)
Avoid raw meat and bones unless you're following strict food safety practices. They can carry harmful bacteria or cause injuries. If you do offer raw items:
- Make sure it’s human-grade
- Avoid pet mince, sausages, and processed meats (these often contain harmful preservatives)
- Never give cooked bones, as they can splinter and cause serious harm
Some cats may nibble on grass or small amounts of finely chopped veggies, but don’t expect them to thrive on plants – remember, they’re true carnivores!
Foods to avoid
Some human foods are dangerous (and even deadly) to cats.
Never feed your cat:
Avoid the following (note this is not a complete list):
- Alcohol, coffee, chocolate
- Onions, garlic, chives
- Grapes, raisins, sultanas, currants
- Nuts (including macadamia nuts)
- Bread dough or yeast dough
- Cooked bones, corncobs, mushrooms
- Fatty leftovers, salty foods
- Fruit stones, pits or seeds (like mango or avocado stones or apple seeds)
- Tomatoes or mushrooms
Also keep them away from:
- Compost or mouldy food
- Absorbent pads from meat trays
- String and roast meat wrappings
Source: rspca.org.au
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