Adult cats are obligate carnivores, so they should eat a complete and balanced cat food made mostly of animal protein, either wet, dry or a mix of both. They need nutrients found only in animal tissue, including taurine, and they should have constant access to fresh water.
What a Healthy Adult Cat Diet Looks Like
- High protein. Meat, poultry or fish should be the main ingredient.
- Moderate fat. Fat supplies energy and essential fatty acids.
- Few carbohydrates. Cats do not need much starch.
- Complete and balanced. Look for an AAFCO statement for adult maintenance on the label.
Wet vs. Dry
Wet food provides extra water, which supports the urinary tract, and often helps with weight control. Dry food is convenient and cheaper. Many owners feed both. See our comparison of wet pouch foods and Purina Cat Chow Naturals for examples.
How Much to Feed
Most adult cats need roughly 20 to 30 calories per pound of body weight per day, but this varies with age, activity and neutering. Use the package chart as a starting point and adjust to keep your cat at a healthy weight. Measure portions rather than leaving food out all day.
Treats and Extras
Keep treats to about 10 percent of daily calories. Avoid onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes, raisins, alcohol and raw dough. Milk upsets many cats’ stomachs. Cooked plain meat in small amounts is fine.
Special Needs
Cats with urinary, kidney, thyroid or allergy problems need diets chosen with a vet. For one example, see foods for cats with high calcium.
Bottom Line
Feed an adult cat a complete, meat-based food in measured portions, mix in wet food for water, and check with your vet before changing the diet for any health concern.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice. Ask your veterinarian about your cat’s diet.
