Cat Feeding Routines: 6 Best Practices

Welcome, cat lovers! Today, I am excited to give you an exclusive look into the Cats With Jazz Crew’s daily feeding routine. As a passionate cat owner, foster parent for cats, rescue volunteer, and proud operator Cats With Jazz, I understand the importance of an excellent cat feeding routine. Join me as we explore the key components that make our feeding routine a purr-fect recipe for optimal health and happiness.

Cat Feeding Routine

At Cats With Jazz, I prioritise the well-being of cats in my care, and this begins with a carefully planned feeding schedule. Let’s dive into the details of our routine:

1. Cat Feeding Schedules

Consistency is the cornerstone of a healthy feeding schedule. The Crew is provided five evenly distributed meals over a 12-hour period, from 8am to 8pm. This approach ensures their energy levels are maintained throughout the day while preventing overeating in short periods. Feeding several small, frequent meals throughout the day also mimics a routine that would be found in the “wild,” and promotes a healthier lifestyle. Each feeding session is accompanied by plenty of fresh water, as hydration is equally important for their overall health.

2. Portion Control for Cats

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for our cats’ overall well-being. To achieve this, I meticulously practice portion control. By using measuring cups, spoons, or a reliable kitchen scale, I carefully measure their food to provide them with the appropriate amount based on their individual weights and needs. It is important to adhere to feeding guidelines for cats and recommended serving sizes, especially when providing supplements to your cat.

3. Balanced Diets for Cats

I am committed to providing my cats with a balanced diet that includes top-quality nutrition as a foundation. I prioritize cat food brands that use natural ingredients, are free of artificial additives, and meet the nutritional requirements outlined by veterinarians. To meet my cats’ specific needs, I supplement their diet with carefully selected supplements, ensuring they receive a well-rounded and balanced nutrition plan. Additionally, I occasionally incorporate homemade meals consisting of lean meats (e.g., chicken or turkey), organ meats (e.g., chicken hearts or beef liver), and steamed vegetables, to introduce variety and nutritional value.
→ Click here for the Crew’s top 5 probiotic and prebiotic supplements.

4. Water Access

Hydration plays a vital role in ensuring the well-being of our feline friends. To guarantee their hydration, I ensure a constant supply of clean and fresh water. To achieve this, I provide multiple water sources throughout my home, including two water fountains and two water bowls—one for every room. It is important to maintain cleanliness to prevent bacteria growth and preserve water freshness. As part of my daily routine, I diligently wash the cats’ fountains and bowls, and I make sure to provide them with clean, fresh water every morning and evening.

5. Cleanliness in Cat Feeding

Maintaining a clean feeding area is essential for the health of our cats. I make it a priority to thoroughly wash their food bowls, utensils, and placemats after each feeding session to prevent bacterial growth and ensure proper hygiene. By keeping the feeding area tidy, I create a welcoming environment that promotes healthy eating habits.

6. Placement

Keeping eating areas and “hydration stations” separate will encourage cats to have distinct spaces for their meals and water consumption. Cats have instinctual behaviors that make them more comfortable when their food and water sources are not located right next to each other. By placing their food and water bowls in different areas of your home, you can help create a sense of separation and encourage them to engage in their natural feeding behaviors.

When choosing the placement of your cat’s eating and drinking areas, consider the following:

• Quiet and Calm: Find a quiet and calm area of your home where your cat can eat without distractions or disturbances. This will allow them to focus on their food and help prevent any potential stress that may arise from being in a busy or noisy environment.
• Distinct Spaces: If you have multiple cats in your home, it’s important to have separate feeding areas to discourage food aggression and prevent cats from overeating due to greediness. Providing each cat with their own designated feeding space creates a sense of personal territory and helps maintain a peaceful mealtime environment. This also ensures that each cat can eat at their own pace and enjoy their meals without feeling threatened or rushed by other cats. By promoting individual feeding areas, you can foster harmony among your feline companions and support healthy eating habits.
• Separate from Litter Box: Avoid placing your cat’s food and water bowls near their litter box. Cats have natural instincts to keep their food and elimination areas separate, and having them close together could cause discomfort and lead to stress-related issues.
• Easy Access: Ensure that the feeding area is easily accessible for your cat. Avoid placing their bowls in areas that are difficult to reach or navigate, especially for older cats or those with mobility issues. Consider their comfort and safety when choosing the location.
• Elevated Cat Feeding Areas: Some cats prefer elevated feeding areas. You can provide them with raised feeding bowls or place their bowls on a sturdy elevated surface to accommodate their preference. This can also help promote better digestion by reducing the strain on their necks and backs while eating.
• Observation and Adjustment: Each cat has their own preferences. Observe your cat’s behavior and adjust the placement of their eating and drinking areas if needed. Pay attention to their comfort and make any necessary changes to ensure they feel at ease during mealtime.

Crafting a wholesome feeding routine for your beloved cats is a labor of love. By implementing a consistent schedule, practicing portion control, offering a balanced diet, ensuring water access, maintaining cleanliness, and thoughtfully placing their feeding area, you can contribute to their overall health and happiness. Observing your cat’s individual behavior and needs will help you fine-tune their feeding routine for optimal results.

I appreciate your dedication to providing the best for your feline companions. Remember, each cat is unique, so do not hesitate to consult with your veterinarian for personalized guidance. Let’s embark on this journey together, ensuring our cats enjoy a life filled with love, health, and happiness.

I hope this blog post has been informative and inspiring for all the cat lovers out there. If you have any questions or additional tips to share, feel free to leave a comment below. Until next time, keep nourishing your feline friends with care and affection!

[Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is based on my personal experiences and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Consult with a veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations for your cat.] For more blog content, click here.