5 Questions About Feeding Your Cat, Answered

Your cat may act like the ruler of the house, but when it comes to mealtime, you’re the one calling the shots. With so many choices — wet food or dry? scheduled meals or free feeding? — it’s easy to wonder if you’re making the best decisions for your feline family member.

To fuel a healthy and happy life for your cat, you need to fill their bowl with the right stuff. To help, we’re answering five common questions about cat nutrition — so you can keep your cat purring with satisfaction over every meal.

1. Can I Feed My Cat Different Brands of Food?

Yes, you can mix different brands of cat food! In fact, rotating high-quality wet cat food brands and flavors can help ensure your cat gets a well-rounded diet and can prevent sensitivities by introducing a variety of protein sources.

If you’re transitioning to a new food, switch gradually over 7–10 days to avoid digestive upset. Begin by mixing a small amount of the new food with the old and slowly increase the ratio.

2. Can I Free Feed My Cat?

Free feeding — leaving dry food out all day — might seem convenient, but it’s generally not the healthiest option. Cats thrive on set meal times, and grazing can lead to overeating, obesity, and digestive disruption.

Because free feeding requires kibble to prevent spoilage, it’s usually done with dry cat food, which may not provide the moisture cats need for proper hydration.

Instead of free feeding, aim for scheduled meals with natural wet food or raw food to ensure balanced, nutrient-rich nutrition.

3. Should I Feed My Cat Wet or Dry Food?

High-quality food is essential no matter the format, but natural wet cat food is typically the healthier choice because it provides critical moisture that supports urinary and kidney health.

Wet food is also protein-rich, lower in carbs, and more satiating. If you feed dry food, choose high-quality options like our natural dry cat food and be sure your cat has access to fresh water.

4. How Often Should I Feed My Cat?

Adult cats generally do best with two to three meals per day. Kittens need four to six meals because of their higher energy demands, while senior cats may benefit from several smaller meals.

If your schedule is busy, consider an automatic feeder to maintain consistent, portion-controlled meals.

5. Is a Raw Diet Good for Cats?

A balanced raw cat food diet can closely mimic a cat’s natural nutrition, offering high protein, essential nutrients, and natural moisture.

Raw feeding requires proper planning to ensure balance. You can also explore convenient raw-style options like freeze-dried cat food and air-dried cat food, which make prepping and portioning easier.

Read More: All About Raw Food for Dogs and Cats

The Bottom Line for Happy Kitty Tummies

Feeding your cat the right diet is one of the most important things you can do for their long-term health. Monitor your cat’s specific needs and adjust as necessary. If you’re thinking about switching foods, transition slowly and consult your veterinarian to ensure a balanced, nutritious plan.