The amount a cat should eat daily depends primarily on its weight, age, activity level, and whether it is spayed or neutered.

General Guidelines for Daily Caloric Intake

• Adult cats generally require about 20 to 35 calories per pound of body weight per day.
• For example, a 10-pound adult cat typically needs around 200 to 350 calories daily depending on activity and other factors

Feeding Amounts by Cat Weight (Adult Cats)

Cat Weight| Calories per Day (Spayed/Neutered)| Calories per Day (Intact)| Calories per Day (Weight Loss)
---|---|---|---
5 lbs| 125-157 kcal| 175-183 kcal| 75-105 kcal
8-10 lbs| 200-260 kcal| 280-303 kcal| 150-173 kcal
12-15 lbs| 300-354 kcal| 420-413 kcal| 180-236 kcal
18-20 lbs| 450-440 kcal| 630-513 kcal| 270-293 kcal

These ranges reflect variations based on neuter status and weight management needs

Feeding Frequency and Portions

• Most adult cats do well with two meals per day.
• Kittens require more frequent feeding, about 3 to 4 meals daily , with higher caloric intake to support growth (up to 2-3 times adult intake)

• The total daily calories can be split between wet and dry food based on calorie content. For example, a 10-pound cat needing 250 kcal/day might get half from wet food and half from dry food

Important Considerations

• Treats should not exceed 10% of daily calorie intake.
• Activity level greatly influences calorie needs; less active cats require fewer calories.
• Obesity is a serious concern; feeding should be adjusted to maintain a healthy weight

For precise feeding amounts tailored to your cat’s specific needs, consulting a veterinarian is recommended. They can calculate calorie needs based on weight, body condition, age, and health status

. Summary:
A typical adult cat should eat about 20-35 calories per pound per day, split into two meals. For a 10-pound cat, this is roughly 200-350 calories daily. Kittens need more frequent meals and higher calories. Adjust portions based on activity, neuter status, and health, and keep treats minimal. Always consult your vet for personalized advice.