How Often Should Cats Eat? A Complete Feeding Schedule Guide

If you are a cat owner, you probably know the drill: it is 5:00 AM, and your furry friend is sitting on your chest, purring loudly (or pawing at your face) because they are convinced they have never been fed in their entire life.

But how often should you actually be filling that bowl?

Finding the right feeding schedule is crucial for your cat's health. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, while underfeeding can cause health issues. Plus, cats are creatures of habit—they love a routine.

In this guide, we will break down exactly how often to feed your cat based on their age, lifestyle, and food type.

Key Takeaways

Kittens (under 6 months): Need to eat 3–4 times a day to support rapid growth.
Adult Cats (1–7 years): Typically do best with 2 meals a day (morning and evening).
Senior Cats (7+ years): May need smaller, more frequent meals depending on health issues.
Consistency is King: Feeding at the same times every day helps reduce behavioral issues and anxiety.

Feeding by Age: The General Rules

Cats have different nutritional needs at different stages of life. Here is a quick breakdown.

1. Kittens (The "Eating Machines")

Age: 8 weeks to 6 months
Frequency: 3 to 4 meals per day

Kittens are burning a ton of energy growing, playing, and exploring. Their stomachs are small, so they can't eat a lot at once, but they need constant fuel.

Tip: Don't restrict calories for kittens unless advised by a vet. They need the energy!

2. Junior Cats & Adults

Age: 6 months to 7 years
Frequency: 2 meals per day

Around 6 months, you can start transitioning to a twice-daily schedule. By age 1, most cats are fully grown and settled into an adult metabolism.

Schedule Idea: Feed once before you go to work (e.g., 7:00 AM) and once when you get home (e.g., 6:00 PM). This mimics a natural hunting cycle—hunt, eat, groom, sleep.

3. Senior Cats

Age: 7+ years
Frequency: 2 meals per day (or more if needed)

Senior cats often stick to the adult schedule, but some may develop health issues like diabetes or kidney disease that require specific timing. If your older cat is losing weight, your vet might recommend more frequent, smaller meals to encourage eating.

Wet Food vs. Dry Food: Does It Matter?

Yes, the type of food can influence your schedule.

Dry Food (Kibble)

Dry food is convenient and doesn't spoil quickly.

The "Free Feeding" Debate: Some owners leave a bowl of dry food out all day ("free feeding").
The Verdict: We generally don't recommend free feeding for indoor cats. It makes it very easy for cats to overeat out of boredom, leading to obesity. Scheduled meals are better for monitoring their health.

Wet Food (Canned)

Wet food has high moisture content, which is great for kidney health.

The Rule: Wet food shouldn't sit out for more than 20–30 minutes. It can spoil and attract bacteria.
Strategy: If you feed a mix, try dry food in the morning (if you are rushing out) and wet food in the evening when you have time to pick up the plate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I feed my cat just once a day?

While some sources say once a day is okay for healthy adults, most veterinarians recommend twice a day. A stomach empty for 24 hours can become highly acidic, potentially leading to nausea (bilious vomiting syndrome). Two smaller meals are generally easier on their digestion.

My cat acts hungry all the time. What should I do?

First, check with your vet to rule out medical issues like hyperthyroidism or diabetes. If they are healthy, they might just be bored or seeking attention. Try:

Using a puzzle feeder to make mealtime last longer.
Playing with them for 10 minutes before feeding to mimic the "hunt."

What if I have multiple cats?

Feed them in separate areas if possible. This prevents the "food insecure" cat from gobbling their meal and then stealing the other's, and it lets the shy cat eat in peace.

Final Thoughts

There is no single "perfect" schedule, but consistency is the most important factor. Pick times that work for your lifestyle and stick to them. Your cat will appreciate the routine (and might even let you sleep past 5 AM... maybe).

Ready to learn more? Check out our guide on Indoor Pet Care for more tips on keeping your kitty happy.

Disclaimer: The content on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Every cat is unique. Always consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations for your pet.