“Cats are natural hunters, and feeding small, frequent meals can better reflect their normal eating behaviour.”
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Feeding your cat a healthy diet will not only ensure their nutritional needs are met, but will also support their ongoing development. But knowing what cats can eat isn’t always straightforward. You may be surprised at the foods that are actually toxic to cats!
Here are some things to keep in mind when considering your cat’s diet and health.
What cats can eat
A high-quality commercial cat food will provide your cat with all of the nutrients they need for a healthy diet.
However, if you choose to prepare your cat’s food yourself, there are a few things you need to know about what cats can eat.
Cats are meat eaters. They need protein-rich foods to meet their nutritional needs. White meat like chicken or turkey, fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna or whitefish or even red meat are all good options.
Raw meat bones can also be good for your cat’s diet but be sure to check with your vet if that is suitable for your particular cat. Some older cats or those with dental disease may have difficulty chewing raw bones.
Whilst the bulk of your cat’s diet will be protein-rich foods, you can also give them a small amount of finely-cut vegetable matter and also carbohydrates.
Cats are natural snackers
Cats are hunters. In the wild, they hunt and eat frequent small meals throughout the day and night.
Rather than feeding your cat one or two large meals a day, if you can give them small amounts of food four or five times a day, this will replicate their natural eating habits. The ‘snack’ style of eating actually helps cats to maintain greater urinary tract health. Be careful with the amount of food you give your cat at each meal so you don’t overfeed them.
It’s not always possible to feed your cat that frequently. And in fact, cats enjoy ‘hunting’ for their food… it’s in their nature. Puzzle feeders are a good option to not only encourage exercise and prevent obesity, but they also engage them in the hunt for their food.
Healthy treats for your cat
You can certainly include treats as part of a healthy diet for your cat… but be careful which treats you choose, and how many of them you give your cat. Save treats as reward for good behaviour or to teach your cat new tricks.
The treats you feed your cat should be 100% meat based… and make up no more than 10% of the total calories you are feeding them each day.
We recommend using Vet’s Best Rewards Lamb Liver Treats, made of 100% dried sheep liver, with no additives or preservatives.
What cats can’t eat
No list of what cats can eat would be complete without mentioning the foods and plants that are toxic to cats. Whilst we can’t provide an exhaustive list here, if you are concerned about what you can or can’t feed your cat, we are always available for mobile vet appointments in the comfort of your own home where we can discuss your cat’s diet or any other concerns you have.
Common toxic food and plants include:
- Alcohol, coffee and caffeine products
- Grapes, raisins, sultanas and currants
- Onions, onion powder and garlic
- Chocolate
- Avocado, tomatoes and mushrooms
- Cooked bones
- Small pieces of raw bone
- Fatty trimmings/fatty foods
- Aloe Vera
- Bird of Paradise
- Cyclamen
- Hyacinth
- Hydrangea
- Daffodil
- Lilies
You should avoid these plants or foods in places where your cat can easily access them. If they do ingest one of these toxic items, contact your vet immediately for advice.
Keeping your cat healthy for life
Knowing what cats can eat, and feeding your cat a diet based on that, will keep your cat healthy. And a well-fed cat is a happy cat!
Cats can get upset stomachs from time to time. If you notice recurring signs like vomiting, gas, or diarrhoea, it’s best to get professional advice from your vet. Your cat could have a sensitive stomach or be experiencing an allergic reaction.
Contact us to book an appointment for a quality, comprehensive and personalised veterinary consultation in the comfort of your own home.
“A balanced, protein-rich diet plays an important role in maintaining your cat’s long-term health.”
Key Takeaways
- Cats require a protein-rich diet
Cats are natural meat eaters and rely on high-quality protein sources to meet their nutritional needs. - Small, frequent meals better match natural behaviour
Feeding smaller portions throughout the day can help reflect natural hunting patterns and support urinary health. - Treats should be limited and meat-based
Treats should make up no more than 10% of daily intake and be based on simple, meat-based ingredients. - Some common foods and plants are toxic to cats
Items such as chocolate, onions, grapes and certain household plants should always be kept out of reach.
In-Home Services
In-home care forms the foundation of how we treat and manage your pet’s health. Most conditions can be assessed, treated, and monitored in a familiar environment where pets are calmer and easier to handle. Available to residents of Sydney’s inner city, Inner West, Eastern Suburbs and the Lower North Shore.
Testimonials
Debby Ross
First visit from Ari and Ellie and it went beyond all expectations. They were so genuinely interested in my two cats. Of course I couldn’t stop talking about them but they clearly were not bored. Did excellent health checks and vaccinations – was an absolute pleasure and I would totally recommend them to anybody. So fabulous having no stress of lugging…
Daniel Birchall
Elle’s exceptionally professional, warm, and helpful phone manner, together with Dr Ari’s prompt arrival, gentle approach with Hudson, and clear, thorough medical explanations and recommendations, immediately put my mind at ease. The high level of care and professionalism demonstrated confirmed that contacting VETaround was the right decision.
Amanda Yeates
Ari is the best vet ever. His home visits are incredible. Such a great service to not have to put your beloved pets in the stressful situation of a car. Or around sick pets in a waiting area. My cats LOVE HIM. Ollie my male cat NEVER comes out of hiding when visitors come over. With Ari, he not only came out, let him weigh him, have his check up done…
Charmaine Caffrey
I was very pleased with the ladies from VETaround Mobile vet. Professional, polite and very knowledgeable. Certainly eased my mind about my cat 🐈 would recommend them to anyone needing good veterinary care for their pet. We all know just how important our four legged friends are!
Frequently Asked Questions
What foods can cats safely eat as part of a balanced diet?
Cats require a diet primarily made up of protein-rich foods such as chicken, turkey, fish, and red meat. High-quality commercial cat food is designed to meet these nutritional needs. Small amounts of vegetables and carbohydrates can also be included where appropriate.
How often should I feed my cat each day?
Cats naturally prefer to eat small meals throughout the day rather than one or two large servings. Feeding four to five smaller portions can better reflect their natural behaviour. If this is not practical, using puzzle feeders can help support similar patterns.
Are raw bones safe for cats to eat?
Raw meat bones can be included in some cats’ diets, but suitability depends on the individual animal. Older cats or those with dental issues may have difficulty chewing them. It is best to check with your vet before introducing bones.
What treats are suitable for cats and how much should they have?
Treats should be 100% meat-based and given in moderation. They should make up no more than 10% of your cat’s daily calorie intake. Treats are best used occasionally, such as for training or rewarding behaviour.
What common foods are toxic to cats?
Foods such as chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes and fatty scraps can be harmful to cats. Certain plants, including lilies and aloe vera, are also toxic. If ingestion occurs, veterinary advice should be sought promptly.
When should I be concerned about my cat’s digestion or diet?
Occasional stomach upset can happen, but repeated vomiting, diarrhoea or gas should be assessed. These signs may indicate a sensitivity or underlying issue. A vet can review your cat’s diet and overall health during a consultation.