Learning Cat

Am I Accidentally Starving My Cat? A Recovering Food-Pusher’s Guide to Guilt-Free Feeding.

by · July 29, 2024

Ever stare at your cat, happily grooming after a meal, and wonder… “Did I give you enough?” Yep, been there, done that, worried myself into a tizzy.

See, I grew up with a “full bowl” philosophy. Cats ate ’til they were stuffed, no harm, no foul. They lucked out and stayed trim.

Fast forward to my two rescue babies – a hefty 17-pound tabby (all muscle, I swear!) and a petite 5-pound calico. These guys? Food. Motivated. To the max. Especially Mr. Tabby, who’d eat himself sick if given the chance.

This whole situation turned me into a nervous feeder, constantly second-guessing myself. Am I accidentally starving my cats?

Let’s break down this feeding frenzy and find some peace of mind, shall we?

Why Are My Cats Obsessed With Food?

First things first, let’s address the elephant (or should I say, “hungry hippo”) in the room. Why the insatiable appetite?

  • Past Experiences: Remember those rescue stories? Food scarcity leaves a mark. Imagine going from “where’s my next meal?” to a constant supply. It’s a recipe for overeating.
  • Metabolism and Breed: Just like us, some cats are naturally prone to packing on the pounds. Age, breed, and activity levels all play a role.
  • Plain Old Pickiness: Let’s be honest, some cats are just picky eaters. If your finicky feline isn’t getting the nutrients they need, they might overcompensate at mealtime.

The Dangers of Overfeeding (and Underfeeding) Your Cat

Here’s the thing, I love spoiling my cats. But when it comes to food, it’s a fine line between love and, well, a chubby kitty.

Overfeeding:

  • Obesity: This one’s a no-brainer. Extra weight puts stress on their joints, increases the risk of diabetes, and can even shorten their lifespan.
  • Urinary Tract Issues: Overweight cats are more prone to bladder stones and infections, especially males.
  • Vomiting and Diarrhea: Remember my tabby’s “eat ’til you puke” strategy? Yeah, not fun for anyone involved.

Underfeeding:

  • Malnutrition: Sounds obvious, right? But it’s not always about the quantity of food, but the quality. Make sure your cat’s getting all the essential nutrients they need.
  • Muscle Loss: Especially important for older cats. Adequate protein is crucial to maintain muscle mass and prevent weakness.
  • Lethargy and Weakness: Ever felt hangry? Cats can too! Not enough calories can lead to low energy and even health problems.

So, How Much Should I Feed My Cat?

Here’s where things get tricky. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

  • Read the Label! Start with the feeding guide on your cat food bag. It’s a good starting point, but…
  • Factor in Their Lifestyle: A super active cat needs more calories than a cuddle bug. Adjust accordingly.
  • Talk to Your Vet: This is non-negotiable, folks. Your vet can assess your cat’s ideal weight and help you create a personalized feeding plan.

My Feeding Routine: Wet Food, Portion Control, and a Tiny Bit of Guilt

Let’s talk specifics. My two are on a wet food diet, and here’s how we roll:

  1. Measured Meals: Each cat gets one 6oz can of wet food per day, split into two meals. It’s about 800 calories total, which seems to be working for them.
  2. Calico Cleans Up: My little calico is a grazer. She eats about half to three-quarters of her portion, leaving the rest for…
  3. Tabby the Vacuum: He swoops in and finishes it off. It seems to satisfy his hunger without going overboard (most of the time).
  4. Treat Time: Of course, no cat’s life is complete without a few treats. We keep it to a minimum – a few small kibbles for training and the occasional catnip party.

Am I still tempted to give them seconds when they stare at me with those big, pleading eyes? Absolutely. But I remind myself that I’m doing what’s best for their health and well-being.

Signs Your Cat Might Need a Diet Adjustment

Remember, every cat is unique. What works for my dynamic duo might not work for yours. Here are some signs to watch for:

Overfeeding:

  • Weight Gain: This one’s obvious. If your cat starts packing on the pounds, it’s time to reassess.
  • Refusing Food: It might seem counterintuitive, but a cat who’s constantly full might start refusing meals.
  • Increased Begging: If your cat’s constantly meowing for food, even after a meal, it could be a sign they’re used to getting more.

Underfeeding:

  • Weight Loss: Just like weight gain, noticeable weight loss warrants a vet visit.
  • Lethargy and Weakness: If your cat’s usually playful but suddenly seems sluggish, it could be a sign they’re not getting enough energy.
  • Changes in Coat or Skin: A dull coat or dry, flaky skin can be a sign of nutritional deficiencies.

Products We Love (Because Who Doesn’t Love a Good Recommendation?)

Okay, here’s where I confess: I’m a bit of a cat food snob. I want what’s best for my fur babies, which means high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition.

Wet Food:

  • Wellness Complete Health Pate: This is our go-to. It’s grain-free, packed with protein, and my cats go bonkers for it.
  • Blue Buffalo Wilderness: Another great option, especially if you’re looking for a high-protein diet for your active feline.

Treats:

  • PureBites Freeze-Dried Treats: These are a guilt-free indulgence. Single-ingredient treats that are healthy and delicious.
  • Inaba Churu Cat Treats: These creamy, lickable treats are a hit in our house. Plus, they’re great for hiding medication!

Remember: Always check with your vet before making any major changes to your cat’s diet.

The Bottom Line: Listen to Your Cat (and Your Vet)

Feeding your cat shouldn’t be a source of stress. By understanding your cat’s unique needs, monitoring their weight, and working with your vet, you can find a feeding routine that keeps them happy, healthy, and purring with contentment.

And who knows, maybe you’ll even convert a recovering food-pusher like me along the way.

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