Feeding your cat

1. How many times a day should I feed my cat?
Most adult cats do well with two balanced meals a day, about 12 hours apart, which fits their natural hunting routine. Some cats prefer smaller meals more often, which is fine if you can manage it.

2. Is it better to feed cats at set times or free-feed?
Set meal times help you control portions, keep your cat at a healthy weight and spot changes in appetite quickly. Free-feeding often leads to overeating, especially with dry food.

3. How much should my cat eat daily?
Portion size depends on your cat’s age, weight and activity level. Always check the feeding guide on your food and adjust if your cat gains or loses weight.

4. Should kittens eat different food from adult cats?
Yes, kittens need more protein and energy than adults as they grow fast and burn lots of calories. Feed a high-quality kitten recipe until they’re fully grown.

5. How can I tell if my cat is overweight?
Run your hands over your cat’s sides, you should feel the ribs but not see them sticking out. If you’re unsure, your vet can check your cat’s weight and body condition.  A simple guide to weight can be found on the UK Pet Food website 

6. Can cats eat dog food in an emergency?
One small meal won’t harm them, but dog food doesn’t have the nutrients cats must have, like taurine. Always feed species-appropriate food for long-term health.

7. What ingredients should I avoid in cat food?
Avoid artificial colours, sweeteners, chemical preservatives and low-grade fillers. Choose food with clear, named meat sources.

8. How do I read a cat food label?
Look for the percentage of meat listed first, clear ingredients you recognise and a nutritional statement showing it’s ‘complete’. 

9. Is dry food enough for my cat?
Many cats live on dry food but they often don’t drink enough to balance its lack of moisture. Adding wet or raw meals can help keep kidneys healthy.

10. What are the benefits of wet food?
Wet food boosts hydration, supports the urinary system and can help fussy cats eat well. Many owners find it useful for portion control too.

11. What is raw feeding for cats?
Raw feeding means giving your cat fresh, uncooked meat, bones and organs, designed to match what wild cats eat. It aims to provide species-appropriate nutrition.

12. Are there risks to feeding raw food?
There’s a small risk if raw meat is mishandled or unbalanced. Buy from trusted suppliers, follow safe storage and clean preparation steps.

13. What are the possible benefits of a raw diet?
Owners often see smaller, firmer stools, better coat condition and cleaner teeth. Cats tend to enjoy fresh raw food too as it suits their instincts.

14. Can I make raw cat food at home?
It’s possible but risky if you don’t balance nutrients correctly. Most owners use ready-made raw meals from approved producers.

15. How do I handle raw food safely?
Keep raw food frozen until needed, defrost it in the fridge and clean bowls, surfaces and your hands thoroughly to prevent contamination.

16. Can kittens eat raw food?
Yes, kittens can thrive on balanced raw food if it’s fresh and appropriate for their growth stage. Introduce it slowly so they adjust well.

17. How do I switch my cat to a raw diet?
Change food gradually over a week or two, starting with small amounts mixed into their current food. Some cats need longer to adjust to the taste and texture.

18. What should I do if my cat refuses raw food?
Try a different protein, texture or gently warm the food to bring out natural aromas. Some cats prefer minced or chunked meat over whole cuts.

19. Should I mix raw and dry food?
Some owners feed dry and raw in separate meals rather than mixed in one bowl. This helps digestion and keeps bacteria risk low.

20. Where can I buy balanced raw cat food?
Choose DEFRA-registered brands like our Poppy’s Picnic raw cat range. Quality raw food should be complete, safe and clearly labelled.

21. Do indoor cats have different feeding needs?
Yes, indoor cats are often less active so they may need fewer calories. Watch portions closely and encourage play to keep weight healthy.

22. Should I give my cat treats?
Treats are fine in moderation, and choose natural, healthy ones when you can. Treats should never replace balanced meals.

23. How many treats are too many?
Keep treats under 10% of your cat’s daily calories to avoid weight gain.

24. Are homemade cat treats safe?
They can be if you use simple, cat-safe ingredients with no seasoning. Cooked meat or fish chunks are good options.

25. What human foods are toxic to cats?
Avoid chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, alcohol and caffeine. These can be dangerous, even in small amounts.

26. Can cats drink milk?
Many cats are lactose intolerant, so milk can upset their stomachs. Fresh water is always best.

27. Should my cat eat fish every day?
Fish is fine as an occasional treat but too much can upset nutrient balance. Choose varied proteins instead. Many cats don't actually like fish!

28. What protein is best for cats?
Cats thrive on high-quality meat like chicken, turkey or rabbit. Variety keeps them interested and supports balanced nutrition.

29. Should I feed my cat bones?
Never give cooked bones, as they can splinter. Chicken bones are not good either, for the same reason. Meaty beef, lamb or pork bones sized for cats can help dental health but should be fed with care. Most cat owners don't feed their cats bones and Tabby's Table raw food for cats contains ground bone which means they get the bone through their regular meals

30. What supplements might my cat need?
A complete diet usually covers all nutrients. Always check with your vet before adding extras.

Hydration questions

31. How much water should my cat drink daily?
A cat needs about 50ml per kg of body weight daily. Cats on raw or wet food often drink less because their food contains water.

32. Why won’t my cat drink water?
Cats have a naturally low thirst drive. Adding wet or raw food is a good way to boost hydration.

33. Do cats prefer running water?
Many do, as fresh running water feels safer to them. Try a fountain to encourage more drinking. Put you might find your cat drinking from a pond or a puddle - that's ok too

34. Should I buy a cat water fountain?
A fountain can help picky drinkers and keep water fresher. Place it away from food bowls for best results.

35. Can I add water to dry food?
Adding warm water makes dry food softer and adds moisture. Some cats prefer the texture this way. But many will not like it this way so test it and see

36. Does raw food help with hydration?
Yes, raw food is naturally high in moisture which supports kidney and bladder health.

Wellbeing and health

37. How do I know if my cat is healthy?
A shiny coat, clear eyes, steady weight and good appetite are all good signs. Any sudden change means a vet visit is wise.

38. How often should my cat see the vet?
Healthy adult cats should see the vet at least once a year. Older cats or those with health issues may need more checks.

39. What vaccinations does my cat need?
Most cats need vaccines for flu, enteritis and sometimes feline leukaemia. Your vet will advise based on lifestyle.

40. How do I prevent parasites?
Regular flea and worm treatments keep most parasites at bay. Indoor cats may need less frequent treatment but still benefit from routine checks.

41. How often should I deworm my cat?
Most cats need worming every 3 to 6 months. Kittens need it more often as they grow.

42. Should I use flea treatment year-round?
Yes, fleas can survive indoors all year. Keep treatments up to date to avoid infestations.

43. How do I check my cat’s teeth?
Lift your cat’s lips gently and look for redness, bad smells or tartar. Healthy gums are pink, not red or swollen.

44. What causes bad breath in cats?
Dental disease is the main cause. Regular checks and chewing fresh meat or raw bones can help.

45. Should I brush my cat’s teeth?
If they allow it, brushing is the best prevention for plaque. If not, dental treats or raw meaty bones can help too.

46. Does diet affect dental health?
Yes. Avoid foods with high carbohydrate content as the carbs turn to sugar which, just like with humans, has a bad effect on teeth

47. Does raw food help teeth stay clean?
Many owners find cats on raw have less plaque and fresher breath. Chewing meat and bone acts like a toothbrush.

48. How do I check my cat’s weight?
Weigh them at home if you can, or ask your vet. Watch for changes in shape around the waist and ribs.

49. Should I worry about hairballs?
Occasional hairballs are normal but frequent ones may mean too much shedding or a tummy issue. Regular brushing - if your cat will let you - can help

50. How do I help my cat pass hairballs?
Regular brushing and moisture-rich food help fur pass through easily. Some owners add gentle fibre if needed.

51. Should I groom my cat?
Yes, especially long-haired breeds who can’t manage all tangles alone. Grooming also helps you spot lumps or fleas early.

52. How often should I brush my cat?
Short-haired cats need brushing once a week. Long-haired cats may need daily brushing to prevent mats.

53. Does my cat need baths?
Most cats keep themselves clean. Only bathe your cat if they get into a mess they can’t lick off.

54. How do I clip my cat’s claws?
Use cat nail clippers and trim just the sharp tips. Take it slow, offer treats and stop if your cat gets stressed.

55. When should I worry about shedding?
Seasonal shedding is normal. Sudden hair loss or bald patches mean a vet visit is needed.

56. Why is my cat losing fur?
Stress, parasites or allergies could be the cause. A vet check can help find the reason.

57. Is my cat allergic to food?
Itchy skin, ear infections or tummy trouble can point to a food allergy. Try a gentle elimination diet with your vet’s help.

58. What are signs of a food allergy?
Look for scratching, bald spots, vomiting or soft stools. A change in diet can help manage this.

59. Can raw food help with allergies?
Many owners find raw feeding can help clear up some sensitivities, thanks to simple, fresh ingredients.

60. Is my cat stressed?
Hiding, hissing, overgrooming or litter tray accidents can be stress signals. Changes at home often trigger it. Are they getting outside enough? Being busy in their own way helps relax them

61. What are signs of anxiety?
Look for clingy behaviour, sudden mood swings or loss of appetite. Some cats become aggressive too. 

62. How do I help my cat feel calm?
Keep routines steady, add safe hiding spots and use calming diffusers if needed. Play helps too.

63. Should I get a second cat?
Some cats love company, others prefer being alone. If your cat is sociable, a friend may work well.

64. How do I introduce cats to each other?
Take it slow, swap scents first, then allow short meetings. Patience is key.

65. How do I introduce raw food to multiple cats?
Switch one at a time so you can watch who eats what. Feed them separately if needed.

Everyday care

66. How much sleep do cats need?
Cats sleep 12 to 16 hours a day on average, and older cats or kittens may sleep even more. Sleep keeps them healthy and restores energy.

67. Why does my cat wake me at night?
Cats are most active at dawn and dusk. Extra playtime before bed and a late meal can help settle them overnight.

68. How do I stop my cat from scratching furniture?
Offer scratching posts or mats in places your cat likes to scratch. Reward them when they use it and cover furniture with protectors if needed. Spray citrus smells too, which can put them off. Also, make sure they are getting enough time outside, which diverts their scratching tendencies to trees and fences

69. Should I declaw my cat?
Never. Declawing is painful and banned because it removes part of the toe. Nail trimming and scratching posts are kinder options.

70. What’s the best litter tray?
Choose one that’s roomy enough for your cat to turn around comfortably. Covered trays give privacy but some cats prefer open ones.

71. How many litter trays do I need?
The usual advice is one tray per cat plus one extra, placed in quiet, safe spots.

72. How often should I clean the litter tray?
Scoop daily and change the litter completely once or twice a week. Wash the tray with gentle soap to keep it fresh.

73. Why is my cat peeing outside the tray?
This might be medical or stress related. Always rule out urinary issues with a vet, then check the tray is clean and easy to reach. Old cats will also do this too so be patient with them

74. Why is my cat so vocal?
Some breeds are naturally chatty. More meowing can mean hunger, boredom or a medical problem, so notice any changes.

75. Should I let my cat outside?
Cats are happiest and healthiest being let outside. Of course it depends on your area, but you should always aim to live somewhere cats can go out wherever possible. If your cat has to stay indoors then make sure you have lots of places for it to climb and perches to look out of windows.

76. How do I keep an outdoor cat safe?
Keep vaccinations up to date, microchip them and use a quick-release collar with ID. Bring them in at night if you can.

77. How do I find a lost cat?
Check hiding spots nearby, call softly at night and shake their favourite treats. Post flyers and alert neighbours too. Local facebook whatsapp groups are extremely useful resources

78. Should I microchip my cat?
Yes, it’s the best way to reunite lost cats with their owners. Keep contact details up to date.

79. Should my cat wear a collar?
Most rescue centres no longer recommend cat collars. A breakaway collar with an ID tag helps people return your cat if they wander. Never use collars that don’t release if caught. 

80. Should I neuter my cat?
Yes, neutering prevents unwanted litters, reduces roaming and lowers some health risks. It helps keep local cat populations under control.

81. When should kittens be neutered?
Most vets recommend neutering at 4 to 6 months old. Some male kittens can be neutered younger if needed.

82. How long do cats live?
Indoor cats often live 12 to 20 years, sometimes longer. Outdoor cats may have shorter lifespans due to more risks.

83. What are signs of ageing?
Look for weight loss or gain, stiffness, changes in appetite or grooming. Older cats sleep more and may need softer food.

84. How do I care for a senior cat?
Provide comfy resting spots, gentle play and regular vet checks. Adjust their diet if needed for easier digestion.

85. Does diet change with age?
Older cats often benefit from smaller, more frequent meals. Some do well on minced raw or softer wet food that’s easy to chew.

86. Is raw food good for senior cats?
Many senior cats enjoy raw food if they can chew well. Soft minced meals are gentle on ageing teeth.

87. Can raw food help with weight management?
Balanced raw food can help maintain healthy weight as it’s high in protein and moisture. Portion control matters too.

88. Is raw food more expensive?
It can cost more than dry food but many owners find it’s good value for the health benefits. Buying in bulk helps manage costs.

89. How do I store raw cat food?
Keep it frozen until needed, defrost in the fridge and use it within the recommended time. Never refreeze thawed raw food.

90. What if my cat won’t eat raw food?
Stay patient and try different proteins or textures. Some cats prefer slightly warmed raw food to bring out the smell.

91. What are the signs of a healthy coat?
A shiny, smooth coat with no bald patches is a good sign. Dull fur or flaky skin could mean a dietary issue or parasites.

92. Should I worry if my cat vomits?
An occasional hairball is normal but regular vomiting needs a vet check. Food intolerance, parasites or illness could be the cause.

93. What’s the best way to travel with a cat?
Use a sturdy carrier and make sure it feels safe and comfy. Bring familiar bedding and never let your cat loose in a moving car.

94. Should I get pet insurance?
Pet insurance can help cover sudden vet bills and give you peace of mind. Check what’s included and compare plans.

95. What emergencies should I prepare for?
Know your nearest out-of-hours vet and keep an emergency fund if you can. Keep a simple first aid kit at home.

96. What should be in my cat first aid kit?
Basic bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers and your vet’s contact details are a good start. A digital thermometer is handy too.

97. How do I know when my cat is in pain?
Look for hiding, limping, growling, sudden aggression or eating less. Cats hide pain well, so trust your instincts and see your vet.

98. Should I change my cat’s diet when sick?
Always talk to your vet before changing food if your cat is unwell. They may need special food for recovery.

99. Where can I find trustworthy cat food advice?
Your vet, trusted raw food producers and reputable pet nutritionists are good sources. Cat charity websites have lots of good info too.  Be wary of myths online.

100. How can I learn more about raw feeding?
Visit our Raw Feeding Guide for tips on safe, balanced feeding. Always ask questions if you’re unsure.