Cat Nutrition FAQs: Feeding, Hydration & Diet Questions
Expert answers to common cat nutrition questions — hydration needs, wet vs dry food, feeding schedules, and safe foods. Based on AAFP and NRC feline guidelines.
Last updated: July 2026. Sources: AAFCO, AAHA, WSAVA, AAFP, ASPCA
This page aggregates 7 frequently asked questions from across our guides and calculators.
Cat Hydration Calculator
Go to Cat Hydration Calculator →How much water does a cat need per day?
Cats need approximately 50ml of water per kilogram of body weight per day. A 4.5kg (10 lb) cat needs about 225ml of water daily. This includes water from food — wet food is ~80% water, dry food is ~10% food. Cats on dry-food-only diets need to drink significantly more.
Source: Cat Hydration Calculator
How do I know if my cat is dehydrated?
Signs include lethargy, dry gums, loss of skin elasticity (gently pinch the scruff — slow return indicates dehydration), sunken eyes, and decreased urination. Cats on dry-food-only diets are at highest risk because they have a naturally low thirst drive inherited from desert ancestors.
Source: Cat Hydration Calculator
Why does my cat not drink enough water?
Cats evolved from desert wildcats and have a naturally low thirst drive — they are biologically programmed to get most water from prey. A mouse is ~70% water, so cats never needed to drink frequently. Modern dry kibble at 10% moisture creates chronic low-grade dehydration. Solutions: switch to wet food, use a cat water fountain, place multiple water bowls around the house.
Source: Cat Hydration Calculator
Wet vs Dry Food for Cats
Go to Wet vs Dry Food for Cats →Is wet food better for cats?
Wet food provides critical hydration (75-80% moisture) that supports kidney and urinary tract health. Most cats on wet food have lower rates of FLUTD (feline lower urinary tract disease) and chronic kidney disease. However, dry food is more convenient and can be left out for grazing. A combination approach is often ideal.
Source: Wet vs Dry Food for Cats
Should I free feed my cat?
Veterinary nutritionists generally advise against free feeding for most indoor cats. 60% of indoor cats are overweight, and free feeding is the #1 contributor. Best practice is scheduled meals (2-3 times per day) with measured portions. Puzzle feeders can simulate natural grazing while preventing overeating.
Source: Wet vs Dry Food for Cats
Cat BCS & Weight Tracker
Go to Cat BCS & Weight Tracker →How do I tell if my cat is overweight?
Use the Body Condition Score (BCS) 1-9 scale. Feel your cat's ribs — you should feel them with slight fat cover. Look from above — there should be a visible waist behind the ribs. Look from the side — there should be an abdominal tuck. About 60% of indoor cats are overweight (BCS 6+).
Source: Cat BCS & Weight Tracker
How fast should my overweight cat lose weight?
Cats should lose weight very slowly — 0.5-2% of body weight per week is the safe maximum. Rapid weight loss (>2% per week) can trigger hepatic lipidosis, a life-threatening condition where fat overwhelms the liver. For a 6kg cat that should weigh 5kg, this means 2-5 months to reach the target safely.
Source: Cat BCS & Weight Tracker
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References & Data Sources
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