Food guide
What to feed adult cats
Cats are strict carnivores, so a complete cat food with adequate animal protein is essential. Neutered cats gain weight easily, which makes portion control the main job.
Work out how much to feedWhat to look for
- A pack statement that the food is complete and balanced for adult maintenance (or all life stages).
- Portions based on daily calories. Neutered indoor cats often need noticeably fewer calories than expected.
- Water is important: wet food, water fountains and multiple bowls can encourage drinking.
- Consistent meal routine, with any changes made gradually.
Common mistakes
- Gradual weight gain, the most common feeding problem in adult cats.
- Straining to urinate, blood in urine or frequent litter box visits: treat as urgent and see a vet.
- Skipping meals for more than a day. Cats can develop serious liver problems if they stop eating.
Ask your vet first if
- Any diagnosed condition (kidney, heart, diabetes, allergies, pancreatitis, urinary problems): these need a vet-chosen diet, not a generic pick.
- Sudden appetite loss, vomiting, diarrhoea or weight change.
How we will pick specific foods
We aren't publishing product picks yet. Before we list any food, it has to meet each of these, checked against the manufacturer's own label:
- Complete for the life stage. The pack carries an adequacy statement (AAFCO or FEDIAF) for the stage the page is about.
- Named animal protein first. The first ingredient is a named animal protein, with protein and fat percentages listed.
- Maker transparency. The maker publishes recall history and says who formulates the diet, ideally a qualified veterinary nutritionist.
- Real availability and price. Sold in India, with price per 1,000 kcal so packs can be compared fairly.
Criteria are based on WSAVA's public guidance on choosing a pet food. Rankings are our editorial judgement and we don't accept payment to place a food.
Other guides
General information only, not veterinary advice. Feeding needs vary between individual animals.