How to Feed Your Cat the Right Way – The Lifesaving Carnivore’s Guide

How to Feed Your Cat: The Meat

Feeding your cat isn’t just about filling a bowl with kibble and calling it a day. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are designed to thrive on a diet primarily made of meat. But with so many options- raw, cooked, commercial, homemade – it can be confusing to know what’s best. Let’s break it all down and make sure your kitty is eating like the tiny predator they were born to be!

A Brief History: Feline Diets Through the Ages

Cats have been meat-eaters since their days in the wild, hunting small rodents and birds for sustenance. As domestication took place, humans began to provide food for their feline companions. Initially, this consisted of table scraps, which were often meat-based. Over time, commercial cat food became available, but the essence of a meat-based diet remained a constant for our feline friends.

The Raw Debate: Is Raw Food Safe for Cats?

Raw food diets have gained popularity among pet owners, but are they safe for cats? The answer is a cautious yes. Raw meat can provide essential nutrients like taurine that are vital for a cat’s health. However, it’s crucial to handle raw meat carefully to avoid bacterial contamination. Always consult your vet before making a significant change to your cat’s diet.

If you go raw, ensure cleanliness and supplements. If you go cooked, balance nutrients. Either way, make sure your cat’s diet is nutritionally complete!

Is Raw or Cooked Food Better for Cats?

When it comes to homemade cat food, many pet owners wonder whether raw or cooked food is the better option. The answer depends on your cat’s health, your comfort level with food preparation, and the nutritional balance of each diet.

Raw food retains more natural enzymes and nutrients that can be lost during cooking. However, raw meat carries a higher risk of bacterial contamination, such as Salmonella or E. coli, which can be harmful to both cats and humans.

On the other hand, cooked food eliminates bacteria and may be safer, especially for cats with weaker immune systems or senior cats. Cooking also makes some proteins easier to digest, but it can destroy essential nutrients like taurine, which must be supplemented.

Verdict

If you choose raw, ensure proper handling and storage. If you prefer cooked, supplement essential nutrients that might be lost in the process. Either way, balance and variety are key!

Beef: The Cat’s Meow of Meats

Beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and essential amino acids for cats. It’s also relatively low in fat compared to other meats, making it a healthy option. Beef liver, in particular, is rich in vitamin A, which is beneficial for your cat’s vision and immune system.

Home-Cooked Beef Hash Recipe for Cats

Note: This recipe is intended as a treat or supplementary meal. Ensure your cat’s primary diet is balanced and meets all nutritional requirements.

🐱 Ingredients

1️⃣ 1 cup lean ground beef
2️⃣ ¼ cup rice
3️⃣ ½ cup water
4️⃣ 1 teaspoon odorless coconut oil
5️⃣ ¼ cup sour cream

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the ground beef in a pan until browned.
2️⃣ Add the rice and coconut oil to the pan.
3️⃣ Pour in water and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes.
4️⃣ Let it cool before serving. Then, add sour cream for a creamy finish!

And yes, some cats will love this recipe, while others will turn up their whiskers. In my house, it’s a 50-50 success rate! 😹

🎉 Want More Homemade Treat Ideas?

If your cat loved these fishballs, they’ll go wild for these delicious DIY recipes:
🍖 Beefy Bites – A protein-packed snack your feline will adore.
🐔 Chicken Meowy Jello – A fun, wobbly treat for cats who love variety.
🐟 Tuna Cookies – Crunchy, fishy goodness for the ultimate cat-approved snack.

👉 Get all the homemade cat food recipes here!

How Much Should You Feed Your Cat?

Every cat is different, and the right portion size depends on age, weight, activity level, and metabolism.

A general guideline is:

• Kittens (under 6 months) → 3-4 small meals per day 🍼
• Adult cats (1-7 years) → 2 meals per day 🍗🍖
• Senior cats (7+ years) → Adjust portions based on activity and health needs 🛌

The average adult cat needs about 20 calories per pound of body weight per day. So, a 10-pound cat should eat around 200 calories daily. If feeding homemade food, use a kitchen scale to ensure proper portions and avoid overfeeding.

Pro Tip

Watch your cat’s weight and adjust portions as needed. If they start looking like a fluffy loaf with legs, it might be time to cut back on the treats! 😹

Common Mistakes When Feeding Homemade Cat Food

Switching to homemade meals can be great, but there are a few common mistakes pet owners make:

❌ Skipping Taurine: Leads to blindness & heart issues.
✔ Fix It: Always supplement taurine (or use raw heart meat, which is rich in it).

❌ Too Many Carbs: Can cause weight gain & digestive issues.
✔ Fix It: Keep carbs below 5% of total diet (pumpkin or sweet potato is okay in moderation).

❌ Lack of Variety: One protein = nutrient deficiencies.
✔ Fix It: Rotate between beef, turkey, fish, and lamb.

❌ Not Adding Calcium: Can cause brittle bones.
✔ Fix It: Use bone meal powder or crushed eggshells in homemade food.

Follow vet-approved recipes, use a supplement mix for balance, and offer protein variety like beef, turkey, and fish.

Best Supplements to Add to Homemade Cat Food

Even with carefully prepared meals, homemade cat food often lacks certain nutrients. To ensure a balanced diet, consider adding:

✔ Taurine → Essential for heart and eye health 🐾
✔ Calcium (Bone Meal or Eggshell Powder) → Supports bone strength 🦴
✔ Fish Oil (Omega-3s) → Keeps fur soft, reduces inflammation 🐟
✔ B Vitamins → Supports energy and digestion 💪
✔ Probiotics → Aids gut health and prevents diarrhea 🦠

Bonus Tip

If making food at home seems overwhelming, commercial raw or cooked food brands offer balanced, pre-made options!

Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Cat Food

So, how to feed your cat?

Cats are natural meat-eaters, and providing them with a diet rich in high-quality meat can contribute to their overall well-being. Whether you choose raw or cooked meat, or a delicious beef hash, make sure to consult your vet and pay attention to portion sizes. Your cat will thank you – with purrs, of course!

I’d Love to Hear from You!

Have you tried making homemade cat food? What’s your cat’s favorite recipe? Share your experiences or ask questions on my Facebook page – I’d love to hear from you! 🐾✨

🐾 Understanding Whisker Fatigue 🐾 Ever noticed your cat pawing food out of their bowl or hesitating to eat? They might be experiencing whisker fatigue. Cats’ whiskers are highly sensitive, and constant contact with deep bowls can cause discomfort. Switching to shallow, wide dishes can make mealtime more enjoyable for your feline friend.

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet must primarily consist of meat to meet their nutritional needs. This recipe is intended as a complementary meal or treat, not a complete and balanced feed. To ensure your cat gets all the essential nutrients, consider adding supplements specifically designed for feline diets. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods, especially if your cat has allergies, health conditions, or special dietary requirements. A happy, healthy cat starts with the right nutrition!

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Updated on March 3, 2025, to include the latest recommendations on homemade cat food.