Wondering how to feed your cat the right way? This guide covers everything from raw vs. cooked diets, why beef is a feline superfood, to the best supplements for balanced nutrition. Learn how to avoid the most common mistakes in homemade cat food, discover an easy beef hash recipe, and get expert tips on feeding your obligate carnivore the healthy way—complete with a paw-sitive nod to whisker-friendly bowls!
Table of Contents
How to Feed Your Cat: The Meat
How to feed your cat properly 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 so you can make the best choice and ensure your kitty is eating like the tiny predator they were born to be!
If you’re new to homemade cat food, check out our guide on 10 Simple Homemade Cat Food Recipes for inspiration!
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.
Raw Cat Food: Healthy or Hazardous?
How to feed your cat a raw diet is a question many pet owners ask, as raw food diets have gained popularity. 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.
| Feature | Raw Diet | Cooked Diet |
|---|---|---|
| Nutrient Retention | ✅ Higher (but risk of bacteria) | ⚠️ Lower (requires supplementation) |
| Safety | ⚠️ Bacteria risk (handle with care) | ✅ Kills bacteria (safer for immune-compromised cats) |
| Digestibility | ✅ More natural enzymes | ⚠️ Cooking alters proteins |
| Best For | Healthy adult cats | Senior cats, sensitive stomachs |
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!
Raw vs. Cooked: What’s Best for Your Cat?
How to feed your cat the right way is a common concern among pet owners, especially when deciding between raw and cooked food. The best choice 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, how to feed your cat properly comes down to balance, variety, and ensuring their nutritional needs are met!
Why Beef is a Superfood for Cats
How to feed your cat a balanced diet starts with choosing the right protein source, and beef is an excellent option. It’s packed with protein, iron, and essential amino acids that support your cat’s overall health. Plus, beef is relatively low in fat compared to other meats, making it a healthy choice. Beef liver, in particular, is rich in vitamin A, which benefits 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
1. 1 cup lean ground beef
2. ¼ cup rice
3. ½ cup water
4. 1 teaspoon odorless coconut oil
5. ¼ cup sour cream
Instructions
1. Cook the ground beef in a pan until browned.
2. Add the rice and coconut oil to the pan.
3. Pour in water and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes.
4. 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 Cat Food 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.
Want more homemade food for cats ideas? Check out list of ten simple homemade cat food recipes here and stay tuned for upcoming posts!
How Much Should You Feed Your Cat?
How to feed your cat properly depends on their age, weight, activity level, and metabolism. Every cat is different, so portion sizes should be adjusted to meet their specific needs.
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!
5 Big Mistakes Cat Owners Make with Homemade Food
How to feed your cat the right way can be tricky, especially when transitioning to homemade meals. While it’s a great option, many pet owners make these common mistakes:
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.
Pro Tip
To make sure you’re feeding your cat right, always 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
How to feed your cat a well-balanced diet is crucial, especially when preparing homemade meals. 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
Pro 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
Is homemade cat food better than store-bought food?
It depends! Homemade cat food can be healthier and fresher since you control the ingredients and avoid fillers. However, store-bought cat food is formulated to be nutritionally complete, while homemade food requires proper supplements like taurine and calcium. Always consult your vet before switching to homemade meals!
Can I feed my cat raw meat safely?
Yes, but with caution. Raw meat contains natural enzymes and nutrients but also carries bacteria risks like Salmonella or E. coli. To feed raw safely:
Use fresh, high-quality meat
Handle & store meat properly
Supplement with taurine and calcium
Consult your vet before switching to a raw diet
How can I make sure homemade cat food is balanced?
The key is variety and supplements. Cats need:
High-protein meats (beef, chicken, turkey)
Essential amino acids (Taurine is a must!)
Healthy fats (Fish oil, Omega-3s)
Calcium source (Crushed eggshells or bone meal)
Minimal carbohydrates (Avoid grains & starches)
If in doubt, use a vet-approved recipe or a commercial supplement mix to balance nutrients.
So, how to feed your cat?
How to feed your cat the right way is key to their overall health. Cats are natural meat-eaters, and providing them with a diet rich in high-quality meat can contribute to their well-being. Whether you choose raw or cooked meat, or a delicious beef hash, always consult your vet and pay attention to portion sizes. Your cat will thank you – with purrs, of course!
What’s your experience with homemade cat food?
Tried this recipe? Let me know if your cat gave it two paws up – or a dramatic head turn of disapproval! 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. How to feed your cat properly is essential for their health. 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!
Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer
Please note that links from Cats-Magazine.Com to Amazon.Com are affiliate links. This means that if you click on the link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support our work and allows us to continue providing valuable content. Thank you for your support!
Discover more from Cats Magazine
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
