Best Feeding Schedule for Indoor Cats
Indoor cats tend to lead a life of luxury – napping in sunbeams, birdwatching from windowsills and snacking when it suits them. But while their lifestyle may seem sedate, serving up their meals on a consistent schedule is essential to keeping them feeling their best. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best feeding schedules for indoor cats to help support healthy weight, prevent boredom and tailor meals to your cat’s unique routine.
Why Indoor Cats Need A Consistent Feeding Schedule
Unlike their outdoor counterparts, indoor cats often get less physical activity and have fewer foraging opportunities, so they rely more on us for both food and stimulation. A structured feeding schedule helps:
- Prevent overeating and support weight management
- Establish healthy mealtime habits and routines
- Avoid boredom and destructive behaviours
- Track appetite changes that could signal health issues
At Petdirect, We Get Pet means we understand how different every cat can be. That’s why we’ve put together feeding tips suited to your indoor feline’s lifestyle, age and preferences.
How Often Should You Feed Your Indoor Cat?
The ideal feeding schedule depends on your cat’s age, metabolism, health and the type of food you serve. Here’s a general rule of paw:
- Kittens (under 6 months): 3–4 meals per day
- Adult Cats (1–7 years): 2 meals per day, ideally 12 hours apart
- Senior Cats (7+): 2–3 smaller meals to support digestion and joint health
If you’re feeding kibble, make sure you're choosing a high-quality, complete diet such as Royal Canin or Hill’s Science Diet. For cats on a wet food or mixed diet, split their daily portion between mealtimes to support hydration and digestive comfort.
The Benefits Of Timed Feedings Over Free Feeding
Free feeding – when food is available 24/7 – can lead to overeating, especially for indoor cats who may snack out of boredom. Here’s why scheduled mealtimes can be a better choice:
- Helps monitor appetite and health
- Encourages better digestion
- Promotes a healthy weight and reduces obesity risk
- Supports bathroom regularity (yes, even litter box visits can benefit!)
If your schedule’s a bit unpredictable, try using a smart feeder to automate mealtimes – a whisker-friendly solution for busy pet parents.
Tips For Creating A Healthy Feeding Routine
Every cat is a little different, but these general tips can help you create a consistent and healthy feeding routine for your indoor kitty:
- Feed your cat in the same quiet spot daily to create routine
- Use a shallow bowl or puzzle feeder to reduce whisker stress and slow down speed eaters
- Stick to the recommended serving sizes on your cat’s food label
- Offer treats sparingly – they should make up no more than 10% of their daily intake
- Keep fresh, clean water available at all times – bonus points for using a cat water fountain to encourage hydration
For those extra picky purr-balls, consider adding meal toppers to pique their interest and boost nutrition.
Feeding Tips For Cats With Special Needs
Just like us, some cats need a little extra TLC at mealtime. If your cat has health concerns like a sensitive tummy or weight issues, speak with your vet about choosing the right feeding plan and food. Petdirect offers a wide range of vet diets tailored to common feline needs, from urinary support to digestive care.
Need a little extra help managing portion sizes or remembering mealtimes? Our Autodeliver service makes mealtime a breeze, ensuring your cat’s favourites are delivered right to your door – on time, every time.
Feed With Love, Serve With Routine
A consistent feeding routine isn’t just about nutrition – it’s about keeping your indoor cat happy, healthy and confident in their daily rhythm. Whether you’re raising a kitten or caring for a golden oldie, the right schedule can work wonders for your cat’s wellbeing. At Petdirect, we’re here to help with everything from delicious cat food to healthy treats and smart feeding gear.
Paws up if you’re ready to create the purrfect feeding routine! Explore our top-rated picks for cat food and feeding accessories or speak with our friendly customer team – because at Petdirect, We Get Pet.