Indoor Cat Feeding Schedule NZ: Portion Guide, Enrichment & Weight Tips

Keeping your indoor cat happy and healthy starts with a balanced and consistent feeding routine. As pet parents in Aotearoa know, indoor cats have very different needs to their wild or outdoor cousins — especially when it comes to nutrition, activity, and weight management. In this guide, we’ll explore how to create an indoor cat feeding schedule that supports your feline’s wellbeing, prevents excess weight, and adds a little enrichment to their daily routine. Because at Petdirect, We Get Pet.

Why Indoor Cats Have Different Feeding Needs

Unlike their outdoor counterparts, indoor cats generally lead a more sedentary lifestyle. This means they tend to burn fewer kilojoules and can gain weight more easily. That’s why it’s important to:

• Choose a diet designed for indoor lifestyles
• Monitor portion sizes carefully
• Include enrichment to mimic their natural hunting instincts

Opting for premium cat foods from trusted brands like Royal Canin or Feline Natural can offer tailored nutrition that supports healthy weight and digestion for indoor cats.

How Much Should You Feed Your Indoor Cat?

The right portion depends on your cat’s age, weight, and activity level, as well as the type of food you're feeding (dry, wet, or freeze-dried).

As a general rule of paw:

• Kittens: Require more frequent feeding (3-4 times daily) and higher energy food, like kitten-specific formulas.
• Adult cats: Typically do well with 2 meals per day, served at the same times each day.
• Senior cats: May require smaller, more frequent meals depending on their health needs.

You can find a range of cat bowls and feeders to support regular mealtimes, including smart feeders for busy households.

Enrichment Feeding: More Than Just a Meal

Meal times are an easy opportunity to engage your cat’s mind and body. Cats are natural hunters, and encouraging those instincts helps prevent boredom and overeating.

Try these fun enrichment ideas:

• Interactive food-dispensing toys that make your cat work for their kibble
• LickiMats, which stretch out mealtime and provide mental stimulation
• Cat scratching towers or climbing shelves positioned near feeding spots for an extra challenge

To shake things up, consider adding mixers or toppers to their regular food, or offer the occasional healthy cat treat — just be careful not to overdo it.

Indoor Cat Weight Management Tips

Obesity is one of the most common health issues for indoor cats in New Zealand. To help your cat maintain ideal body condition:

• Weigh them regularly at home or during vet visits
• Use scales or measuring cups for every meal
• Switch to a weight management formula if they’re starting to round out at the middle
• Encourage gentle movement with daily cat play sessions

Portion-controlled feeding, paired with ample daily activity (laser pointer, anyone?), can make a big impact on your cat’s long-term health. Remember, a healthy cat is a happy cat.

Setting Up A Reliable Feeding Routine

Consistency is key to building a successful indoor cat feeding schedule. Here are a few quick starter tips:

• Pick set meal times and stick to them
• Use a smart feeder for consistent portion control, even when you're out
• Keep fresh water available at all times with a cat water fountain
• Store food properly using airtight containers to maintain freshness

If you have multiple cats, consider feeding them in separate rooms to monitor individual intake. Some cats also do better with free-feeding dry food paired with scheduled wet meals — just be sure it’s suited to their metabolism and activity level.

Tailored Feeding Makes A World Of Difference

Feeding your indoor cat isn’t just about filling their bowl — it’s about fuelling their health, supporting their weight, and engaging their natural instincts. By choosing the right food, portioning carefully, and introducing enrichment, you’ll be setting your feline up for a pawesome life indoors.

And remember, Petdirect is your one-stop-shop for all things feline. From smart feeders to nutritious cat food and stimulating toys, we’re here to help. Explore our Pet Perks loyalty programme and earn Airpoints while shopping smarter for your cat. Because We Get Pet — and we get yours.