Cats are solitary hunters and eaters.
Among all cat species, only lions hunt and eat together. In a natural setting, cats will hunt and eat 10 or more small meals per day. One way to mimic this natural hunting behavior is to use a ‘foraging feeder’ or ‘food puzzle’ where your cat has to interact with the feeder to get small pieces of food You can also hide small amounts of dry Science Diet cat food around the house for your cat to seek out and eat, perhaps in shallow plastic containers or egg cartons.
For people, eating is a social event, but because cats are solitary hunters, most would prefer to eat alone. This means when one cat in a home must be fed separately from the others, she is probably happier. Although they prefer to eat alone, healthy cats may not mind the presence of others at feeding time. However, in times of illness or stress, this tolerance may decrease. It is also important to know that the behaviors shown by your cat when you come home (e.g., meowing, rubbing on your legs, seeking attention) is a greeting behavior and is not a request for cat food. You should reward this behavior with attention such as petting or play, but feed your cat later.
Temperature matters
As a hunter, cats prefer food that is close to their own body temperature (about 101° F/ 38° C). If you are taking canned cat food from the refrigerator, it should be warmed in the microwave (and stirred well) or warmed by the addition of some hot water.
Cat | Dog |
Strict carnivore (must have animal source protein in their diet, but also able to use many nutrients from plants) |
Omnivore (diet of plant and animal sources) |
10 or more small meals/day |
1-3 larger meals/day |
Will hunt and eat at any time of day or night |
Hunt and eat during daylight |
No social value to eating |
Eating has social value |
1-3 larger meals/day |
Mealtime is a special time for cats.
Feeding not only satisfies a cat’s abundant energy needs, but also provides her with the right nutrients she needs to stay healthy and strong. Although some cats have the ability to regulate their food intake, others will overindulge or have difficulty eating around other cats.
Simple guidelines for feeding your cat
Do you have multiple cats in your household? Learn about feeding multiple cats.
One of our staff authors prepared this article for you
Delicious seared tuna paired with tender carrots in a mouthwatering sauce
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Supports the health of the whole urinary system with optimal levels of magnesium
Supports energy level & beautiful fur. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy.
Delicious roasted chicken and rice in a mouthwatering sauce
Supports ideal body weight for cats with different body types
Delectable chunks with tender chicken smothered in a rich gravy
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for cats age 7+
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Delicious seared tuna paired with tender carrots in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken & Vegetable Entrée canned cat food provides nutrition for optimal digestive & skin health.
Delicious tender chicken and rice in a mouthwatering sauce with precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Highly digestible food that is gentle on the stomach. Nourishes skin & promotes lustrous fur.
Fewer calories for less active cats
Supports the developmental needs of kittens to help start life with healthy growth and a strong immune system.ain, eye & immune system development
Supports energy level and beautiful fur in indoor cats
Supports brain health and beautiful fur in mature indoor cats
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Feline Sensitive Stomach & Skin Variety Pack
Cats are built to groom themselves from their tongue to their coat. Read more about their grooming habits so you can understand their needs.
Going on vacation? Use this cat travel checklist to make sure you've got all her important supplies, such as food, toys & her vet info, for your trip.
From the kitten stage to the geriatric cat stage, learn the six cat life stages and tips for providing the best care for your cat at any stage of her life.
Learn from a veterinarian: How to spot the serious signs of feline pancreatitis, emergency care, and what kind of diet to feed her while she's recovering.
Cat injuries require special attention—earn how to recognize a cat injury, details about cat wound care and recommendations for helping cats heal at home.
Learn how to identify the kitten food that best aligns with her nutritional needs, keeping her active and healthy as she grows into an adult cat.
Learn about common cat allergies, including clinical signs, the most common types of allergies and treatment options for your cat.
Learn helpful care tips for your kitten in their first four months, including essential topics like bedding, food, using the litter box, grooming & more.
Wondering how to get your cat to take a pill? This guide provides you with tactics for how to give a cat a pill!
It's important to introduce your new kitten to kids, strangers and family pets early in their development to help raise a well-adjusted, socializing cat.
If your cat refuses to drink from her water dish, or sees it more of a toy, learn some different ways you can encourage your cat to drink from a bowl.
If you have a senior-aged cat, learn why its so important to take her to regular vet visits & blood work, especially if she has a health condition.
Here's a simple, cost-effective way to create a DIY cat-proof toilet paper holder cover that keeps your feline friend from destroying your TP.
Learn about the importance of feeding your adult cat the right amount of food at proper times, and find out what feeding method is best for your cat.
Know the importance of understanding a cat's intelligence, mysterious and compelling nature, and cognitive abilities for building a lasting bond with your pet.
Learn about the impact of brain aging and cognitive brain disorders that can affect cats. Good brain health is critical as your cat ages.
Learn how to keep your new kitten active and playful, which can help her maintain her ideal weight.
Illnesses, accidents and surgeries are an unfortunate consequence of life, even for cats. Understand how nutrition can play a role in your cat's recovery.
Learn the history and symptoms of ailurophobia, or the fear of cats, and how to help people who suffer from this condition.
Discover health issues that can occur if your cat eats string, what you should do if you're sure they did, and possible treatments your vet might suggest.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
©2025 Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. As used herein, denotes registered trademark status in the U.S. only; registration status in other geographies may be different. Your use of this site is subject to the terms of our Legal Statement. About our Ads. Cookie Consent Tool