Cat Nutrition Hub

Cat Nutrition Hub

Cat Nutrition Hub2026-02-09T18:46:43+13:00

The best diet for cats at every age

From kitten to their golden years, learn which foods can help keep your cat healthy, energetic and thriving at every age.

The best diet for cats at every age

From kitten to their golden years, learn which foods can help keep your cat healthy, energetic and thriving at every age.

Cat nutrition know-how

Cat nutrition know-how

Everything you need to know about proper nutrition for your cat, smarter snack choices, plus the foods that are strictly off the menu.

Chocolate toxicity calculator

Worried your cat has eaten chocolate? Use our toxicity calculator to check the risk and find out what to do.

Chocolate toxicity calculator

Worried your cat has eaten chocolate? Use our toxicity calculator to check the risk and find out what to do.

Homemade cat treat recipes

Homemade cat treat recipes

Make your own cat treats at home with these simple recipes. Healthy, delicious, and purr-fect for spoiling your feline friend.

FAQs

Your top cat nutrition questions, answered by the experts.

What do cats eat?2026-01-23T01:44:38+13:00

Cats are obligate carnivores, so they need a meat-based diet to thrive. Their food should provide high-quality protein, plus key nutrients like taurine, vitamins and minerals. Wet food can help with hydration, while dry food may support dental health. Kittens, adults and seniors all have different nutritional needs, so choose age-appropriate food. Ask your vet for a feeding plan that suits your cat.

Can cats eat dog food?2026-01-23T01:44:38+13:00

Cats shouldn’t eat dog food regularly. While a small amount is unlikely to cause harm, dog food doesn’t contain all the nutrients cats need. Cats require more protein, fat and certain vitamins, including taurine. Long-term, feeding dog food can lead to malnutrition and health issues. Stick to a balanced diet made specifically for cats.

What foods are toxic to cats?2026-01-23T01:44:38+13:00

Some common foods are toxic to cats, including chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins and alcohol. Dairy products can also upset some cats’ stomachs. Other risky foods include artificial sweeteners like xylitol, and raw fish, raw eggs and bones, which can cause illness or injury. Keep harmful foods out of reach and avoid feeding your cat anything not made for them. If they eat something worrying, contact your vet straight away.

Can cats drink milk?2026-01-23T01:44:38+13:00

It’s usually not a good idea to give cats milk, even if they might like the taste of it. Most cats are lactose intolerant and can’t digest lactose properly, which can lead to diarrhoea or stomach cramps. If you want to offer your cat milk, choose specially formulated cat milk and only give small amounts. Always make sure your cat has access to fresh water to stay hydrated.  

Can cats eat cheese?2026-01-23T01:44:38+13:00

Cheese isn’t toxic, but it’s not an ideal treat. Many cats are lactose intolerant, so cheese can cause diarrhoea or an upset stomach. It’s also high in fat, which can contribute to weight gain or pancreatitis if given often. If you do offer cheese, keep it to a tiny, occasional treat and watch for any signs of discomfort. For regular rewards, choose balanced cat treats instead.  

Can cats eat chocolate?2026-01-23T01:44:38+13:00

No. Chocolate is toxic to cats. It contains theobromine and caffeine, which can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, a fast heart rate, seizures or even death. Dark and baking chocolate are especially dangerous. Keep chocolate away from your cat, and if they do eat any, take them to your vet immediately.

What do cats eat?2026-01-23T01:44:38+13:00

Cats are obligate carnivores, so they need a meat-based diet to thrive. Their food should provide high-quality protein, plus key nutrients like taurine, vitamins and minerals. Wet food can help with hydration, while dry food may support dental health. Kittens, adults and seniors all have different nutritional needs, so choose age-appropriate food. Ask your vet for a feeding plan that suits your cat.

Can cats eat dog food?2026-01-23T01:44:38+13:00

Cats shouldn’t eat dog food regularly. While a small amount is unlikely to cause harm, dog food doesn’t contain all the nutrients cats need. Cats require more protein, fat and certain vitamins, including taurine. Long-term, feeding dog food can lead to malnutrition and health issues. Stick to a balanced diet made specifically for cats.

What foods are toxic to cats?2026-01-23T01:44:38+13:00

Some common foods are toxic to cats, including chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins and alcohol. Dairy products can also upset some cats’ stomachs. Other risky foods include artificial sweeteners like xylitol, and raw fish, raw eggs and bones, which can cause illness or injury. Keep harmful foods out of reach and avoid feeding your cat anything not made for them. If they eat something worrying, contact your vet straight away.

Can cats drink milk?2026-01-23T01:44:38+13:00

It’s usually not a good idea to give cats milk, even if they might like the taste of it. Most cats are lactose intolerant and can’t digest lactose properly, which can lead to diarrhoea or stomach cramps. If you want to offer your cat milk, choose specially formulated cat milk and only give small amounts. Always make sure your cat has access to fresh water to stay hydrated.  

Can cats eat cheese?2026-01-23T01:44:38+13:00

Cheese isn’t toxic, but it’s not an ideal treat. Many cats are lactose intolerant, so cheese can cause diarrhoea or an upset stomach. It’s also high in fat, which can contribute to weight gain or pancreatitis if given often. If you do offer cheese, keep it to a tiny, occasional treat and watch for any signs of discomfort. For regular rewards, choose balanced cat treats instead.  

Can cats eat chocolate?2026-01-23T01:44:38+13:00

No. Chocolate is toxic to cats. It contains theobromine and caffeine, which can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, a fast heart rate, seizures or even death. Dark and baking chocolate are especially dangerous. Keep chocolate away from your cat, and if they do eat any, take them to your vet immediately.

Still scratching your head?

Still scratching your head?

Pet nutrition starts with the right advice. Whether it’s about choosing the right cat food or what to do when your pooch has eaten something they shouldn’t, your vet has the answers.

More ways to keep your cat healthy

More ways to keep your cat healthy

Check out vet-approved advice on cat safety, nutrition and parasite protection – because every purr starts with good care.

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