Feeding, Litter, and Daily Care: A New Cat Owner’s Complete Guide
Published: December 21, 2025
Bringing home a new cat is exciting, but it’s normal to feel unsure about daily care—especially when it comes to feeding and litter box routines. New cat owners often search questions like how often should I feed my cat, how much wet food should a cat eat, or how often should I clean the litter box because they want to get it right from the start.
This guide breaks down the essentials of feeding, litter, and daily care, with clear, practical answers designed specifically for new cat owners.
How Often Should I Feed My Cat?
One of the first questions new cat owners ask is how often should I feed my cat.
Most adult cats do well with:
2 meals per day (typically morning and evening)
However, feeding frequency isn’t one-size-fits-all:
Kittens usually need 4 meals per day to support growth
Some adult cats benefit from smaller meals spread throughout the day
Senior cats often do better with more frequent, smaller meals to aid digestion and maintain stable energy levels
Cats are routine-driven animals, so consistency matters more than the exact schedule you choose.
How Much Should I Feed My Cat? (Calories & Weight)
Instead of guessing portion sizes, it’s more accurate to feed based on your cat’s weight and daily calorie needs.
A general guideline for adult cats:
20–30 calories per pound of body weight per day
For example:
A 10-pound adult cat typically needs 200–300 calories per day
Less active or indoor-only cats often need calories on the lower end
Active or younger cats may need slightly more
Always check the calorie information on your cat food packaging, as portion sizes vary widely between brands.
How Much Wet Food Should a Cat Eat?
If you’re wondering how much wet food should a cat eat, the answer depends on the calorie content of the food and your cat’s daily needs.
Most standard cans of wet food contain:
70–120 calories per 3–5 oz can
Using a 10-pound cat as an example:
If your cat eats only wet food, they may need 2–3 cans per day
If you feed a mix of wet and dry food, the amount of wet food will be lower
Wet food is an excellent option for hydration and is especially beneficial for cats prone to urinary or kidney issues.
Why Does My Cat Refuse Wet Food?
Many new owners ask why does my cat refuse wet food, and the answer is usually simple—not stubbornness.
Common reasons include:
Preference for dry food textures
Stress from a new home environment
Food served too cold
Sudden diet changes
Try warming the food slightly, offering different textures (pâté vs. chunks), or transitioning slowly by mixing wet and dry food over several days.
How Often Should I Clean the Litter Box?
Another very common question is how often should I clean the litter box.
Best practice for most cats:
Scoop at least once daily
Fully change litter and wash the box every 1–2 weeks
Cats are extremely sensitive to litter box cleanliness. Inconsistent cleaning can lead to stress or litter box avoidance—even in well-trained cats.
Best Litter for Apartment Cats
Choosing the best litter for apartment cats often comes down to odor control, dust, and tracking—especially in smaller living spaces.
Many apartment cat owners prefer:
Clumping litter for easier daily scooping
Low-dust litter for better air quality
Unscented formulas, which most cats tolerate better
In apartments, frequent scooping is just as important as the litter you choose.
Daily Care Tips for New Cat Owners
Daily care goes beyond feeding and litter:
Provide fresh water at all times
Offer playtime and enrichment
Monitor appetite and bathroom habits
Keep feeding and litter areas clean
Noticing small changes early—like reduced appetite or fewer litter box visits—can help prevent larger health issues.
Why Routine Matters So Much for Cats
New cat owners are often surprised by how strongly cats rely on routine. Changes in feeding times, portion sizes, or litter box cleanliness can quickly impact behavior and health.
Consistent routines help:
Reduce anxiety
Encourage healthy eating habits
Prevent litter box issues
This is also why maintaining routine is so important when owners travel or have long workdays.