The answer to the question in the title is largely common sense as the infographic indicates. The danger as I see it is that full-time indoor cats, neutered and spayed, are more likely to put on excess weight due to possible boredom and a lack of means to express natural behaviours and thereby expend energy and burn off some unnecessary calories.
Ultimately whether one free feeds or control feeds depends on each individual cat and their circumstances. Puzzle feeders are probably a good idea for indoor cats.
The quality of the food is also important in efforts to avoid feline obesity. Small cans/sachets of high-quality wet foods are best in my view. The size of a domestic cat’s stomach is relatively small, typically about the size of a ping pong ball or a small lemon.
For a more practical comparison, imagine a small fist or a golf ball. This small stomach size is one reason why cats prefer to eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. When a cat eats, its stomach expands slightly, but it can only hold a small amount of food at a time.
This is why free feeding works well for kittens and pregnant cats, but control feeding with regular portions is typically better for adult cats to avoid overeating.
Worth thinking about: the wildcat ancestor free feeds and whenever they can. The human concept of three meals a day is incorrect for domestic cats. Smaller amounts and more often is probably more suitable.
The decision to free-feed or control-feed a domestic cat depends on factors like age, lifestyle, and health status. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Kittens
- Free Feeding Preferred: Kittens have small stomachs and high energy needs. Free-feeding allows them to eat frequent small meals as they grow.
- Control Feeding in Special Cases: If a kitten has a medical condition or is at risk of overeating, controlled feeding might be recommended.
2. Adult Cats
- Control Feeding Recommended: Most adult cats benefit from regular feeding times and measured portions to maintain a healthy weight and prevent overeating.
- Free Feeding for Active Cats: Indoor-outdoor cats or highly active ones may need more calories and could handle free feeding without gaining excessive weight.
3. Indoor Cats
- Control Feeding Best: Indoor cats are often less active and more prone to obesity, so regulating meal times and portions helps prevent overeating and weight gain.
4. Indoor-Outdoor Cats
- Flexibility Needed: These cats expend more energy exploring, hunting, and roaming, so their feeding method can vary. Control feeding ensures proper nutrition, but free feeding can work if they don’t overeat.
5. Cats Prone to Obesity or Obese Cats
- Control Feeding Essential: Obese or overweight cats should always be control-fed with precise portions to promote gradual weight loss and prevent overconsumption.
- Special Diets: For weight management, consult a vet to provide food tailored to their health needs.
In summary, kittens often thrive with free feeding, while control feeding is generally better for adult cats, particularly indoor or obese ones.
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