Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require nutrients found only in animal tissue and cannot thrive on a plant-based diet. A balanced diet is best provided through complete commercial food labeled as AAFCO-compliant for the appropriate life stage; AAFCO (the Association of American Feed Control Officials) sets pet food nutritional standards. Taurine is an essential amino acid for cats, and deficiencies can cause serious heart and eye problems. The wet-versus-dry debate has no single right answer: wet food provides valuable hydration, while dry food is convenient and may support dental health, and both can be balanced. Adults typically eat two to three meals per day, kittens need three to four, and while free-feeding works for some cats, it can contribute to obesity. Fresh water should always be available, and many cats prefer running water from a fountain.
Contrary to popular belief, cats do not need milk—most are lactose intolerant. Several human foods are toxic to cats, including onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol, alcohol, caffeine, and raw dough. Tuna should be reserved as an occasional treat rather than a dietary staple, both because it is nutritionally incomplete and may contain mercury. Some veterinarians also recommend rotating proteins and brands for variety. For specific medical conditions, prescription diets (such as those for kidney, urinary, or weight issues) and probiotics for digestive support can play important roles under veterinary guidance.
Daily grooming is mostly handled by the cat, but human help is valuable, especially for long-haired breeds. Short-haired cats benefit from weekly brushing, while long-haired cats ideally need daily brushing to prevent matting—tangled fur that can hurt the skin. Hairballs result from hair swallowed during grooming and are normally vomited or passed; regular brushing, hairball-control food, and paste supplements can help prevent them. Nails should be trimmed every two to three weeks, cutting only the clear tip and avoiding the pink "quick." Scratching is a natural behavior for shedding nail sheaths, marking territory through scent and visual cues, stretching, and exercise, which is why scratching posts are essential furniture-savers. Preferred materials include sisal rope, cardboard, and sometimes carpet or bark, and the choice between vertical and horizontal scratchers should match whether the cat enjoys tall stretches or ground-level ones. To lift a cat safely, support the hind end with one hand while cradling the chest with the other, never dangle them, and avoid scruffing—an outdated handling method that causes stress and should only be used by professionals if absolutely necessary.