Cats love their meat. In fact, our feline friends are natural carnivores and need animal tissue to maintain their long-term health.

Animal experts say that, while it is possible to give the family dog a non-meat diet, cats should not be fed a vegetarian diet because they require certain nutrients that are not sufficiently available from plant foods. (Furthermore, a cat fed a vegetarian diet is more likely to hunt small rodents and birds to satisfy their need for meat.) If you are considering putting your cat on a non-meat diet, visit Cats - A Vegetarian Diet by the Vegetarian Society and talk to your veterinarian.

What to Feed
According to veterinarians, cats should eat only cat food, formulated to meet their unique dietary needs. While many cats enjoy raiding the dog's food bowl, cats do not receive proper nutrition from dog food products.

There are many different types of food on the market for cats. Whichever brand and flavor you choose, always buy a high quality food that is formulated for good urinary tract health. This is especially important as cats age, or they may suffer kidney and liver problems.

Most pet health experts recommend dry food as your cat's primary diet. It is better for the teeth and it is generally more nutritious (moist food tends to have a lot of artificial colors and preservatives). If your cat enjoys moist food, use it as a treat, rather than as his food staple.

When to Feed
Cats are "grazers" by nature. They eat to satisfy their need for energy, then stop eating when that energy demand is met. This means that cats tend to eat small, but frequent, meals during the day rather than a few large meals. Unless you have a cat who overindulges, it's a good idea to leave food out during the day and allow your cat to eat at will.

Many cats eat in cycles, a trait passed down from their wild ancestors that ate depending on the success of the hunt. Do not mistake these peaks and valleys for dissatisfaction with the food. Switching brands frequently can reinforce bad habits and create finicky eaters.

How Much to Feed
A 10-pound adult cat generally needs to eat about 300 calories per day to maintain his or her weight. However, kittens (cats less than a year old) need more food --on a pound per pound basis -- than adult cats. They also need food specially designed for their young systems- with an increased level of the necessary proteins for growing muscles and bones.

While most cats naturally regulate their eating habits, some do indulge. Obesity is a serious problem and if your cat needs to lose a significant amount of weight, it's advisable to visit your veterinarian before you begin a weight loss program. (Also, see the Vet Views article this month.)