Chat with Omelo

PawCorner

Cat Food Made Simple

Pet Parenting Playbook

Aug 23, 2025

In Indian homes—where summers are hot, monsoons are humid, and many cats live indoors—getting cat food and hydration right can prevent urinary issues, obesity, hairballs, picky eating, and tummy upsets.

What Cats Need: The Nutrition Basics

Animal protein first: Cats require essential amino acids like taurine, arginine, and methionine—best met through animal proteins (chicken, fish, turkey, lamb). Plant proteins don’t fully substitute.

Moderate fat, controlled carbs: Cats use protein and fat as primary energy sources. High-carb diets can contribute to weight gain and blood sugar spikes.
Taurine and arachidonic acid: Must be present; deficiency risks heart and eye issues (taurine) and skin/coat problems (arachidonic acid).
Moisture matters: Cats have a low thirst drive; higher-moisture diets help protect urinary health.
Vitamins and minerals: Balanced calcium-phosphorus, vitamin A (preformed from animal sources), vitamin D, B-complex, and trace minerals.

If an ingredient label feels confusing, share it with Omelo—your 24x7 AI Pet Companion—for an instant “green/amber/red” verdict and tailored suggestions for age and health.

Dry vs. Wet vs. Fresh-Cooked: What Works in India

Dry kibble (convenient, shelf-stable): Useful for free-feeding in multi-cat homes only if measured; often lower moisture. Pair with plenty of water or a wet topper.
Wet food (cans, pouches): Higher moisture supports urinary health and helps picky eaters. Great during heat waves or when water intake is low.
Fresh-cooked (balanced): Home-cooked can be excellent if supplemented properly. Cats need precise taurine, calcium, vitamin A, and other micronutrients—use a vet-approved feline multivitamin/mineral mix. Avoid alliums (onion/garlic), spices, and oil.
Raw diets: Higher handling risk in homes with children, elders, or immune-compromised family members. If attempted, follow strict hygiene and vet guidance.

Not sure which split to use? Omelo can design a wet+dry combo tailored to budget, water intake, age, and urinary history.

Moderate fat, controlled carbs: Cats use protein and fat as primary energy sources. High-carb diets can contribute to weight gain and blood sugar spikes.
Taurine and arachidonic acid: Must be present; deficiency risks heart and eye issues (taurine) and skin/coat problems (arachidonic acid).
Moisture matters: Cats have a low thirst drive; higher-moisture diets help protect urinary health.
Vitamins and minerals: Balanced calcium-phosphorus, vitamin A (preformed from animal sources), vitamin D, B-complex, and trace minerals.

If an ingredient label feels confusing, share it with Omelo—your 24x7 AI Pet Companion—for an instant “green/amber/red” verdict and tailored suggestions for age and health.

Dry vs. Wet vs. Fresh-Cooked: What Works in India

Dry kibble (convenient, shelf-stable): Useful for free-feeding in multi-cat homes only if measured; often lower moisture. Pair with plenty of water or a wet topper.
Wet food (cans, pouches): Higher moisture supports urinary health and helps picky eaters. Great during heat waves or when water intake is low.
Fresh-cooked (balanced): Home-cooked can be excellent if supplemented properly. Cats need precise taurine, calcium, vitamin A, and other micronutrients—use a vet-approved feline multivitamin/mineral mix. Avoid alliums (onion/garlic), spices, and oil.
Raw diets: Higher handling risk in homes with children, elders, or immune-compromised family members. If attempted, follow strict hygiene and vet guidance.

Not sure which split to use? Omelo can design a wet+dry combo tailored to budget, water intake, age, and urinary history.

Moderate fat, controlled carbs: Cats use protein and fat as primary energy sources. High-carb diets can contribute to weight gain and blood sugar spikes.
Taurine and arachidonic acid: Must be present; deficiency risks heart and eye issues (taurine) and skin/coat problems (arachidonic acid).
Moisture matters: Cats have a low thirst drive; higher-moisture diets help protect urinary health.
Vitamins and minerals: Balanced calcium-phosphorus, vitamin A (preformed from animal sources), vitamin D, B-complex, and trace minerals.

If an ingredient label feels confusing, share it with Omelo—your 24x7 AI Pet Companion—for an instant “green/amber/red” verdict and tailored suggestions for age and health.

Dry vs. Wet vs. Fresh-Cooked: What Works in India

Dry kibble (convenient, shelf-stable): Useful for free-feeding in multi-cat homes only if measured; often lower moisture. Pair with plenty of water or a wet topper.
Wet food (cans, pouches): Higher moisture supports urinary health and helps picky eaters. Great during heat waves or when water intake is low.
Fresh-cooked (balanced): Home-cooked can be excellent if supplemented properly. Cats need precise taurine, calcium, vitamin A, and other micronutrients—use a vet-approved feline multivitamin/mineral mix. Avoid alliums (onion/garlic), spices, and oil.
Raw diets: Higher handling risk in homes with children, elders, or immune-compromised family members. If attempted, follow strict hygiene and vet guidance.

Not sure which split to use? Omelo can design a wet+dry combo tailored to budget, water intake, age, and urinary history.

Life Stage Feeding: Kitten, Adult, Senior

Kittens (up to 12 months): High-protein energy for growth, DHA for brain and vision. Feed 3–4 small meals daily; build positive associations with both wet and dry textures.

Adults (1–7 years): Maintain lean condition; 2–3 meals daily. Prioritize hydration and measured portions to prevent weight gain and urinary crystals.
Seniors (7+ years): Watch weight trends; some need fewer calories, others lose weight and need calorie-dense wet food. Support joints, kidneys, and dental health.

Send weight and a top-down photo to Omelo—your 24x7 AI Pet Companion—once a month for a quick body condition check and portion correction.

Portion Sizes and Feeding Routines

Start with the brand’s feeding guide, then adjust by ~10% every 1–2 weeks based on weight and body condition.
Split daily food into 2–3 meals; avoid “bottomless bowl” feeding unless carefully measured and the cat is naturally lean.
Use food puzzles and slow bowls for enrichment and controlled intake.
Treats should be ≤10% of daily calories. For training or bonding, use tiny pieces of freeze-dried meat or a few kibbles from the daily ration.

Omelo can convert calories to grams for specific food brands and generate a weekly feeding timetable that fits work schedules.

Hydration: The Quiet Key to Urinary Health

Multiple water bowls: Place them away from food and litter; cats often prefer wide, shallow bowls.
Fountains: Many cats love moving water—great in hot months.
Wet food: Even one wet meal daily can improve hydration.
Broth toppers: Plain, unsalted chicken or fish broth (no onion/garlic) added to food can boost intake.
Ice cubes in summer: Some cats enjoy playing with and licking ice cubes—use clean water only.

If urine seems very concentrated, there’s straining, or visits to the litter are frequent with little output—message Omelo immediately for triage and next steps.

Reading Labels Like a Pro

Named animal proteins: “chicken,” “salmon,” “turkey” at the top of the list. Avoid vague “meat” or “animal by-products” as primary protein sources.
Protein percentage: For dry, look for higher protein and appropriate fat with controlled carbs. For wet, higher protein and moisture are positives.
Taurine listed: A must-have in feline diets.
Avoid unnecessary fillers: Excess corn/wheat/soy in sensitive cats may cause tummy upsets. Many cats tolerate grains fine, but digestibility and stool quality should guide choices.
Add-ons that help: Omega-3s (fish oil) for skin/coat; prebiotics/probiotics for gut health; urine pH support in urinary-prone cats.

Share a photo of the label with Omelo—your 24x7 AI Pet Companion—for quick, plain-English analysis and a go/no-go call.

Kittens (up to 12 months): High-protein energy for growth, DHA for brain and vision. Feed 3–4 small meals daily; build positive associations with both wet and dry textures.

Adults (1–7 years): Maintain lean condition; 2–3 meals daily. Prioritize hydration and measured portions to prevent weight gain and urinary crystals.
Seniors (7+ years): Watch weight trends; some need fewer calories, others lose weight and need calorie-dense wet food. Support joints, kidneys, and dental health.

Send weight and a top-down photo to Omelo—your 24x7 AI Pet Companion—once a month for a quick body condition check and portion correction.

Portion Sizes and Feeding Routines

Start with the brand’s feeding guide, then adjust by ~10% every 1–2 weeks based on weight and body condition.
Split daily food into 2–3 meals; avoid “bottomless bowl” feeding unless carefully measured and the cat is naturally lean.
Use food puzzles and slow bowls for enrichment and controlled intake.
Treats should be ≤10% of daily calories. For training or bonding, use tiny pieces of freeze-dried meat or a few kibbles from the daily ration.

Omelo can convert calories to grams for specific food brands and generate a weekly feeding timetable that fits work schedules.

Hydration: The Quiet Key to Urinary Health

Multiple water bowls: Place them away from food and litter; cats often prefer wide, shallow bowls.
Fountains: Many cats love moving water—great in hot months.
Wet food: Even one wet meal daily can improve hydration.
Broth toppers: Plain, unsalted chicken or fish broth (no onion/garlic) added to food can boost intake.
Ice cubes in summer: Some cats enjoy playing with and licking ice cubes—use clean water only.

If urine seems very concentrated, there’s straining, or visits to the litter are frequent with little output—message Omelo immediately for triage and next steps.

Reading Labels Like a Pro

Named animal proteins: “chicken,” “salmon,” “turkey” at the top of the list. Avoid vague “meat” or “animal by-products” as primary protein sources.
Protein percentage: For dry, look for higher protein and appropriate fat with controlled carbs. For wet, higher protein and moisture are positives.
Taurine listed: A must-have in feline diets.
Avoid unnecessary fillers: Excess corn/wheat/soy in sensitive cats may cause tummy upsets. Many cats tolerate grains fine, but digestibility and stool quality should guide choices.
Add-ons that help: Omega-3s (fish oil) for skin/coat; prebiotics/probiotics for gut health; urine pH support in urinary-prone cats.

Share a photo of the label with Omelo—your 24x7 AI Pet Companion—for quick, plain-English analysis and a go/no-go call.

Kittens (up to 12 months): High-protein energy for growth, DHA for brain and vision. Feed 3–4 small meals daily; build positive associations with both wet and dry textures.

Adults (1–7 years): Maintain lean condition; 2–3 meals daily. Prioritize hydration and measured portions to prevent weight gain and urinary crystals.
Seniors (7+ years): Watch weight trends; some need fewer calories, others lose weight and need calorie-dense wet food. Support joints, kidneys, and dental health.

Send weight and a top-down photo to Omelo—your 24x7 AI Pet Companion—once a month for a quick body condition check and portion correction.

Portion Sizes and Feeding Routines

Start with the brand’s feeding guide, then adjust by ~10% every 1–2 weeks based on weight and body condition.
Split daily food into 2–3 meals; avoid “bottomless bowl” feeding unless carefully measured and the cat is naturally lean.
Use food puzzles and slow bowls for enrichment and controlled intake.
Treats should be ≤10% of daily calories. For training or bonding, use tiny pieces of freeze-dried meat or a few kibbles from the daily ration.

Omelo can convert calories to grams for specific food brands and generate a weekly feeding timetable that fits work schedules.

Hydration: The Quiet Key to Urinary Health

Multiple water bowls: Place them away from food and litter; cats often prefer wide, shallow bowls.
Fountains: Many cats love moving water—great in hot months.
Wet food: Even one wet meal daily can improve hydration.
Broth toppers: Plain, unsalted chicken or fish broth (no onion/garlic) added to food can boost intake.
Ice cubes in summer: Some cats enjoy playing with and licking ice cubes—use clean water only.

If urine seems very concentrated, there’s straining, or visits to the litter are frequent with little output—message Omelo immediately for triage and next steps.

Reading Labels Like a Pro

Named animal proteins: “chicken,” “salmon,” “turkey” at the top of the list. Avoid vague “meat” or “animal by-products” as primary protein sources.
Protein percentage: For dry, look for higher protein and appropriate fat with controlled carbs. For wet, higher protein and moisture are positives.
Taurine listed: A must-have in feline diets.
Avoid unnecessary fillers: Excess corn/wheat/soy in sensitive cats may cause tummy upsets. Many cats tolerate grains fine, but digestibility and stool quality should guide choices.
Add-ons that help: Omega-3s (fish oil) for skin/coat; prebiotics/probiotics for gut health; urine pH support in urinary-prone cats.

Share a photo of the label with Omelo—your 24x7 AI Pet Companion—for quick, plain-English analysis and a go/no-go call.

Common Indian Household Considerations

Heat and humidity: Cats may eat less in summer. Offer smaller, more frequent wet meals. Keep bowls in cool spots; avoid ant trails.

Apartment living: Indoor-only cats need controlled calories and enrichment to prevent boredom snacking.
Multi-cat homes: Feed separately if one cat steals food or another is anxious around bowls.
Festivals and guests: Maintain meal times; use quiet feeding corners.
Street-to-home transitions: Newly adopted cats may have sensitive stomachs—transition food over 7–10 days and introduce wet food early.

Omelo can craft a heat-aware feeding plan and suggest ant-proof, raised feeding stations.

Special Diet Situations

Sensitive stomach: Try limited-ingredient diets or single-protein formulas (e.g., chicken-only or fish-only). Transition slowly.
Hairballs: Use hairball-control formulas, regular brushing, and increased hydration. Add omega-3s if skin is dry.
Urinary-prone cats: Prioritize wet diets, water intake, and urinary-support formulas where appropriate. Keep litter boxes clean and easily accessible.
Overweight cats: Reduce calories slowly; increase play. Aim for gradual, safe weight loss—rapid loss risks hepatic lipidosis (dangerous).
Dental issues: Softer textures, vet dental care, and dental diets or chews recommended by a vet.

Omelo can create a safe, stepwise reduction plan for weight loss and a play calendar that fits home space and work hours.

Safe Home Add‑Ons for Cats

Protein: Plain cooked chicken or fish (boneless, no salt/spices) in tiny amounts.
Broths: Home-made, unsalted, onion- and garlic-free chicken/fish broth.
Omega-3s: Vet-recommended fish oil doses can support skin/coat.
Fiber: A little pumpkin puree may help stool consistency in some cats.

Avoid alliums (onion, garlic), xylitol, chocolate, raisins/grapes, caffeine, alcohol, bones, and spicy/oily foods.

If trying a new add-on, run it by Omelo—your 24x7 AI Pet Companion—first for dose and safety.

Heat and humidity: Cats may eat less in summer. Offer smaller, more frequent wet meals. Keep bowls in cool spots; avoid ant trails.

Apartment living: Indoor-only cats need controlled calories and enrichment to prevent boredom snacking.
Multi-cat homes: Feed separately if one cat steals food or another is anxious around bowls.
Festivals and guests: Maintain meal times; use quiet feeding corners.
Street-to-home transitions: Newly adopted cats may have sensitive stomachs—transition food over 7–10 days and introduce wet food early.

Omelo can craft a heat-aware feeding plan and suggest ant-proof, raised feeding stations.

Special Diet Situations

Sensitive stomach: Try limited-ingredient diets or single-protein formulas (e.g., chicken-only or fish-only). Transition slowly.
Hairballs: Use hairball-control formulas, regular brushing, and increased hydration. Add omega-3s if skin is dry.
Urinary-prone cats: Prioritize wet diets, water intake, and urinary-support formulas where appropriate. Keep litter boxes clean and easily accessible.
Overweight cats: Reduce calories slowly; increase play. Aim for gradual, safe weight loss—rapid loss risks hepatic lipidosis (dangerous).
Dental issues: Softer textures, vet dental care, and dental diets or chews recommended by a vet.

Omelo can create a safe, stepwise reduction plan for weight loss and a play calendar that fits home space and work hours.

Safe Home Add‑Ons for Cats

Protein: Plain cooked chicken or fish (boneless, no salt/spices) in tiny amounts.
Broths: Home-made, unsalted, onion- and garlic-free chicken/fish broth.
Omega-3s: Vet-recommended fish oil doses can support skin/coat.
Fiber: A little pumpkin puree may help stool consistency in some cats.

Avoid alliums (onion, garlic), xylitol, chocolate, raisins/grapes, caffeine, alcohol, bones, and spicy/oily foods.

If trying a new add-on, run it by Omelo—your 24x7 AI Pet Companion—first for dose and safety.

Heat and humidity: Cats may eat less in summer. Offer smaller, more frequent wet meals. Keep bowls in cool spots; avoid ant trails.

Apartment living: Indoor-only cats need controlled calories and enrichment to prevent boredom snacking.
Multi-cat homes: Feed separately if one cat steals food or another is anxious around bowls.
Festivals and guests: Maintain meal times; use quiet feeding corners.
Street-to-home transitions: Newly adopted cats may have sensitive stomachs—transition food over 7–10 days and introduce wet food early.

Omelo can craft a heat-aware feeding plan and suggest ant-proof, raised feeding stations.

Special Diet Situations

Sensitive stomach: Try limited-ingredient diets or single-protein formulas (e.g., chicken-only or fish-only). Transition slowly.
Hairballs: Use hairball-control formulas, regular brushing, and increased hydration. Add omega-3s if skin is dry.
Urinary-prone cats: Prioritize wet diets, water intake, and urinary-support formulas where appropriate. Keep litter boxes clean and easily accessible.
Overweight cats: Reduce calories slowly; increase play. Aim for gradual, safe weight loss—rapid loss risks hepatic lipidosis (dangerous).
Dental issues: Softer textures, vet dental care, and dental diets or chews recommended by a vet.

Omelo can create a safe, stepwise reduction plan for weight loss and a play calendar that fits home space and work hours.

Safe Home Add‑Ons for Cats

Protein: Plain cooked chicken or fish (boneless, no salt/spices) in tiny amounts.
Broths: Home-made, unsalted, onion- and garlic-free chicken/fish broth.
Omega-3s: Vet-recommended fish oil doses can support skin/coat.
Fiber: A little pumpkin puree may help stool consistency in some cats.

Avoid alliums (onion, garlic), xylitol, chocolate, raisins/grapes, caffeine, alcohol, bones, and spicy/oily foods.

If trying a new add-on, run it by Omelo—your 24x7 AI Pet Companion—first for dose and safety.

Sample Daily Feeding Routine (Adjust for Age and Appetite)

Morning

Play (5–8 minutes wand toy)
Wet meal (measured; room temp or slightly warmed)
Fresh water refresh

Afternoon

Short play + a few kibbles in a puzzle feeder
Fresh water check

Evening

Play (5–10 minutes)
Wet or mixed meal; a few kibbles for training or scatter hunt
Litter check and quick brush

Omelo can auto-generate this routine with exact grams, play ideas, and reminders.

Morning

Play (5–8 minutes wand toy)
Wet meal (measured; room temp or slightly warmed)
Fresh water refresh

Afternoon

Short play + a few kibbles in a puzzle feeder
Fresh water check

Evening

Play (5–10 minutes)
Wet or mixed meal; a few kibbles for training or scatter hunt
Litter check and quick brush

Omelo can auto-generate this routine with exact grams, play ideas, and reminders.

Morning

Play (5–8 minutes wand toy)
Wet meal (measured; room temp or slightly warmed)
Fresh water refresh

Afternoon

Short play + a few kibbles in a puzzle feeder
Fresh water check

Evening

Play (5–10 minutes)
Wet or mixed meal; a few kibbles for training or scatter hunt
Litter check and quick brush

Omelo can auto-generate this routine with exact grams, play ideas, and reminders.

FAQs: Cat Food in India

Q1) Is wet food necessary?
A) Not mandatory, but highly beneficial for hydration and urinary health. Even one wet meal a day helps.

Q2) Can cats be vegetarian?
A) No. Cats are obligate carnivores and require nutrients found in animal sources, especially taurine and certain fatty acids.

Q3) How fast should I change food?
A) Over 7–10 days: start with 75% old + 25% new, then 50/50, then 25/75, monitoring stool and appetite.

Q4) My cat won’t drink much water—what can I do?
A) Offer wet food, add broth toppers (unsalted, no onion/garlic), try water fountains, and place multiple bowls around the house.

Q5) How do I handle a picky eater?
A) Offer consistent meal times, warm food slightly, rotate textures (pâté, chunks, shreds), and avoid frequent brand hopping. Omelo can build a gentle rotation plan.

Q6) Is fish okay daily?
A) Fish can be part of the diet, but vary proteins to avoid intolerances and ensure balance. Avoid bones and excess salt.

Q7) How much should my cat eat?
A) Depends on age, weight, body condition, and activity. Use the brand guide as a start; Omelo converts daily calories to exact grams for the chosen food.

Q8) Do indoor cats need special food?
A) Indoor formulas can help with hairballs and calorie control. Pair with play and puzzles to manage weight.

Q9) What signs suggest the current food isn’t working?
A) Persistent vomiting/diarrhea, very dull coat, itching without fleas, or lethargy. Contact a vet and share details with Omelo for triage.

Q10) Is homemade food okay?A) Yes, if properly balanced with a feline-specific supplement and vet guidance. Unbalanced homemade diets can cause serious deficiencies over time.