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How to feed cats separately & switch to meal times for diet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 5 years old | 16 lbs

My cat is obese, and I've been trying to put her on a diet, but our cats keep eating each others food. Do you have any tips about how to separately feed cats or about how to switch from a free feeding schedule to a meal schedule?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Debi Matlack

Veterinary Technician

Published on January 8th, 2020

Start feeding them separately and measure their food. Divide the total amount your cat should have per day and split it into two, three or more meals, depending on your schedule so she doesn't have to go too many hours between meals. Check the label on your cat food for feeding recommendations for your cat's weight or, if you haven't yet done this, make an appointment with your vet for an evaluation and a prescription diet and weight loss plan. Feed one cat in one room, shut them in and feed the other cat at the other end of the house, or upstairs if you have a two-story home. Depending on how food motivated your cat is, you can get her to follow you around the house a few laps before putting her food down for her. If she likes to play, take some time to play with her every day, using a wand toy or a ball she can chase and swat around. Drag a toy on a string for her to chase as you walk around the house, anything to get her moving and active.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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