Bone broth has gained a massive following among U.S. pet owners, touted as a nutrient-rich supplement that supports hydration, joint health, digestion, and immunity. But does the science back up the hype? While feline-specific studies are still lacking, many veterinarians acknowledge its potential benefits—when used correctly.
If you’re wondering whether bone broth is safe and beneficial for your cat, this comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know, from benefits and risks to vet recommendations and homemade recipes.
🐾 Key Takeaways: What You Need to Know About Bone Broth for Cats
| Question | Quick Answer ✅ |
|---|---|
| Is bone broth safe for cats? | Yes, if plain and free from onions, garlic, or excess salt. |
| What are its main benefits? | Hydration 💧, gut health 🦠, joint support 🦴, appetite stimulation 🍽️, and potential immune boost 🛡️. |
| Are there any risks? | High sodium, toxic ingredients in human broths, and kidney strain in some cats. Always check with a vet first. |
| Can I give bone broth to a cat with kidney disease? | Not recommended ⚠️ due to its protein and mineral content. Consult a vet before use. |
| How much bone broth can I give my cat? | 1-2 tablespoons per day for an average-sized cat (8-10 lbs). Moderation is key! |
| Should I buy or make my own? | Either is fine, but homemade ensures quality and avoids additives. |
🍲 What Exactly Is Bone Broth?
Bone broth is a nutrient-rich liquid made by simmering animal bones and connective tissues (chicken, beef, turkey, or fish) for 12-24 hours. This slow-cooking process extracts collagen, amino acids, and minerals, making it thicker and more gelatinous than regular broth.
Unlike regular stock or soup bases, bone broth is typically unseasoned—which is essential for cats since common seasonings like garlic and onion are toxic.
💧 How Can Bone Broth Benefit My Cat?
While direct scientific studies on cats are limited, many pet owners and holistic veterinarians observe several potential benefits.
🐱 Top Benefits of Bone Broth for Cats
| Benefit | Why It Matters 🧐 | Scientific Backing 📖 |
|---|---|---|
| Hydration Support 💧 | Cats have a low thirst drive, leading to dehydration. Bone broth adds moisture to their diet. | Supported by veterinary hydration studies, but specific bone broth research is lacking. |
| Gut Health & Digestion 🦠 | Collagen and gelatin strengthen the gut lining, potentially easing IBD symptoms. | Canine studies suggest gut support, but no feline-specific trials exist. |
| Joint & Mobility Support 🦴 | Contains glucosamine, chondroitin, and hyaluronic acid, which may support aging joints. | Commonly used in dog arthritis treatments, but effects on cats remain anecdotal. |
| Shinier Coat & Healthy Skin ✨ | Collagen provides building blocks for fur and skin health. | Some vets note improvements in coat quality, but data is lacking. |
| Appetite Stimulation 🍽️ | The savory aroma entices picky eaters and cats recovering from illness. | Often used in senior cat nutrition, but formal studies are absent. |
| Immune System Boost 🛡️ | Nutrients like glutamine may support immune function and cellular repair. | Preliminary research in dogs, but no feline-specific conclusions yet. |
👉 Expert Tip: While bone broth isn’t a cure-all, it’s a useful supplement for hydration, digestion, and nutrition—when given in moderation.
⚠️ Are There Any Risks? What Should I Avoid?
Bone broth is generally safe for healthy cats, but certain ingredients and conditions make it unsuitable for all felines.
🚨 Bone Broth Risks & Safety Considerations for Cats
| Potential Risk | Why It’s a Concern 🚨 | How to Avoid It ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Onions & Garlic Toxicity ❌ | Many human broths contain onions, garlic, or chives, which can cause anemia in cats. | Use only cat-safe, unseasoned bone broth. Read labels carefully! |
| High Sodium Content ⚠️ | Store-bought broths can contain excess salt, leading to dehydration or kidney strain. | Choose low-sodium, pet-specific brands or make your own. |
| Kidney Disease Risk 🚫 | High protein and minerals can stress the kidneys, worsening pre-existing conditions. | Avoid in cats with kidney issues—consult your vet first. |
| Excessive Bone Fragments 🦴 | Improperly strained homemade broths can contain sharp bone particles. | Always strain thoroughly to remove debris. |
| Nutrient Imbalances ❌ | Bone broth lacks essential vitamins like taurine, making it unsuitable as a full meal. | Use as a supplement, not a primary diet. |
👉 Expert Tip: If your cat has a medical condition, always check with your veterinarian before adding bone broth to their diet.
🛒 Should I Buy or Make Bone Broth? Best Options in the U.S.
Both store-bought and homemade bone broth can be great options, but each has pros and cons.
🥣 Bone Broth: Store-Bought vs. Homemade
| Option | Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
|---|---|---|
| Store-Bought 🛒 | Convenient, ready to serve, often vet-formulated. | May contain unwanted additives or excess sodium. |
| Homemade 🍲 | Fully customizable, ensures no toxic ingredients. | Takes 12-24 hours to prepare and store properly. |
🔥 Top Store-Bought Bone Broths for Cats (U.S. Brands)
| Brand | Features | Price 💰 |
|---|---|---|
| Native Pet Bone Broth Powder | Single-ingredient, vet-approved, shelf-stable. | $15-$20 |
| Primal Bone Broth | Human-grade, organic turmeric added. | $12-$18 |
| The Honest Kitchen Bone Broth | Dehydrated, simple ingredients. | $10-$15 |
👉 Expert Tip: When buying bone broth, look for “cat-safe” labels and avoid any products with seasonings, onions, garlic, or high salt content.
🍲 Easy Homemade Bone Broth Recipe for Cats
Making your own bone broth ensures quality and safety. Here’s a simple U.S.-adapted recipe:
🐾 DIY Bone Broth Recipe
Ingredients:
✅ 2 lbs raw chicken or turkey bones (no seasoning)
✅ 1 gallon water
✅ 1-2 tsp apple cider vinegar (helps extract minerals)
Instructions:
1️⃣ Place bones and water in a slow cooker.
2️⃣ Add apple cider vinegar and let sit for 30 minutes before cooking.
3️⃣ Simmer on low heat for 24 hours.
4️⃣ Strain thoroughly to remove all bone fragments.
5️⃣ Let cool, then store in the fridge (5 days) or freeze in ice cube trays (up to 3 months).
👉 Serving Suggestion: Mix 1-2 tbsp into meals or serve as a hydrating treat.
🐾 Final Thoughts: Is Bone Broth Right for Your Cat?
- ✅ Great for hydration, digestion, and joint health.
- ⚠️ Avoid human broths with salt, onions, or garlic.
- 🔬 Science-backed benefits for cats are still limited.
- 💡 Use as a supplement, not a meal replacement.
If you’re considering bone broth for your cat, start with a small amount, ensure it’s free of harmful additives, and observe their response. It’s a tool, not a necessity, in feline wellness!
💬 Have you tried bone broth for your cat? Drop your experiences or questions below! 🐾🍲
🗨️ Expert Answers to Your Questions
💬 Comment 1: “Can I give bone broth to my cat every day?”
Yes, bone broth can be offered daily, but it should remain a supplement rather than a primary food source. While it provides hydration, collagen, and amino acids, it lacks essential nutrients like taurine, omega-3s, and sufficient protein levels to sustain a cat long-term.
🐾 Daily Bone Broth Guidelines for Cats
| Factor | Why It Matters 🧐 | Recommended Amount ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Hydration 💧 | Helps cats who don’t drink enough water. | 1-2 tbsp per meal or ¼ cup daily. |
| Joint Health 🦴 | Collagen & glucosamine may support mobility. | Consistent, small servings are best. |
| Digestion & Gut Health 🦠 | Gelatin can help with IBD or gut lining support. | Gradual introduction is key to avoid upset stomach. |
| Senior or Sick Cats 🏥 | Encourages appetite and provides easy-to-digest nutrients. | Offered with meals or as a warm treat. |
👉 Expert Tip: For senior cats or those recovering from illness, bone broth can be warmed slightly to enhance aroma and appeal.
💬 Comment 2: “Can kittens have bone broth?”
Yes, but with caution. Kittens require a diet rich in complete proteins, essential fatty acids, and taurine—nutrients that bone broth does not fully provide. It can, however, serve as a nutritious supplement to support hydration and digestion.
🐱 Bone Broth for Kittens: Safe or Not?
| Age Group | Safe? ✅/❌ | How to Offer It 🥄 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-4 Weeks (Newborns) 🍼 | ❌ No | Kittens need only mother’s milk or kitten formula. |
| 4-8 Weeks (Weaning Stage) 🐾 | ✅ Yes, in moderation | Add a tiny amount to soft food for hydration. |
| 8+ Weeks (Eating Solids) 🍗 | ✅ Yes | Serve as a meal topper, no more than 1 tbsp per meal. |
👉 Expert Tip: Avoid bone broth with onion, garlic, or added salt, as kittens are even more sensitive to toxic ingredients than adult cats.
💬 Comment 3: “My cat has urinary issues. Is bone broth safe?”
It depends. Bone broth contains minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, which could worsen urinary conditions if not balanced properly. Cats prone to urinary crystals or kidney disease should have their mineral intake monitored closely.
🚽 Bone Broth & Urinary Health: Safe or Risky?
| Condition | Risk Level 🚨 |
|---|---|
| Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) 🔶 Moderate | May help increase fluid intake to flush bacteria. |
| Bladder Stones or Crystals 🔴 High | Excess minerals can contribute to stone formation. |
| Kidney Disease ❌ Not Recommended | High protein & phosphorus can stress kidneys. |
👉 Expert Tip: If your cat has urinary or kidney issues, consult a vet before introducing bone broth. Diluting it with water can reduce mineral concentration.
💬 Comment 4: “Can I freeze homemade bone broth for my cat?”
Absolutely! Freezing is one of the best ways to store bone broth while preserving its nutrients and keeping it fresh for longer.
🧊 Best Methods for Freezing Bone Broth
| Storage Method | Why It Works ❄️ | Shelf Life ⏳ |
|---|---|---|
| Ice Cube Trays 🧊 | Convenient for portion control—easy to thaw per meal. | 3-4 months. |
| Mason Jars (Glass) 🏺 | Keeps broth fresh without plastic exposure. | 4-6 months. |
| Silicone Molds 🍽️ | Ideal for making small, single-serving portions. | 3-4 months. |
👉 Expert Tip: Label your containers with the date prepared and always thaw in the fridge, never at room temperature, to prevent bacterial growth.
💬 Comment 5: “Does bone broth help with hairballs?”
Bone broth may help reduce hairballs by supporting gut health and digestion. The gelatin and amino acids in bone broth can aid in breaking down fur in the digestive tract, preventing blockages.
🐱 Bone Broth vs. Hairballs: Does It Work?
| Factor | How It Helps ✅ | How to Use It 🥣 |
|---|---|---|
| Hydration 💧 | Helps move swallowed fur through the system more easily. | Mix 1-2 tbsp into meals daily. |
| Gut Lining Support 🦠 | Gelatin coats the stomach and supports digestion. | Add to a high-fiber diet for extra benefits. |
| Lubrication Effect 🛢️ | The liquid consistency helps with stool formation, reducing blockages. | Serve warm to enhance absorption. |
👉 Expert Tip: Combine bone broth with fiber sources (like pumpkin or psyllium husk) for even better hairball control.
💬 Comment 6: “Can I mix bone broth with kibble?”
Yes! In fact, adding bone broth to kibble can make dry food more appealing, hydrating, and easier to chew, especially for senior cats or those with dental issues.
🍽️ How to Mix Bone Broth with Dry Cat Food
| Method | Why It’s Effective ✅ | Best for… 🐾 |
|---|---|---|
| Light Coating (1-2 tbsp) | Enhances flavor and aroma without making food soggy. | Picky eaters, senior cats. |
| Full Soak (¼ cup broth per cup of kibble) | Softens kibble for easier chewing. | Cats with dental issues. |
| Broth & Freeze-Dried Mix | Adds moisture to freeze-dried raw food. | Cats on alternative diets. |
👉 Expert Tip: Start with small amounts and gradually increase to avoid digestive upset in cats not used to wet food.
💬 Comment 7: “My cat won’t drink bone broth. Any tips?”
Some cats may take time to warm up to bone broth, especially if they’re picky eaters or not used to new textures.
🐾 How to Encourage Your Cat to Drink Bone Broth
| Issue | Why It Happens 🤔 | Solutions ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Unfamiliar Smell 👃 | Some cats are hesitant about new scents. | Start with a few drops in their regular food. |
| Picky Eating Habits 🍽️ | Cats prefer routine and may resist change. | Mix with wet food or tuna juice for familiarity. |
| Cold Temperature ❄️ | Cold broth may be less appealing. | Warm slightly before serving to release aroma. |
👉 Expert Tip: Use a dropper or spoon to let your cat lick small amounts at first, then gradually increase the portion.
💬 Comment 8: “Can bone broth replace water for my cat?”
No, bone broth should never fully replace water in a cat’s diet. While it is an excellent hydration booster, it does not provide the same pure hydration benefits as fresh, clean water. Bone broth contains dissolved proteins, minerals, and amino acids, which—while beneficial—are not a substitute for daily water intake.
💧 Bone Broth vs. Water: Why Both Matter for Cats
| Factor | Bone Broth 🍲 | Water 💦 |
|---|---|---|
| Hydration | Increases moisture intake, but contains nutrients that must be processed by the body. | Pure hydration, critical for kidney health and temperature regulation. |
| Nutritional Value | Provides collagen, amino acids, and minerals. | No nutritional content—only hydration. |
| Digestibility | Easy to digest, but moderation is key. | Always safe, no digestion required. |
| Usage | Best as a supplement or meal topper. | Must always be available for drinking. |
👉 Expert Tip: If your cat doesn’t drink enough water, offer bone broth as a hydration enhancer, but always keep fresh water accessible.
💬 Comment 9: “Can I add bone broth to my cat’s raw food diet?”
Yes! Bone broth pairs exceptionally well with raw diets because it complements the natural, whole-food approach without introducing processed additives. It can enhance flavor, texture, and digestibility, particularly for cats who need extra moisture or are transitioning to raw feeding.
🥩 Bone Broth & Raw Diets: A Perfect Match?
| Benefit | Why It Works ✅ | Best Use 🐾 |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture Boost 💧 | Keeps raw-fed cats properly hydrated. | Pour a small amount over raw meals. |
| Digestive Support 🦠 | Helps break down proteins and improve gut health. | Use 1 tbsp per meal for better absorption. |
| Joint & Skin Health ✨ | Adds collagen & amino acids for coat & cartilage. | Works especially well for senior cats. |
👉 Expert Tip: Always choose a broth without salt or seasonings to keep it aligned with raw feeding principles.
💬 Comment 10: “Does bone broth expire? How do I know if it’s gone bad?”
Yes, bone broth can spoil if not stored properly. Fresh broth should be refrigerated or frozen to maintain its nutritional integrity and prevent bacterial growth. Signs of spoilage include sour smell, mold, or an unusual texture.
🕒 Bone Broth Storage & Expiration Guide
| Storage Method | Shelf Life ⏳ | Signs of Spoilage 🚨 |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated (in a sealed container) 🧊 | 4-5 days | Off-putting sour smell, slimy texture, or separation. |
| Frozen (in cubes or jars) ❄️ | 3-6 months | Ice crystals with discoloration or freezer burn. |
| Commercially Packaged (Unopened) 🏪 | Varies (Check Label) | Swollen packaging or an expired date. |
👉 Expert Tip: To extend freshness, freeze bone broth in silicone ice cube trays for easy portioning.
💬 Comment 11: “Is turkey bone broth better than chicken or beef for cats?”
No specific type of bone broth is inherently “better,” but some cats digest certain proteins more easily than others. The best choice depends on your cat’s individual preferences and dietary needs.
🐔🐄🐟 Comparing Different Bone Broths for Cats
| Type | Best For ✅ | Nutrient Highlights 🦴 | Potential Downsides ⚠️ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken 🍗 | Most common, easy to digest. | High in collagen & gelatin. | Some cats may have poultry allergies. |
| Turkey 🦃 | Good alternative to chicken. | Rich in tryptophan & amino acids. | Can be fattier than chicken broth. |
| Beef 🐄 | Higher in iron & minerals. | Contains more glucosamine for joints. | Stronger flavor—some cats dislike it. |
| Fish 🐟 | High in omega-3s for skin & coat. | Supports brain & immune function. | Higher risk of heavy metals (use in moderation). |
👉 Expert Tip: If your cat has food sensitivities, try a single-protein broth (e.g., just turkey bones) to identify any intolerances.
💬 Comment 12: “Can bone broth help cats with allergies?”
Bone broth may provide relief for some allergy-prone cats by supporting gut health and reducing inflammation. However, it’s not a cure and should be part of a broader allergy management plan.
🤧 Bone Broth & Cat Allergies: Does It Help?
| Allergy Type | Can Bone Broth Help? ✅/❌ | Why or Why Not? |
|---|---|---|
| Food Allergies 🥩 | ✅ Yes | Helps repair gut lining, reducing reactions. |
| Environmental Allergies 🌿 | ⚠️ Maybe | Provides immune support, but doesn’t eliminate allergens. |
| Skin & Coat Sensitivities ✨ | ✅ Yes | Collagen & amino acids can promote healing. |
👉 Expert Tip: If allergies persist, work with a vet to identify triggers—bone broth should complement, not replace, allergy treatments.
💬 Comment 13: “Can I use bone broth as a natural remedy for my cat’s cold?”
Yes, bone broth can be a comforting and beneficial supplement for cats experiencing colds, as it provides warmth, hydration, and mild immune support. However, it is not a direct cure for feline respiratory infections.
🤒 Bone Broth for Sick Cats: What It Helps With
| Cold Symptom | Does Bone Broth Help? ✅/❌ | How It Works 🏥 |
|---|---|---|
| Sneezing & Congestion 🤧 | ✅ Yes | Warm broth loosens mucus & encourages drinking. |
| Loss of Appetite 🍽️ | ✅ Yes | The savory aroma stimulates interest in food. |
| Dehydration 💧 | ✅ Yes | Provides electrolytes & hydration when drinking is difficult. |
👉 Expert Tip: Serve warm, not hot, to enhance scent appeal for congested cats struggling to smell food.
💬 Comment 14: “How do I introduce bone broth to my cat’s diet?”
Introducing bone broth slowly and carefully ensures that your cat adapts without digestive upset.
🐾 Step-by-Step Guide to Introducing Bone Broth
| Step | What to Do ✅ | Why It Matters 🧐 |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1: Start Small 🥄 | Add 1 tsp to food or serve separately. | Prevents stomach upset from sudden dietary changes. |
| Step 2: Observe Reactions 👀 | Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, or reluctance. | Ensures your cat tolerates the broth. |
| Step 3: Increase Gradually 📈 | Increase to 1-2 tbsp per day over a week. | Allows the gut to adjust to new nutrients. |
👉 Expert Tip: Cats that are hesitant to try new foods may respond better if bone broth is mixed with a favorite wet food.
💬 Comment 15: “Can bone broth help my cat gain weight?”
Bone broth alone is not a high-calorie food, but it can support weight gain by stimulating appetite and improving digestion. If your cat is underweight due to illness, age, or stress, adding bone broth to their meals may encourage more consistent eating and help nutrient absorption.
⚖️ How Bone Broth Can Support Weight Gain in Cats
| Factor | Why It Helps 🧐 | How to Use It ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Appetite Boost 🍽️ | Warm broth enhances food aroma, encouraging eating. | Pour 1-2 tbsp over wet or dry food. |
| Digestive Support 🦠 | Gelatin soothes the gut, improving nutrient absorption. | Serve before meals to prep digestion. |
| Hydration & Energy 💧 | Keeps the cat hydrated, preventing fatigue. | Offer separately as a treat between meals. |
👉 Expert Tip: To promote healthy weight gain, combine bone broth with nutrient-dense wet food or high-calorie supplements recommended by your vet.
💬 Comment 16: “Is bone broth safe for diabetic cats?”
Yes, but with caution. Bone broth is low in carbohydrates, making it generally safe for diabetic cats. However, it should not replace balanced diabetic-friendly meals, and store-bought versions must be free from added sugars or starches.
🩸 Bone Broth for Diabetic Cats: Pros & Cons
| Factor | Benefit ✅ or Concern ❌ | Why It Matters 🧐 |
|---|---|---|
| Carbohydrate-Free 🍗 | ✅ Safe | Bone broth does not raise blood sugar levels. |
| Hydration Support 💧 | ✅ Helps | Encourages fluid intake, crucial for diabetic cats. |
| High Sodium in Store-Bought ❌ | ⚠️ Risky | Can cause blood pressure spikes—always choose low-sodium versions. |
| Moderation Needed 📏 | ⚠️ Important | Excess broth may disrupt electrolyte balance. |
👉 Expert Tip: Always consult your vet before introducing new foods to a diabetic cat’s diet, and avoid any broth with additives that could impact glucose levels.
💬 Comment 17: “Can I give my cat bone broth if they have pancreatitis?”
Yes, but only if properly prepared. Bone broth can be beneficial for pancreatitis due to its easy digestibility and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it must be low-fat, as excessive fat content can trigger flare-ups.
🔥 Bone Broth & Pancreatitis: Safe or Risky?
| Factor | Recommendation ✅/❌ | Why It Matters 🧐 |
|---|---|---|
| Fat Content 🛢️ | ❌ Avoid high-fat broths | Fat can aggravate pancreatic inflammation. |
| Gelatin & Amino Acids 🦠 | ✅ Helps digestion | Supports gut repair & reduces inflammation. |
| Serving Size 📏 | ✅ Small amounts only | Too much can overwhelm a sensitive pancreas. |
👉 Expert Tip: For cats with pancreatitis, use lean protein sources (chicken/turkey) and remove ALL fat from the broth before serving.
💬 Comment 18: “What’s the best way to serve bone broth to a picky cat?”
Some cats are hesitant to try new foods, especially if they are accustomed to dry kibble or specific flavors. If your cat turns up their nose at bone broth, try these methods to increase acceptance.
🐾 Tricks to Get a Picky Cat to Try Bone Broth
| Method | Why It Works ✅ | How to Do It 🥄 |
|---|---|---|
| Warm It Slightly 🔥 | Enhances aroma and palatability. | Heat for a few seconds (lukewarm, not hot). |
| Mix with Favorite Food 🍗 | Reduces unfamiliar taste. | Add a few drops into wet food. |
| Use a Syringe (Without Needle) 💉 | Helps introduce new flavors gradually. | Offer tiny amounts directly into the mouth. |
| Dip Their Favorite Treat In It 🦴 | Encourages licking and curiosity. | Use freeze-dried meat or kibble. |
👉 Expert Tip: Start with micro-portions (a few drops on their paw)—many cats will instinctively lick it off, gradually getting used to the taste.
💬 Comment 19: “Does bone broth help cats with stress or anxiety?”
Yes, bone broth contains glycine, an amino acid that may promote relaxation. While not a replacement for behavioral training or medical intervention, it can support overall well-being in anxious cats.
😺 Bone Broth & Stress Relief: How It Helps
| Stress Trigger | How Bone Broth May Help ✅ | Additional Tips 🏡 |
|---|---|---|
| New Environment 🏠 | Warm broth can act as a comforting, familiar scent. | Pair with calming pheromone diffusers. |
| Vet Visits & Travel 🚗 | Encourages hydration & relaxation before stressful events. | Offer broth before and after travel. |
| Separation Anxiety 💔 | Keeps hydration levels up when cats refuse food. | Use alongside interactive toys or cat TV. |
👉 Expert Tip: Serve warm broth before bedtime to create a relaxing routine for anxious cats.
💬 Comment 20: “Can I give my pregnant or nursing cat bone broth?”
Yes! Pregnant and nursing cats have higher nutritional needs, and bone broth can provide additional hydration and minerals to support their increased caloric demands.
🐾 Bone Broth for Pregnant & Nursing Cats: Benefits & Cautions
| Factor | Why It’s Helpful ✅ | Precautions ⚠️ |
|---|---|---|
| Hydration & Electrolytes 💧 | Keeps nursing mothers well-hydrated. | Ensure broth is low in sodium. |
| Extra Collagen & Nutrients 🦴 | Supports joint health & postpartum recovery. | Must be free of spices and additives. |
| Encourages Eating 🍽️ | Helps if appetite decreases during pregnancy. | Introduce gradually to avoid stomach upset. |
👉 Expert Tip: Use bone broth as a meal topper to increase calorie intake for a nursing cat, but always balance with a high-protein diet.