The Thai cat, also known as the traditional or “old-style” Siamese, has a rounder head and sturdier body than the modern Siamese, but the same striking colorpoint coat, blue eyes and talkative, people-loving personality. Here’s how to feed a Thai kitten and adult.
Does a Thai Cat Need Special Food?
No cat breed needs a special food to be healthy. Like any cat, a Thai cat needs a complete and balanced food (labeled as meeting AAFCO nutrient profiles in the US, or as a “complete” food under FEDIAF guidelines in the UK) that suits its age, weight, activity and health. Some brands make breed-specific foods, and they can be a convenient choice, but a good-quality complete food for the right life stage works just as well. Thai cats are active and athletic and generally do well on a food rich in good-quality animal protein.
Feeding a Thai Kitten
Thai kittens are lively and curious and need a complete kitten food rich in protein and energy, offered as several small meals a day.
- when you bring your kitten home, keep feeding the food it ate at the breeder or shelter for the first week or two, then switch gradually;
- feed a complete kitten food (or an “all life stages” food) until about 12 months old;
- kittens under 6 months usually need three to four meals a day; from 6 months, two to three meals a day is usually enough;
- always provide fresh water;
- don’t give cow’s milk, which can cause diarrhea.
Read more about feeding a kitten.
Feeding an Adult Thai Cat
Adult Thai cats are usually active and lean, but neutered indoor cats can still gain weight. Thais are very social and may eat less when left alone for long periods or when stressed. Read more: how to destress a cat.
- feed measured portions, using the feeding guide on the pack as a starting point, and adjust to keep your cat at a healthy weight (you should be able to feel the ribs easily);
- include some wet food every day to help with hydration and urinary health;
- keep treats to no more than 10% of daily calories;
- weigh your cat regularly and see your vet for an annual checkup;
- if your cat has been spayed or neutered, its calorie needs will be lower. Read more about feeding a spayed cat and a neutered male cat.
Health Issues and Diet
- Dental disease, which is common in Siamese-type cats. Brush your cat’s teeth regularly. Read more about gingivitis in cats.
- Pica (chewing or eating fabric and other non-food items), which is seen more often in Siamese-type breeds. Talk to your vet if your cat eats wool, fabric or plastic, as it can cause blockages.
- Obesity in less active cats.
If your cat has a health condition, your vet may recommend a specific or prescription diet. Don’t give supplements or change to a prescription diet without your vet’s advice, and see your vet if your cat’s appetite, weight, thirst, stools or coat change.
What About Homemade Food?
Homemade diets are very difficult to balance and are often missing essential nutrients, such as taurine and calcium. If you want to feed homemade food, use a recipe formulated by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. Never feed your cat foods that are toxic to cats. Read more: foods cats should never eat.
Read more about the Thai cat breed and what to feed a cat.
