How Much 10 lb Cat Food Should You Use Each Day?
Got a 10 lb bag of dry cat food and wonder how long it will last? The answer depends on your cat’s size, age, activity level, and the brand’s calorie count. Let’s break it down so you can plan meals without guessing.
First, check the bag for calories per cup. Most dry foods list something like 300 kcal per cup. Knowing the calories helps you match the amount to your cat’s daily needs.
Calculate Your Cat’s Daily Calorie Goal
For an average adult cat weighing 8‑10 lb, the typical range is 200‑250 kcal per day. If your cat is a kitten, a senior, or very active, adjust up or down by about 20 %.
Example: A 9‑lb indoor cat needs roughly 220 kcal daily. If the food provides 300 kcal per cup, you’d feed about ¾ cup (0.75 cup) each day.
Turn Cups Into Bag Life
Now convert that daily cup amount into weeks or months. One 10 lb bag holds roughly 80 cups (10 lb ÷ 0.125 lb per cup). Divide 80 cups by your daily cup amount.
Using the 0.75‑cup example: 80 cups ÷ 0.75 cup = about 107 days, or just over 3.5 months. That’s the rough lifespan of the bag if you feed the same cat every day.
If you have more than one cat, simply multiply the daily cup amount by the number of cats. Two cats each needing 0.75 cup would use 1.5 cup daily, cutting the bag’s life in half.
Don’t forget to factor in treats and wet food. Treats add extra calories, so you may need to reduce the dry portion a bit. Wet food typically has fewer calories per ounce, so you can safely add a small can without overfeeding.
When you change brands, re‑check the calorie content. Some premium foods pack more calories per cup, meaning you’ll use less. Always use the numbers on the bag rather than guessing.
Keep an eye on your cat’s weight. If you notice a few pounds gain or loss over a month, adjust the portion size by about 10 % and monitor again. Small tweaks keep your cat at a healthy weight.
Finally, store the bag properly. Seal it airtight and keep it in a cool, dry place. Fresh food stays tasty longer, and your cat will eat the right amount without waste.
Use these steps whenever you buy a new 10 lb bag, and you’ll never run out unexpectedly or overfeed your furry friend.

How Much Wet Food Does a 10 lb Cat Really Need? Daily Feeding Tips & Guide
Discover how much wet food a 10 lb cat needs daily, tips on portion control, and why the right amount matters for your feline’s health.
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