Ajanta wrote:
1. Is dry food better or wet food, or some kind of rotation?

Wet food is *always* better than dry food. Cats are carnivores, there is
no reason to feed them corn or rice. Read the ingredients list and judge
for yourself.

2. We can't afford to go too premium but also don't want to feed her
junk food that's bad for her. Are there any "best value" brands to look
for? What kind of stores are best?

You will find the lowest prices at the big chain stores (Petsmart,
Petco). From the brands sold there, the best is Nutro. Look for stuff
without by-products and with meats at the top of the ingredients list.
If a grain is one of the top 3 ingredients, don't buy it.

3. If she doesn't finish the food, can the left-overs remain in the
bowl to be eaten later, or should they be discarded?

Canned food will go bad eventually, it depends on the weather. I feed
my crew canned food twice a day, if there are any leftovers by the time
of the next feeding, I toss them.

4. In case of canned food, if we don't use the entire can, can the
unused portion be refrigerated and used next day? Should it be given
cold, or microwaved?

Most cats prefer their food at room or body temperature, but some will
eat it cold. If she won't eat it cold, try warming it a bit by taking it
out a couple of hours before feeding. I would avoid the microwave, since
it produces very uneven results (some parts of the food will be too hot,
some cold).

5. Do cats like to eat at a definite spot, from a fixed bowl, etc?

Yes, cats are routine loving critters and most prefer to eat on the same
spot every day. Avoid plastic dishes, metal and ceramic are best.
Instead of buying overpriced cat bowls, buy regular people dessert
plates at Target, they're cheaper.

As you can see, we know nothing. All pointers would be greatly
appreciated.

It's great that you've decided to adopt a cat. They are wonderful
companions. Please do keep coming with questions and comments, we're
here to help.


--
Victor M. Martinez
Owned and operated by the Fantastic Seven (TM)
Send your spam he
Email me he