Yes, it is healthy for them not to be free fed. I've been doing this for several years. I was forced to because some of my cats are pigs and they'll eat all of the food. I now have 6 cats again so I have to make sure that everyone gets their fair share of food. They get fed 2 small meals in the morning and 2 in the evening. I wish I could just feed them 2 times a day but it just doesn't work. They're also on a grain free diet which is good for them too and it helps to control their weight. You'll find that your cats will be more active if they don't over eat. Good luck.