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Upgrading Pet Care: The Best Vitamins For Your Cats
Caring for a cat requires more than just providing food, water, and love. While a well-balanced diet is essential, supplements can play a key role in ensuring long-term health and wellness for your feline friend. In the Philippines, where environmental factors and dietary access can vary, it is important to know which supplements are beneficial for cats and how they can enhance their overall well-being. Drawing insights from "The Top 10 Supplements to Give to Your Cat for Long-Term Health" from the MeowiJuana website, let us explore the most beneficial vitamins and supplements for cats, highlighting their specific advantages.
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Boosting Skin, Coat, and Joint Health
Omega-3 fatty acids are considered vital for maintaining the health of your cat's skin and coat. These healthy fats help keep your cat's skin moist, reduce inflammation, and prevent conditions such as dry skin or dandruff, which is particularly important for cats living in tropical climates like the Philippines. Omega-3 fatty acids also support joint health, reduce the risk of heart disease, and promote overall wellness. According to MeowiJuana, they are found naturally in fish oil supplements or in foods like tuna and salmon, making them easy to incorporate into your cat's diet.
Given the Philippines' access to fresh seafood, particularly tuna, many cat owners can introduce these beneficial fats by adding small amounts of fish to their cat's meals. However, if fresh fish is not always available, fish oil supplements can provide a consistent source of Omega-3s.
2. Probiotics: Maintaining Digestive Health
Cats, like humans, rely on a balanced gut flora to maintain digestive health. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that promote a healthy gut by balancing the good bacteria. Probiotic supplements can be particularly beneficial for cats experiencing digestive issues such as diarrhea, constipation, or poor nutrient absorption.
In the MeowiJuana article, it is noted that probiotics support the immune system by improving gut health. This is especially relevant in the Philippines, where changing food sources or environmental factors like high humidity may disrupt a cat's digestive system. Adding probiotic supplements to your cat's diet is an excellent way to ensure that their gut remains balanced and healthy, regardless of external conditions.
3. Vitamin B Complex: Supporting Energy and Skin Health
B vitamins play several crucial roles in your cat's body, including supporting brain function, energy production, and maintaining a healthy skin and coat. While many cat food contain B vitamins, a supplement can ensure your cat is receiving the optimal amount for their needs.
Vitamin B supplements are especially important for cats in tropical environments, as their skin may be more prone to dryness and other issues due to the heat and humidity. According to the MeowiJuana article, the B vitamin complex helps improve skin health and boost overall vitality, ensuring your cat maintains their energy levels and looks their best. Vitamin B supplements can be found in various forms, including treats and powders, making them easy to integrate into your cat's regular diet.
4. Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Enhancing Joint Health in Older Cats
As cats age, they often experience joint stiffness and mobility issues, which can be exacerbated by the climate and terrain in certain parts of the Philippines. Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements are commonly used to promote joint health and reduce discomfort in aging cats.
MeowiJuana highlights the benefits of these supplements, noting that they support cartilage repair and keep joints lubricated, enabling older cats to remain active and comfortable. Glucosamine and chondroitin can be found in various commercial pet supplements, but in the Philippines, some traditional foods, like chicken feet, which contain natural sources of these compounds, can also be offered to pets, with vet approval, of course.
5. Milk Thistle: Promoting Liver Health
Cats are prone to liver disease, which can be caused by medications, toxins, or infections. Milk thistle, a plant-based supplement, supports liver function and helps protect the liver from damage. This is especially crucial for cats on long-term medications or those exposed to environmental pollutants.
MeowiJuana mentions that milk thistle can be particularly helpful for cats in preventing liver issues, which are common in aging or medicated cats. As the Philippines is home to various environmental factors, including pollution in urban areas, milk thistle supplements can provide additional protection for cats in such settings. It is available in capsule form and can be easily mixed with your cat's food.
6. Digestive Enzymes: Assisting Nutrient Absorption
Some cats may struggle to produce enough digestive enzymes, which are necessary to break down food and absorb nutrients efficiently. Digestive enzyme supplements, as discussed in the MeowiJuana article, can help improve digestion, making it easier for cats to absorb essential nutrients from their food. This is especially relevant for cats with sensitive stomachs or those that experience frequent digestive upset.
Digestive enzymes are particularly useful for cats in the Philippines, where dietary variety can sometimes lead to food sensitivities or digestive disruptions. By supplementing with digestive enzymes, cat owners can ensure that their pets are getting the most out of their meals, improving their overall health and well-being.
7. Taurine: Essential for Heart and Eye Health
Taurine, an amino acid, is essential for maintaining your cat's heart and eye health. A deficiency in taurine can lead to serious health issues, including heart disease and vision problems, which is why it is vital to ensure your cat receives enough taurine through their diet or supplements.
According to the MeowiJuana article, taurine is found in many commercial cat food, but a supplement may be beneficial for cats with preexisting heart or eye condition. Taurine supplements are particularly useful in the Philippines, where some homemade cat diets might lack the necessary amounts of this critical amino acid.
8. Coenzyme Q10: Supporting Aging Cats
As cats age, their bodies produce less Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), an antioxidant that supports energy production and heart health. For older cats, especially those showing signs of heart issues or decreased energy, a CoQ10 supplement can help boost overall vitality and protect against age-related diseases.
MeowiJuana emphasizes the role of CoQ10 in keeping older cats healthy, especially those at risk of heart disease. In a tropical country like the Philippines, where heat can exacerbate health conditions, CoQ10 may be particularly valuable in maintaining energy levels and heart function in aging cats.
9. Lysine: Strengthening the Immune System
Lysine is another essential amino acid, known for its immune-boosting properties, particularly in cats with feline herpesvirus. Cats infected with herpesvirus can suffer from recurring respiratory symptoms and eye infections, but lysine supplements can help reduce the frequency and severity of these flare-ups.
The MeowiJuana article stresses that lysine is an effective supplement for boosting the immune system, making it especially helpful in the Philippines, where exposure to different viruses and bacteria is common in outdoor or free-roaming cats. Lysine supplements can be found in powder or gel form and are easily mixed with food or treats.
10. Cranberry: Promoting Urinary Tract Health
Just like in humans, cranberries can help support urinary tract health in cats. The compounds found in cranberries prevent harmful bacteria from adhering to the bladder walls, reducing the likelihood of infections. This is particularly important for cats prone to urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can be caused by a variety of factors, including diet, hydration levels, and environmental stress.
MeowiJuana suggests cranberry supplements as a natural way to protect against UTIs, which are relatively common in cats. In the Philippines, where the warm climate can contribute to dehydration, ensuring your cat receives adequate urinary support is critical. Cranberry supplements are available in various forms, including capsules and powders, making them easy to administer.
About the Author: Mariana Burgos is a freelance artist, writer, and tutor. She has been a solo parent for 17 years now because she is the wife of Jonas Burgos, a Filipino desaparecido. She and her daughter are animal lovers and are active in advocating not only human rights but the rights of animals as well.
The 11 Best Cat Foods To Keep Your Pet Happy And Healthy
What you feed your cat is one of the most important investments you can make into their health and happiness. Because felines have unique dietary needs, choosing one of the best cat foods is essential for their overall well-being. Our top pick overall, Orijen's Original Cat, is rich in high-quality animal proteins and other nutrients, providing a balanced option for cats at every stage of life.
Some of our favorite high-quality cat foods come from Open Farm, Orijen and Tiki Cat.
Illustration: Forbes / Image: RetailersCompared to dogs, "cats are strict carnivores and have higher protein needs," says veterinarian Dr. Lindsay Butzer, DVM. On top of high-quality animal proteins, she adds, they also "need to have the nutrients in their food that they cannot derive themselves, such as taurine, vitamin A, arginine and arachidonic acid." When shopping, you want to consider factors like your cat's age, dental health and hydration needs, as well as whether dry or wet cat food is best for them. Whereas food can be easier for kittens and seniors to chew (and provides added moisture), dry food is often more convenient and can help with keeping their teeth clean. From our top pick overall to more tailored options, our guide to the best cat food covers a range of needs to help you find the right fit for your feline friend.
Type: DryLife stage: All life stagesCalories: 463 kcal/cup
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Orijen Original Cat earns our top spot because it has a protein-packed recipe that aims to give your cat a diet closer to what they'd naturally eat. The first 10 ingredients are animal proteins—far more than most cat foods on the market—including chicken, turkey, whole herring and salmon. Orijen's "WholePrey" approach means they use all parts of the animal in their food, like the organs, meat and bones, to deliver a more complete nutritional profile. This helps your cat get a variety of nutrients that support everything from digestion to a shiny coat. Plus, the freeze-dried liver coating adds a raw flavor cats can't seem to resist, making it an excellent option for even the pickiest eaters.
Amazon
Hill's Science Diet Adult Dry Cat Food
Type: DryLife stage: Adults ages 1–6Calories: 502 kcal/cup
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Many veterinarians recommend Hill's Science Diet as a high-quality pet food brand, and its dry cat food is highly rated among pet owners, as well. The kibble is made from natural, high-quality ingredients and free from artificial colors, flavors or preservatives, and it's specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of cats between the ages of one and six. The dry food contains omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health, as well as vitamins and antioxidants for a healthy immune system. Best of all, most cat owners say their pets love the taste of the kibble.
Type: DryLife stage: All life stagesCalories: 470 kcal/cup
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Open Farm Wild-Caught Salmon brings a thoughtful approach to dry cat food, combining the highest quality nutrition with sustainable practices. The main ingredient is wild Pacific salmon, which delivers cats a natural source of Omega-3 fatty acids that support skin and coat health. This recipe also includes ocean whitefish and herring, adding even more high-quality protein that means your cat is getting what they need for muscle maintenance and overall wellness. Beyond protein, Open Farm's formula features ingredients like pumpkin and dandelion greens, which are rich in fiber and can help with digestion and support urinary health. Unlike many dry foods, it doesn't rely on fillers or artificial additives, so your cat is getting the nutrients they need in every bite—and you're getting more for your money. Plus, Open Farm's commitment to transparency means you know exactly what's going into your cat's bowl.
Type: WetLife stage: AdultCalories: 90 kcal/3-ounce can
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Another pick from Orijen, this wet food stands out for its impressive list of animal-based ingredients. With fresh tuna, salmon, chicken liver and sardine among the first ingredients, it gives your cat high-quality animal protein that closely matches what they would naturally eat in the wild. The addition of beef and fish bone broth boosts flavor and also helps keep your cat hydrated—an important consideration, especially if you struggle to get them to drink water. This formula goes beyond the basics, delivering a balanced meal that caters to your cat's natural carnivorous instincts and doesn't have any unnecessary fillers like peas, lentils or gums. It's a great pick if you're looking for a wet food that prioritizes quality ingredients while supporting your cat's hydration.
Type: WetLife stage: KittenCalories: 124 kcal/3-ounce can
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Feeding a kitten means prioritizing their growth, both physically and mentally. Weruva's Kitten Chicken Breast Formula does just that, using real chicken breast as a high-quality protein source that's easy for young cats to digest. This higher-calorie, kitten-specific option is packed with the essential nutrients kittens need during this critical stage of development, helping to build strong muscles and support overall health. The smooth pâté texture is gentle on tiny teeth and sensitive stomachs, making it a great choice for kittens who might have trouble chewing dry kibble. Wet food like this also offers the added benefit of keeping your kitten hydrated, which is especially important as they grow. With a simple ingredient list free of grains, gluten and artificial additives, it reduces the chances of digestive issues and helps your kitten get off on the right paw.
Amazon
IAMS ProActive Health Adult Indoor Weight Control & Hairball Care
Type: DryLife stage: AdultCalories: 302 kcal/cup
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If your cat is overweight, you may want to switch to a food like the IAMS ProActive Health Indoor Weight Control & Hairball Care. This dry food is lower in calories than many other dry foods, helping your cat to lose weight, and it's also formulated with L-carnitine, which helps burn fat and support a healthy metabolism. The kibble is also well-suited for cats who have problems with hairballs—it includes a fiber blend with beet pulp to promote healthy digestion and stop hairballs from forming. Plus, the food is free of artificial preservatives, synthetic dyes and wheat.
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Tiki Cat Luau Wild Salmon Recipe
Type: WetLife stage: AdultCalories: 59 kcal/2.8-ounce can
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If your cat has a sensitive stomach, the Tiki Cat Luau Wild Salmon Recipe is a great option. Made with wild-caught Alaskan salmon as the first ingredient, it focuses on providing high-quality protein without grains, gluten, or unnecessary fillers that might cause irritation. The single protein source is typically easier on the digestive system, reducing the risk of an upset stomach. And the consomme-based formula adds much-needed moisture to keep them hydrated and support urinary health. When introducing a new food, especially for sensitive cats, our experts agree it's best to take it slow. Start by mixing a small amount of Tiki Cat Luau with their current food and gradually increasing the ratio. This method helps your cat adjust to the new flavors and textures while being gentle on their stomach.
Type: DryLife stage: AdultCalories: 384 kcal/cup
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This is another well-loved pick from Tiki Cat that features a high-protein recipe designed specifically for indoor cats. Made with real chicken and turkey, it provides the quality animal protein your cat needs to stay active and satisfied. What sets this formula apart is its attention to indoor cats' unique needs: it's lower in calories to help prevent weight gain and it's free from grains, fillers and artificial additives. Plus, it includes pumpkin, which adds a boost of fiber to support digestion. (This is especially helpful for indoor cats since they tend to groom more often; extra fiber can help move hair through the digestive system.) Overall, this formula is designed to keep your indoor cat feeling full and energized, with added vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support vision, brain function and a strong immune system. If you're looking for a kibble that covers all the bases while being gentle on your cat's digestive system, this is a solid choice.
Type: DryLife stage: AdultCalories: 379 kcal/cup
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Protein is an important source of energy for cats, and high-protein foods can be beneficial for highly active cats or older animals. CRAVE Grain-Free High Protein Dry Cat Food has a higher-than-average crude protein content of 40%, and it comes in three different flavors that use chicken, salmon and fish as sources of protein. This dry food is a grain-free formula, and it doesn't contain any corn, wheat or soy. It's also free from artificial colors, flavors and preservatives, and the brand claims it will support a lean, healthy body and high energy levels.
Illustration: Forbes / Image: Retailers
Type: FreshLife stage: AdultCalories: 200 kcal/5-ounce packet
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Smalls Fresh Ground Bird is a fresh food packed with incredibly high-quality animal protein, making it a great choice for senior cats. With at least 80% of its content coming from turkey and turkey liver, it contains the protein that older cats need to maintain muscle mass and keep up their overall health. The formula is also rich in moisture, which helps keep senior cats hydrated—something that's especially important as they age. Unlike dry kibble, this fresh food is softer and more palatable for aging cats who may have dental issues or stomach sensitivities.
It's also worth noting that the minimally processed formula uses human-grade ingredients and skips the fillers and preservatives found in many other cat foods. According to feline nutrition experts Jae Kennedy and Adrienne Lefebvre, switching to a fresh diet like this can make a noticeable difference in a cat's overall health, potentially even extending their lifespan.
Type: DryLife stage: AdultCalories: 362 kcal/cup
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If your cat has gastrointestinal problems, your veterinarian may want them to eat a high-fiber food. The Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Fiber Response is a top choice in these cases, but it is a prescription product, so you'll need veterinary approval to purchase it.
This dry food contains a maximum of 4.7% crude fiber, and it's made with a blend of both soluble and insoluble fibers that helps move stool through your cat's GI tract. The kibble also contains highly digestible ingredients and prebiotics, but keep in mind that it's very expensive due to its specialized formula.
Why Trust Forbes VettedAt Forbes Vetted, our team of home editors spends countless hours researching and testing pet products to bring you well-rounded and trusted recommendations. From the best cat food delivery services to the best self-cleaning litter boxes, we cover a wide range of topics to help you make informed decisions for your pets.
To find the best cat food, we considered a variety of factors to ensure we recommend nutritious and high-quality options for cats at different life stages and with various dietary needs. Here's what we looked into:
The easiest way to ensure cat food is suitable for the nutritional needs of your pet is to look for a nutritional adequacy statement on the packaging. Your pet's primary food should meet nutritional standards set by the AAFCO, and the statement should indicate that the food is a "complete" and "balanced" source of nutrition for your pet's current life stage, which could be growth (kitten), maintenance (adult), or senior.
Food TypeCat food is available in both wet and dry formulas, and there are benefits to each type. "Dry cat food is convenient and can help maintain dental health by reducing tartar buildup," explains Dr. Gabrielle Fadl, DVM, director of primary care at Bond Vet. "However, it's lower in moisture, which can be a concern for cats prone to urinary issues. Some dry foods can also have a higher carbohydrate content."
"Wet cat food has a higher moisture content, which can help prevent urinary tract issues and promote hydration," she says. "It's a good choice for cats prone to urinary problems or those who don't drink much water." Wet food is often more appealing to picky eaters, as well.
IngredientsBecause cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet requires nutrients only found in meat, it's important to select a cat food that's made using animal protein. "Cats get taurine from eating animal-based protein or meat," explains Dr. Butzer. "Since they need taurine, a cat cannot be vegetarian unless they have taurine supplemented. They need to have at least 25% of their diet protein, but ideally, they do better with 40%."
Additionally, "try to avoid cat foods with excessive fillers like corn, wheat or soy," adds Dr. Fadl, noting that cats derive little nutritional benefit from these ingredients. "Look for foods that are free from artificial colors, flavors and preservatives."
CaloriesCats can quickly become overweight if they eat too many calories, so it's important to understand your pet's caloric needs and select a food accordingly.
"A house cat with little activity needs around 60 calories per kilogram per day," explains Dr. Butzer. "A senior cat needs about 45 calories per kg per day. An active young kitten can comfortably eat and grow at 70 calories per kg per day, and then outdoor cats can have more than 70 calories per kg per day if they are out roaming and playing all day."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)What Is The Best Cat Food For Indoor Cats?
Indoor cats are more prone to being overweight than outdoor cats, as they're generally less active, so it's a good idea to look for a lower-calorie food if your cat solely lives indoors. "Avoiding obesity in indoor cats will keep your cat living longer and prevent them from developing diabetes, which is very easy for cats to develop," explains Dr. Butzer. Our top pick overall is the Tiki Cat Born Carnivore Indoor Health Chicken & Turkey Meal, which is low in calories but high in protein and fiber.
Do Cats Do Better With Dry Or Wet Food?
Cats can thrive on both dry and wet food, but the best option really depends on their individual needs and habits. "Cats are desert animals and have a low thirst drive by nature—yet moisture is so important for their overall health," explain feline nutrition experts Jae Kennedy and Adrienne Lefebvre. "Wet food provides the moisture they need and helps them avoid dehydration-related illnesses, like urinary and kidney problems." Wet food is particularly beneficial for cats that don't drink much water, because it offers extra hydration that dry kibble can't provide.
However, some cats simply prefer dry food. "Some cats only want to eat kibble and they won't eat the wet food," says Dr. Lindsay Butzer, DVM. "If that's the case, I tell people not to waste their money on the wet food and give them their kibble. Just always have running water out for them in a water fountain or have water in a bowl—whichever entices them to drink more."
In many cases, a mix of both wet and dry food is ideal because it provides the benefits of hydration from wet food and the convenience and dental health support of dry kibble. It ultimately comes down to your cat's preferences, dietary needs and how well they stay hydrated on their own.
Why Do Vets Not Like Grain-Free Cat Food?
There have recently been some links between grain-free diets and heart problems in cats, so these diets may not be the best option for your pet unless medically necessary.
"There has been controversy surrounding grain-free cat food," explains Dr. Fadl. "Some cats may have grain allergies, and grain-free options can be beneficial for them. However, recent concerns have arisen regarding a potential link between grain-free diets and heart disease in some cats. Consult with your veterinarian to make an informed decision, as grain-free diets may not be necessary for all cats."
The Best Wet Cat Foods For Your Pet's Needs
When shopping for the best wet cat food for your cat, it's important to consider not only factors like the ingredients in the food, but also whether that food is a good fit for your cat's needs. With options available for different life stages, like kittens and senior cats, as well as grain-free foods and recipes designed specifically for cats with sensitive stomachs, you'll have plenty of foods to choose from. Here are my top picks for the best wet cat foods, based on veterinary advice.
Our top picks for the best wet cat foods Best wet cat foods for senior cats: Tiki Cat Senior Mousse with Chicken & Pumpkin in Broth
Tiki Cat Senior Mousse with Chicken & Pumpkin in Broth
Tiki Cat Senior Mousse features a smooth texture and a broth, so it's easier to eat for senior cats who might have dental issues. Protein comes from real chicken, while pumpkin provides fiber to support a senior cat's slower digestion. This grain-free food contains no animal by-products or artificial colors or flavors, and it's available in multiple flavors.
SpecificationsWith its smooth mousse texture and protein from real meat, the Tiki Cat Senior Mousse is designed to appeal to senior cats who might have dental issues or reduced appetites.
Best wet cat foods for sensitive stomachs: Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken & Vegetable Entree Canned Cat Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken & Vegetable Entree Canned Cat Food
The Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin recipe features protein from quality meat sources like chicken and turkey. This recipe is grain-free, ideal for some cats with food sensitivities, and it's designed to be easy to digest. Whole food ingredients like cranberries, fish oil, and spinach provide extra nutrients and fiber, supporting not only digestive health, but skin health, too.
SpecificationsHill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin features whole ingredients, including chicken and turkey, that are selected to be easy for your cat to digest while also supporting your cat's skin health.
Best wet cat foods for weight loss: Blue Buffalo True Solutions Healthy Weight Natural Weight Control Chicken Adult Wet Cat Food
Blue Buffalo True Solutions Healthy Weight Natural Weight Control Chicken Adult Wet Cat Food
The Blue Buffalo True Solutions Healthy Weight Control is designed to help cats achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Protein comes from quality meat sources like chicken and whitefish, and each can contains just 86 calories. Whole fruits and veggies, including potatoes, carrots, cranberries, and green beans also support weight management.
SpecificationsWith just 86 calories per can and a high fiber content to help your cat feel full, the Blue Buffalo True Solutions Healthy Weight Natural Weight Control formula may help your cat achieve and maintain an optimal weight.
Best wet cat food for weight gain: Instinct Original Grain-Free Pate Real Chicken Recipe Wet Canned Cat Food
Instinct Original Grain-Free Pate Real Chicken Recipe Wet Canned Cat Food
The Instinct Original Grain-Free Pate features a high fat content and protein from real meats like chicken and turkey to support your cat's weight gain. It features 131 calories per can and is available in six flavors to help keep meals appealing to your cat. While this food is full of quality ingredients, it's also notably free of ingredients that you want to avoid, like corn, wheat, soy, and artificial colors and preservatives.
SpecificationsWith its high protein and fat content and availability in five flavors, the Instinct Original Grain-Free Pate is designed to be highly appealing to cats and may support weight gain.
Best grain-free wet cat food: Merrick Purrfect Bistro Grain Free Chicken Recipe Pate Wet Cat Food
Merrick Purrfect Bistro Grain Free Chicken Recipe Pate Wet Cat Food
Deboned chicken is the first ingredient in the Merrick Purrfect Bistro Grain Free Chicken Recipe Pate for a high-quality protein source. The recipe features essential vitamins, minerals and taurine for balanced nutrition, but it's free of grains. It also contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, so you'll be feeding your cat nutritious ingredients without any add-ins.
SpecificationsThe Merrick Purrfect Bistro Grain Free Chicken Recipe features deboned chicken as the first ingredient and contains no grains for quality nutrition.
Best natural wet cat food: Raised Right Original Turkey Adult Cat Recipe
Raised Right Original Turkey Adult Cat Recipe
Raised Right Original Turkey Adult Cat Recipe is a low carb diet that was formulated with the help of a veterinarian.. This recipe features plenty of human-grade whole foods like blueberries, carrots, dried organic kelp and flaxseed oil. It's lightly cooked and delivered frozen, so you can stock up on multiple packs. When you're ready to use it, defrost the package, scoop out your cat's portion and then refrigerate the remaining food for up to six days.
SpecificationsThe Raised Right Original Turkey Adult Cat Recipe is crafted with human-grade whole foods and is free of grains, potato, rice, oats, squash, yam or added preservatives, so it's a simple and natural addition to your cat's diet.
Best wet cat food for hairball control: Hill's Science Diet Adult Hairball Control Savory Chicken Entree Canned Wet Cat Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Hairball Control Savory Chicken Entree Canned Wet Cat Food
The Hill's Science Diet Adult Hairball Control Savory Chicken Entree features plenty of fiber to help reduce hairballs. The recipe also features vitamin E and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to support your cat's skin and coat health. Real meat, including chicken and turkey, provides quality protein.
SpecificationsThe Savory Chicken Entree includes fiber to help reduce hairballs, while vitamin E and omega fatty acids support your cat's skin and coat health.
Wet cat food benefitsAccording to Bond Vet, wet food offers many benefits. It has a higher moisture content than dry food, which can help to keep your cat hydrated. Wet food may appeal more to picky eaters, too, so it may be a good choice for many cats. Cats with certain conditions like kidney disease and chronic constipation may also benefit from the moisture content of wet food. If you have questions about whether wet food is right for your kitty, be sure to speak with your veterinarian.
Is wet or dry food better for cats?Bond Vet notes that there are pros and cons to both wet and dry food for cats. Feeding either wet or dry food, or feeding a combination of both can be a healthy and appropriate choice for your cat. When deciding which type of food is best, your cat's age may affect your decision. Young kittens may need wet food to stay comfortable while they're teething, and some senior cats can find wet food more appealing, which can help them to maintain a healthy weight.
How we selected the best wet cat foodIn choosing the best wet cat foods, we carefully looked at the ingredients. We focused on foods with whole, quality ingredients, including protein sources, fruits, and vegetables. We chose foods with high protein content and low carbohydrates, and we also made sure to avoid foods with poor-quality ingredients like artificial fillers, preservatives or colors.
We chose brands with strong reputations for quality, and we also looked for foods that are available in multiple recipes and textures, so you can add variety into your cat's diet or simply try out different flavors to find out what your cat likes the most.
What to look for when choosing the best wet cat foodsThere are many factors to consider when choosing the best wet cat foods. I asked veterinarians what you should look for when comparing foods and deciding on the one that's right for your cat.
Complete and balanced dietAccording to the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, feeding your cat a meat-only diet can cause deficiencies in vitamins, fatty acids and minerals. Feeding a complete and balanced canned food can help you ensure your cat is getting a diet that's high in protein and low in carbohydrates, which can help meet your cat's nutritional needs and even prevent obesity.
Some foods are currently being marketed as food toppers or complements, and these are meant to be fed in addition to a complete and balanced diet. When choosing a wet food that will be your cat's primary diet, look for the "complete and balanced diet" distinction.
Named meat sources and amountsDr. Bethany Hsia, an active mobile veterinarian and co-founder of CodaPet, explains that it's important to look for animal-based protein sources listed as the first few ingredients, which indicates that the food contains a high percentage of those proteins. "Look for specific named meat sources like chicken, turkey, beef, or fish," she says. "Avoid generic terms like meat by-products or animal digest, as these can be lower-quality protein sources."
Carbohydrate contentDr. Alex Crow, a veterinary surgeon and owner of PetHealthGuru, explains that cats have a limited need for carbohydrates in their diet. "Opt for cat food with low carbohydrate content, ideally less than 10%," he advises.
Whole ingredientsDr. Hsia encourages cat owners to check for whole food ingredients, like fruits and vegetables. "These can provide essential vitamins and minerals to support overall health," she explains.
Limited ingredients"Generally, a shorter ingredient list is indicative of higher-quality cat food," says Dr. Crow. "Stay away from products with lengthy ingredient lists or ingredients that are difficult to pronounce."
TaurineTaurine is an amino acid that's essential to your cat's health, according to Lake Michigan Animal Hospital. Taurine supports metabolic processes and impacts the storage of nutrients. A taurine deficiency can lead to health issues like developmental problems, digestion issues and diarrhea, hair loss, diabetes, tooth decay, and even blindness. Look for food that includes taurine to help prevent a deficiency and support your cat's overall health.
Brand reputationIt's also important to consider a brand's reputation when choosing a food. According to Banfield Pet Hospital, a cat food product must meet certain standards to carry the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) logos. The presence of these logos on cat food certifies that the food is safe for your cat, is free of harmful substances, was produced in sanitary conditions, and is accurately labeled.
TextureDr. Crow explains that you may need to try out different foods to determine which wet food texture your cat most enjoys. "Cats can be picky about textures, so it might be necessary to experiment to find the one that your cat prefers," he says. Wet cat food textures include smooth pate, chunky pieces and meat shreds, plus there are a variety of gravies and broths.
Life stageIn addition to choosing a quality cat food, you'll need to make sure that the food is appropriate for your cat's life stage. As cats develop, their nutritional needs change. "Kittens have different nutritional needs compared to adult cats," explains Dr. Hsia. "[If you have a kitten,] it is important to select a food that is specifically formulated for kittens." A wet food for kittens needs to have adequate levels of essential nutrients, including high-quality protein to support the kitten's growth and development.
In contrast, senior cats experience a slower metabolism and digestion. "Wet foods formulated for senior cats often contain lower levels of phosphorus to support kidney health, have added joint support ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin, and have softer textures that can be easier for senior cats to eat," says Dr. Hsia.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) What ingredients should I avoid in wet cat food?Dr. Hsai explains that it's important to avoid generic meat sources like meat by-products or animal digest, since they can be lower quality than specific meat sources like chicken or turkey. "Avoid foods that contain excessive amounts of fillers like corn, wheat, or soy. In addition, avoid artificial additives such as colors, flavors, and preservatives," she says.
How can I introduce a new food to my cat?Transitioning your cat to a new food can cause some stomach upset, so it's important to gradually make that change
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