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The 16 Best Kitten Foods Of 2024, Reviewed With Advice From Vets

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Kittens need an animal-based diet rich in protein and essential nutrients to support their growth and development. When it comes to the best kitten foods, your choices come in all types of textures and recipes, from shreds and chunks in gravy to smooth pâté and crunchy kibbles.

We consulted veterinarians and animal nutritionists to find out what makes a nutritious dry or wet kitten food. To look for in dry and wet foods to meet the nutritional needs of kittens. Then we researched dozens of foods to make our picks for this guide. One of the best overall canned foods is Purina Pro Plan Kitten Salmon and Ocean Fish Entree. It contains high-quality sources of omega fatty acids to support a kitten's growth. We also recommend Wellness Complete Health Kitten Chicken and Chicken Meal Recipe, a dry food with healthy omega fatty acids from salmon oil. All of our picks align with the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutritional standards and the Global Nutrition Guidelines set by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA).

If your kitten can tolerate it, you'll want to feed them a well-rounded mix of wet and dry foods in a variety of flavors and textures to promote food flexibility, says Dr. Deb Zoran, a veterinary nutritionist and professor of small animal clinical sciences at the Texas A&M University School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. Food flexibility makes a big difference when your cat's food is suddenly out of stock, recipes change, or they need a special prescription diet.  

Read more about how Business Insider Reviews tests and researches pet products.

Highlights for the best kitten foods

Best overall wet: Purina Pro Plan Kitten Salmon and Ocean Fish - See at Chewy

Best budget wet: Iams Perfect Portions Healthy Kitten Chicken Recipe - See at Chewy

Best overall dry: Wellness Complete Health Kitten Chicken and Chicken Meal - See at Chewy

Best budget dry: Purina Kitten Chow Naturals Kitten - See at Chewy

Best for sensitive stomachs: Royal Canin Kitten Loaf in Sauce - See at Chewy

Best minced: Hill's Science Diet Kitten Liver and Chicken - See at Chewy

Best flaked: Blue Buffalo Wilderness Flaked Chicken and Trout - See at Chewy

Best chunks in gravy: Hill's Science Diet Kitten Tender Chicken - See at Chewy

Best variety pack: Purina Pro Plan Kitten Variety Pack - See at Chewy

Best wet food overall Purina and Wellness are two brands that make high-quality wet food for kittens. Purina; Wellness/Business Insider

Wet kitten food is the most natural way to keep your little one hydrated while meeting their nutritional needs. These foods contain 75% to 78% moisture, whereas dry foods contain 10% to 12% moisture. "Cats prefer to get their water from their food," says Zoran. Like all of the best cat foods, canned food must meet nutrition requirements set by the AAFCO for the growth (kitten) stage or all life stages, including a minimum of 30% protein and 9% fat on a "dry matter" or moisture-free basis.

Many cat foods are labeled grain-free, but Zoran says grain is a small but natural part of a cat's diet. "The amount of grain in a cat's diet in the wild is the amount of grain that would be in the gastrointestinal tract of whatever [animal] they just ate," she says. The most biologically appropriate diet for a kitten consists of foods high in protein and moisture and low in carbohydrates. Zoran says it's especially important to feed your kitten food from a reputable company that employs a board-certified nutritionist and conducts quality control testing.

Our kitten-friendly picks for the best wet cat food have all the must-have nutritional qualities for growth, including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega fatty acid essential for cognitive growth and development. The best source of DHA is derived from small, cold-water fish in the form of fish oil, whole fish, or fish meal. Plus, Purina's Salmon and Ocean Fish Entree has undergone feeding trials, which are tests based on AAFCO procedures to ensure a food is palatable, digestible, and able to sustain a kitten over time.  

Purina Pro Plan Kitten Salmon and Ocean Fish Entree

Meat protein sources: Salmon, ocean fish, liver, chickenOther standout ingredients: RiceFeeding trials:  YesNutrition breakdown: 54.5% protein, 31.7% fat, 0.5% fiberCalorie count: 101 kcal/3-ounce can

Wellness Complete Health Kitten Chicken Entree

Meat protein sources: Chicken, chicken liver, chicken brothOther standout ingredients: Carrots, cranberries, ground flaxseed, menhaden fish oilFeeding trials: NoNutrition breakdown: 46.7% protein, 37.2% fat, 1% fiberCalorie count: 105 kcal/3-ounce can

Best budget wet food Budget wet food from Iams and Natural Balance will support your kitten's growth. Iams; Amazon/Business Insider

Our experts give high marks to wet kitten food. However, it can be on the pricier side when compared to budget-friendly kibble. While Dr. Bruce Kornreich, a board-certified veterinary cardiologist and director of the Cornell Feline Health Center at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, can't recommend specific brands, he says that high-quality, affordable wet kitten food is on the shelves. Brands may use less expensive ingredients to keep costs down, but that doesn't mean they've sacrificed quality.  

Take byproducts and byproduct meals as an example. They're secondary ingredients from the human food industry that meet the nutritional requirements set by the AAFCO. Kornreich says byproducts and artificial preservatives are paired with negative marketing buzz, but they're not inherently unhealthy for your cat or kitten.

Always look for reputable brands that ensure good quality control, like our recommendations. Our budget wet picks for the best kitten foods meet our criteria for quality nutrition.

Natural Balance Original Ultra for Kittens Chicken Formula

Meat protein sources: Chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver, dried egg productOther standout ingredients: Salmon oil, flaxseed, cranberriesFeeding trials: YesNutrition breakdown: 40% protein, 38.6% fat, 2.3% fiberCalorie count: 110 kcal/3-ounce can

Iams Perfect Portions Healthy Kitten Chicken Recipe

Meat protein sources: Chicken, poultry liver, chicken broth, dried egg productOther standout ingredients: Fish oilFeeding trials: NoNutrition breakdown: 44% protein, 41% fat, 0.4% fiberCalorie count: 90 kcal/2.6-ounce twin pack

Best dry food overall Wellness and Hill's make the best specially formulated dry food for kittens. Wellness; Hill's/Business Insider

Dry food is popular for its affordability, feeding convenience, and ease of storage. It's made via a process called extrusion, which consists of pushing ground-up food materials through a small opening and cooking the extruded kibbles under high pressure.

"Dry food is not the type of food cats would seek out to eat on their own," says Zoran. What makes it enticing to cats and kittens are the liquid fats and proteins that coat the outside of the kibble. Because each brand has its own alluring recipe, this coating could cause a kitten to become habituated to a food when brands, textures, and proteins aren't served in rotation.

Like our wet picks for the best kitten foods, the best dry cat foods should be AAFCO complete and balanced for kittens or all life stages. This ensures the food has the appropriate balance of protein, fat, essential vitamins, and minerals for growth, such as calcium and phosphorus. If a food says "for intermittent feeding," Kornreich says it's not a complete and balanced meal for a cat of any age.   

Wellness Complete Health Kitten Chicken and Chicken Meal Recipe

Meat protein sources: Deboned chicken, chicken mealOther standout ingredients: Oats, barley, rice, flaxseed, salmon oil, cranberriesFeeding trials: NoNutrition breakdown: 40% protein, 17% fat, 4% fiberCalorie count: 383 kcal/cup

Hill's Science Diet Kitten Chicken Recipe

Meat protein sources: Chicken, chicken fat, egg productOther standout ingredients: Brown rice, wheat gluten, oats, wheat, barley, flaxseed, apples, broccoli, carrots, cranberries, peasFeeding trials: YesNutrition breakdown: 33% protein, 19% fat, 3.5% fiberCalorie count: 568 kcal/cup

Best budget dry food For dry kitten food, we recommend recipes from Iams and Purina. Iams; Amazon/Business Insider

Like our budget wet food picks, our recommendations for budget dry foods come from trusted for their quality ingredients and recipes. According to Zoran, reputable companies have been in business long enough to produce trustworthy information about their pet food nutrition and have a record of product quality. "The companies that have just come on the market might be fine, but you have no history to draw from," she says.

Kornreich adds that reputable pet food companies may own their manufacturing plant. "They'll have a tighter ability to control quality," he says. They'll employ a board-certified nutritionist, have an AAFCO statement of nutritional adequacy on their products, and their marketing doesn't disparage other companies.

"I feed a lot of Purina," Zoran says of her multi-cat household. Purina is a longtime leader in pet nutrition and a staple in many households. In addition to owning its manufacturing plants, Purina's on-staff veterinarians help formulate every recipe, all backed by research at the Purina Institute. This budget-friendly brand is conveniently available at your local grocery store along with similarly reputable brands like Iams.

Purina Kitten Chow Naturals

Meat protein sources: Chicken, chicken byproduct meal, beef fatOther standout ingredients: Corn gluten meal, soy flour, ground corn, riceFeeding trials: YesNutrition breakdown: 40% protein, 15% fat, 2.5% fiberCalorie Count: 406 kcal/cup

Iams ProActive Healthy Kitten 

Meat protein sources: Chicken, chicken byproduct meal, chicken fat, dried egg productOther standout ingredients: Ground whole grain corn, ground sorghum, fish oilFeeding trials: NoNutrition breakdown: 33% protein, 21% fat, 3% fiberCalorie count: 484 kcal/cup

Best for sensitive stomachs Royal Canin makes the best kitten foods for sensitive stomachs. Royal Canin/Business Insider

Cats are obligate carnivores because they require animal proteins for essential nutrients. Therefore, animal protein should always be the first ingredient in a cat food. While 30% is the minimum amount of protein required for growth, Zoran says a diet abundant in fat and protein can benefit a kitten's developing gastrointestinal tract and high-energy demands. Reach for foods with a crude protein of 40% on a dry matter basis.

Cats and kittens can be born with sensitivities and allergies to certain ingredients, so always talk to your veterinarian when digestive issues arise. They may recommend a limited ingredient diet (LID) or a prescription hypoallergenic or gastrointestinal recipe. 

Our picks for the best sensitive stomach cat food meet Zoran's nutritional recommendations and have passed feeding trials. Your vet will need to write a prescription for Royal Canin's Gastrointestinal Kitten food.

Royal Canin Kitten Loaf in Sauce

Meat protein sources: Pork byproducts, chicken byproducts, chicken liver, pork liver, chickenOther standout ingredients: Wheat gluten, brewer's rice flour, fish oilFeeding trials: YesNutrition breakdown: 59.4% protein, 21.3% fat, 5.2% fiberCalorie count: 76 kcal/3-ounce can

Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Kitten Ultra Soft Mousse in Sauce

Meat protein sources: Chicken liver, chicken, chicken byproducts, pork byproductsOther standout ingredients: Wheat gluten, modified corn starch, brewer's rice, fish oilFeeding trials: YesNutrition breakdown: 53% protein, 25.3% fat, 6% fiberCalorie count: 137 kcal/5.1-ounce can

Best minced Hill's and Wellness make enticing minced kitten food. Hill's; Wellness/Business Insider

Choosing one of the best kitten foods is individualistic, from a cat's preferred tastes to unique nutritional needs. For this reason, it's helpful to approach feline nutrition with guidance from your vet.

"There will be a difference in what your kitten wants to eat and what they don't want to eat," Zoran says. While a steady rotation of tastes, textures, and brands will keep your kitten food-flexible, they might prefer one texture of food over another. "It's a trial-and-error process," she adds.

Minced wet food is one of several canned food options that add new and enticing textures to a kitten's meal repertoire. Consisting of protein cut into tiny pieces and mixed with broth, minced food introduces kittens to more meaty bites.

Hill's Science Diet Kitten Liver and Chicken Entree

Meat protein sources: Pork liver, pork byproducts, chicken, chicken fat, egg productOther standout ingredients: Corn starch, soybean meal, fish oilFeeding trials: NoNutrition breakdown: 45.6% protein, 29.1% fat, 0.9% fiberCalorie count: 109 kcal/2.9-ounce can

Wellness Core Tiny Tasters Chicken Recipe

Meat protein sources: Boneless chicken, chicken broth, duck, eggs, chicken liverOther standout ingredients: Potato starch, tapioca starch, sunflower oil, salmon oilFeeding trials: NoNutrition breakdown: 40% protein, 19% fat, 4% fiberCalorie count: 51 kcal/1.75-ounce pouch

Best flaked Purina and Blue Buffalo make high-quality flaked wet food for kittens. Purina; Blue Buffalo/Business Insider

Flaked kitten foods are made with long, thin pieces of protein in gravy. Like other wet food picks, these flaked options for kittens are protein-heavy, loaded with moisture, and rich in omega-3 fatty acids for cognitive development.

Kittens and cats are obligate carnivores because they rely on animal-based proteins to provide essential nutrients, including amino acids. Essential amino acids are amino acids that animals cannot synthesize, so they must obtain them through their diets. Taurine is one of 11 essential amino acids felines must get from their diet, and their only source of taurine is animal-based proteins. "If cats don't eat enough meat, they won't get enough taurine," Kornreich says. Along with other essential vitamins and minerals, taurine promotes normal heart function, vision, immune function, and digestion in cats. 

Typically, proteins in kitten foods are supplemented with plant-based ingredients, vitamins, and minerals to meet a kitten's complete nutritional needs. 

Purina Pro Plan Kitten Ocean Whitefish and Tuna Recipe

Meat protein sources: Ocean white fish, fish, liver, meat byproducts, chicken, tunaOther standout ingredients:  Wheat gluten, soy protein concentrateFeeding trials: YesNutrition breakdown: 62.5% protein, 21.3% fat, 1% fiberCalorie count: 113 kcal/3-ounce can

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Chicken and Trout for Kittens

Meat protein sources: Chicken, chicken broth, trout, chicken liver, egg productOther standout ingredients: Potato Feeding trials: NoNutrition breakdown: 47.7% protein, 27.7% fat, 0.6% fiberCalorie count: 90 kcal/3-ounce can

Best chunks in gravy Hill's and Royal Canin chunks-in-gravy recipes are enticing to kittens. Hill's; Royal Canin/Business Insider

Kittens are born without teeth but grow a full set of baby (deciduous) teeth between 3 to 6 weeks of age. By 3 to 6 months, those baby teeth fall out and are replaced with adult teeth. Kittens have all the same types of teeth as humans do, just sharper for their carnivorous diet.

Chunks-in-gravy kitten food is a mix of tender bites of protein and nutritious liquid. Biting into soft chunks is no problem for a kitten with teeth, but smooth pâté might be better suited for their very first bites.

Our recommendations for the best kitten foods below are made from real meat and healthy ingredients like omega fatty acids. Like all the other picks in this guide, they're also AAFCO complete and balanced. Plus, Hills and Royal Canin conduct clinical feeding trials to ensure the palatability and digestibility of their foods.

Hill's Science Diet Kitten Tender Chicken Dinner 

Meat protein sources: Chicken, pork liver, egg whitesOther standout ingredients: Wheat flour, modified rice starch, oat fiber, fish oilFeeding trials: NoNutrition breakdown: 44.2% protein, 21.6% fat, 1.3% fiberCalorie count: 77 kcal/2.8-ounce pouch

Royal Canin Kitten Thin Slices in Gravy

Meat protein sources: Chicken, chicken byproducts, chicken, chicken liver, pork, egg productOther standout ingredients: Wheat gluten, brewers rice flour, fish oilFeeding trials: NoNutrition breakdown:52.8% protein, 19% fat, 2.5% fiberCalorie count:78 kcal/3-ounce can

Best variety pack Purina and Wellness make convenient kitten food variety packs. Amazon; Chewy/Business Insider

Purina and Wellness make convenient kitten food variety packs. When kittens are introduced to new things at a young age, they are more likely to grow into confident, adventurous cats. Those new experiences can start with the tastes and textures in their bowl, and these complete and balanced kitten food variety packs are reliable options.

From chicken and pork to beef to fish, Zoran says there's no wrong choice of protein for a cat. "Find the variety of food your kitten loves, their gastrointestinal tract loves, and their skin loves — that's food," she says.

Purina Pro Plan Kitten Variety Pack 

Chicken and Liver Entree ClassicMeat protein sources: Chicken, liver, fishOther standout ingredients: Rice Feeding trials: Yes Nutrition breakdown: 53% protein, 30.2% fat, 0.5% fiber Calorie count: 99 kcal/3-ounce can

Salmon and Ocean Fish Entree Meat protein sources: Salmon, ocean fish, liver, chickenOther standout ingredients: RiceFeeding trials: YesNutrition breakdown: 54.5% protein, 31.7% protein, 0.5% fiberCalorie count: 101 kcal/3-ounce can

Ocean and Whitefish Tuna Entree FlakedMeat protein sources: Ocean white fish, fish, liver, meat byproducts, chicken, tunaOther standout ingredients:  Wheat gluten, soy protein concentrateFeeding trials: YesNutrition breakdown: 62.5% protein, 21.3% fat, 1% fiberCalorie count: 113 kcal/3-ounce can

Wellness Complete Health Kitten Pate Favorites

Kitten Pâté Chicken EntreeMeat protein sources: Chicken, chicken liver, chicken brothOther standout ingredients: Carrots, cranberries, ground flaxseed, menhaden fish oilFeeding trials: NoNutrition breakdown: 46.7% protein, 37.2% fat, 1% fiberCalorie count: 105 kcal/3-ounce can

Kitten Pâté Whitefish and Tuna EntreeMeat protein sources: Whitefish, chicken, fish broth, tuna, chicken mealOther standout ingredients: Carrots, pumpkin, fish oil, cranberriesFeeding trials: NoNutrition breakdown: 53.1% protein, 25.9% fat, 1.6% fiberCalorie count: 89 kcal/3-ounce can

What to look for in kitten food

When shopping for the best kitten foods, the following criteria are essential to consider. 

AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement: The most basic measure of nutritionally complete cat food is the presence of an AAFCO statement on the label. The AAFCO is a nonprofit organization that defines the standard nutritional requirements for pet food and animal feed. Food with an AAFCO statement for growth or all life stages is guaranteed to be complete and balanced for kittens.

Guaranteed analysis and nutrient profiles: The guaranteed analysis consists of the percentages of protein, fat, and essential nutrients in a food. Food for kittens should have a minimum of 30% protein, 9% fat, and the presence of essential nutrients, including amino acids like taurine, fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins.

To compare the nutrients in wet food to those in dry food, convert the percentages of fat, protein, and fiber in wet food to a dry matter basis. To find the dry matter basis, use these directions from the Cummings Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University, call the food manufacturer, or ask your veterinarian for help.

Ingredients list: The ingredients on a pet food label appear in order of weight. Because cats are obligate carnivores, proteins in the form of whole meat or meat meal should come first on the ingredients list.

Expert formulations: For this guide, we prioritized brands with a dedicated nutrition expert on staff, which aligns with WSAVA guidelines and our experts' guidance. We also looked for brands active in research or those that collaborate with universities and colleges.  

Manufacturing standards: Consider a manufacturer's quality control measures and the types of facilities they use. Pet food companies should provide this information on their website or upon request.

Calorie content: The calorie content of cat food is listed in kilocalories (kcal). According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, a kitten should be offered multiple meals daily and permitted to eat food as wanted to support their rapid growth since their energy needs are much higher. As your kitten approaches 9 to 12 months of age, talk to your veterinarian about their ideal body condition, weight, and caloric needs.

Product recommendations from veterinarians: Your veterinarian can help you select the ideal food for your kitten.

How we selected the best kitten foods

To select the best kitten foods for this guide, we consulted a veterinary nutritionist and a director of feline health. 

Dr. Deb Zoran is a board-certified small animal internist and professor of small animal clinical sciences at the School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Zoran helped us understand kitten nutrition and the attributes of a quality food. She also shared her personal feeding preferences, which may not represent specific endorsements shared by Texas A&M University. 

Dr. Bruce Kornreich is a board-certified veterinary cardiologist and director of the Cornell Feline Health Center at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. While Cornell University does not endorse specific brands, Kornreich helped us understand what makes a high-quality kitten food and what to avoid. 

We also consulted guidelines and recommendations from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association's (WSAVA) Global Nutrition Guidelines, among other publications and organizations noted in the article.

Kitten food FAQs What is the best food to feed kittens?

There's no single best food for all kittens because individual kittens may have special dietary needs and specific taste and texture preferences. Zoran says the best nutritional profile for a healthy kitten is generally a food high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and high in moisture. Whatever food you buy should satisfy the AAFCO nutritional requirements for growth to be complete and balanced for a kitten. While there's nothing wrong with feeding a kitten kibble, Zoran highly encourages the rotation of different kitten food brands, textures, and proteins. Just remember that cats and kittens prefer to get most of their water from their food.

Is wet or dry food better for kittens?

Both wet and dry food can meet the nutritional needs of your kitten when labeled with the AAFCO statement for kittens (growth) or all life stages. But one food type has a lot more moisture than the other. Wet foods contain 75% to 80% moisture versus 10% to 12% found in dry food. Zoran notes that a rotation of textures, proteins, and food brands is recommended for kittens to prevent finicky tastes and food inflexibility.

Do kittens need special wet food?

Kitten food must have an AAFCO statement for growth or all life stages on its label to guarantee that it is complete and balanced for kittens. A complete and balanced dry or wet food for kittens should have a minimum of 30% protein, 9% fat, and the presence of essential nutrients, including amino acids like taurine, fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins.

What is the best dry food for kittens?

According to Zoran, the best food you can feed your kitten is one that is nutritionally complete, agrees with their skin and digestive tract, and is liked by your kitten. Quality kitten foods come from reputable brands with a dedicated nutrition expert on staff who follows strict quality control measures.

What is the best food for indoor kittens?

Zoran says that kittens should eat a well-rounded, complete and balanced diet full of different textures and tastes. Dry kibble, canned pâté, shreds, chunks in gravy, and flaked kitten foods are all appropriate to rotate in your kitten's diet, as long as their label states that the food meets the nutritional requirements set by the AAFCO for growth or all life stages.  

Is it OK to give kittens regular cat food?

Kitten food formulas should be AAFCO complete and balanced for growth or all life stages. This ensures the food has the appropriate balance of protein (30% minimum), fat (9% minimum), and essential vitamins and minerals for growth, such as calcium and phosphorus. If a food says "for intermittent feeding" rather than specifying a life stage, Kornreich says it's not a complete and balanced meal for a cat of any age and should only be offered as a treat. If a food is labeled for adults or maintenance, it won't meet a kitten's nutritional requirements for growth but is appropriate for an adult cat. 

Janelle Leeson

Freelance Writer

Janelle Leeson is a Portland, Oregon-based contributor for Insider Reviews, where she tests and writes about products for pets. She holds a bachelor of science in biology and transitioned to freelance writing after a decade-long career in the field. Her approach to pet care writing and reporting is rooted in scientific principles which consider a pet's biological need for play, proper nutrition, and environmental enrichment. In addition to writing about animal health, behavior, and nutrition, Janelle also writes about sustainability, beauty, and fashion. Her work on pets and other topics appears at Daily Paws, Great Pet Care, Rover, Shop Today, USA Today Reviewed, Fetch by The Dodo, and elsewhere. Her work has also appeared in print in Inside Your Dog's Mind, Inside Your Cat's Mind, and Paw Print magazines. You can find Janelle on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram.  Read more Read less

The Best Sensitive Stomach Cat Food In 2024

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The best sensitive stomach cat food for your kitty depends on the source of their stomach issues, such as food intolerances, allergies, or inflammatory bowel disease. If your cat doesn't have food allergies, your veterinarian may recommend a sensitive stomach formula with low to moderate fat, easily digestible animal proteins, and few carbohydrates. These formulas also typically contain supplements that help decrease gut inflammation and improve digestion, like probiotics and omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil. Certain types of dietary fiber may benefit your cat, too.

For this guide, we evaluated sensitive stomach cat foods with advice from vets and considered each food's ingredients and nutritional values. One of our top canned food picks is Royal Canin Digestive Care Thin Slices in Gravy, which includes insoluble fiber to help prevent constipation. For dry food, we recommend Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach and Skin Adult Salmon and Yellow Peas Recipe. It contains prebiotic fiber to support healthy digestion. All of our recommendations also meet pet food standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and the Global Nutrition Guidelines published by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA). 

Keep in mind that because cats are known to cough up hairballs, it's common to overlook signs of a sensitive stomach, including vomiting and regurgitation, frequent loose stools, or gas. If your cat vomits material with very little to no hair or vomits more than once a week, they should see their veterinarian, says Dr. Kelly Diehl, a veterinary internist with a subspecialty in gastroenterology. Changing your cat's diet could improve their symptoms, but it's important to start with a visit to your vet before switching to any of our recommendations for the best cat foods. If your cat has a food allergy, your vet may prescribe a hypoallergenic diet to relieve their symptoms. 

Read more about how Business Insider Reviews tests and recommends pet products.

Highlights for the best sensitive stomach cat food

Best wet: Royal Canin Digestive Care Thin Slices in Gravy - See at Chewy

Best dry: Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach and Skin Adult Salmon and Yellow Peas - See at Chewy

Best for kittens: Royal Canin Kitten Loaf in Sauce - See at Chewy

Best for seniors: Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+ Prime Plus Ocean Whitefish and Salmon - See at Chewy

Best wet Our wet food picks for the best sensitive stomach cat food include formulas from Merrick and Royal Canin. Merrick; Royal Canin/Business Insider

If your cat regularly has digestive issues, your vet may recommend switching to a wet food diet to help relieve their stomach issues and keep them hydrated. Wet cat foods contain more moisture than dry foods, typically 75% to 78% moisture compared to 10% to 12%. This is important for cats who lose water through vomiting or diarrhea, says Dr. Kelly Fishman, a veterinarian and founder of Strut Animal Mobility Specialists. 

The best wet cat food formulas typically have higher protein and lower carbohydrate content compared to dry food. This can help with weight control and digestion, says Dr. Jamie Richardson, a veterinarian and head of veterinary medicine at Small Door Vet. 

Our pick from Royal Canin contains powdered cellulose and omega-3 fatty acids from salmon. According to Tufts University, cellulose is an insoluble fiber that may help relieve constipation by increasing stool volume and bowel movement frequency. Our pick from Merrick is made with limited ingredients. Limited ingredient diets can help reduce digestive upset in cats by limiting the number of ingredients in the food, says Dr. Korinn Saker, a veterinary nutritionist and associate professor of clinical nutrition at the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine. 

To compare the nutritional values of wet and dry cat foods, you need to convert wet food values to a dry matter basis. This means you remove all the moisture from the wet food and then calculate the nutritional values based on the remaining solids. We contacted the food manufacturers to get the dry matter values of our recommendations. If you'd like to compare other recipes, you can use these directions from the Cummings Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University, call the food manufacturer, or ask your vet for help.

Royal Canin Digestive Care Thin Slices in Gravy

Meat and fish protein sources: Pork byproducts, chicken byproducts, chicken liver, pork liver, salmon, pork plasma, hydrolyzed chicken liverOther standout ingredients: Powdered cellulose Feeding trials: NoNutrition breakdown: 44.4% protein, 17.4% fat, 5.5% fiber Calorie count: 66 kcal/3-ounce can

Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Real Chicken Recipe

Meat protein sources: Deboned chicken, chicken liver, chicken brothFeeding trials: NoNutrition breakdown: 36.4% protein, 27.7% fat, 6.4% fiberCalorie count: 183 kcal/5-ounce can

Best dry Purina and Hill's make the best dry food for sensitive stomachs. Purina; Hill's/Business Insider

Wet food isn't always convenient or affordable, and some cats simply don't like it — but dry food makes a good alternative for most cats. Dry kibble has a long shelf life and stays fresh longer than canned foods after you open the package. So, you can buy the recipe that works best for your cat in larger quantities, which is often more budget-friendly. 

Keep in mind, though, that dry foods typically contain more carbohydrates than wet foods. As a result, Richardson says some cats with sensitive stomachs may have a harder time digesting kibble. Look for recipes with complex carbohydrates, such as whole wheat, corn, or white potatoes. According to Tufts University, these carbohydrates provide nutrients such as fiber, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids.

Our picks for the best dry cat foods for sensitive stomachs contain easily digestible animal-based proteins and healthy extras like dried beet pulp and oats. Beet pulp contains insoluble and soluble fiber sources, and it's highly fermentable by cats, says Ellen Dierenfeld, a comparative animal nutritionist and founder of Zootrition. Fermentable means it feeds the good bacteria in the microbiome, which can improve digestion. Oats are a soluble fiber source that slows digestion and may help ease diarrhea. 

Purina One +Plus Sensitive Skin and Stomach

Meat protein sources: Turkey, chicken byproduct meal, beef fat, dried egg productOther standout ingredients: Oatmeal, whole grain cornFeeding trials: YesNutrition breakdown: 34% protein, 14% fat, 4% fiberCalorie count: 429 kcal/cup

Hill's Science Diet Adult 1-6 Sensitive Stomach and Skin Salmon and Yellow Peas Recipe

Meat protein sources: Salmon, chicken, chicken fat, chicken mealOther standout ingredients: Potatoes, dried beet pulpFeeding trials: YesNutrition breakdown: 35% protein, 21.9% fat, 1.1% fiberCalorie count: 507 kcal/cup

Best for kittens Royal Canin makes our favorite foods for kittens with sensitive stomachs. Royal Canin/Business Insider

Kittens with diarrhea may benefit from a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet, says Dr. Deb Zoran, a veterinary nutritionist and professor at Texas A&M University. This is because foods high in protein and fat provide energy and promote healthy development of a kitten's gastrointestinal tract, she says. Pet food labels don't always list the percentage of carbohydrates in a diet, but you can shop for foods that list whole meats, meat meals, and byproducts as the top ingredients before carbohydrate sources.

According to the AAFCO recommendations, food intended for kittens must contain at least 30% and 9% fat to support their growth and energy needs. However, Zoran says the best kitten foods for sensitive stomachs should be at least 40% protein on a dry matter basis. Just keep in mind that kittens could have an upset stomach for several reasons, including intestinal parasites. Before transitioning your kitten to a new diet, it's best to have their health checked by your vet. 

The following picks for the best sensitive stomach cat food include four different meat sources in the first five ingredients and exceed 40% protein on a dry matter basis. They also contain healthy additions like fish oil, which contains docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega fatty acid that's essential for cognitive growth and development. These foods have also undergone feeding trials to ensure they are palatable, digestible, and provide adequate nutrition. Royal Canin's Gastrointestinal Kitten food requires a prescription from your vet.

Royal Canin Kitten Loaf in Sauce

Meat protein sources: Pork byproducts, chicken byproducts, chicken liver, pork liver, chickenOther standout ingredients: Wheat gluten, brewer's rice flour, fish oilFeeding trials: YesNutrition breakdown: 59.4% protein, 21.3% fat, 5.2% fiberCalorie count: 76 kcal/3-ounce can

Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Kitten Ultra Soft Mousse in Sauce

Meat protein sources: Chicken liver, chicken, chicken byproducts, pork byproductsOther standout ingredients: Wheat gluten, modified corn starch, brewer's rice, fish oilFeeding trials: YesNutrition breakdown: 53% protein, 25.3% fat, 6% fiberCalorie count: 137 kcal/5.1-ounce can

Best for seniors These foods from Purina, Hill's, and Wellness may benefit senior cats with sensitive stomachs. Purina; Hill's; Chewy/Business Insider

Older pets may be more likely to have health problems, but getting sick isn't a normal part of aging. That's why it's important to watch your senior cat closely for any signs of gastrointestinal issues. For instance, cats who aren't getting the nutrients they need due to diarrhea or vomiting may lose weight or have dull coats. 

Cats are good at hiding when they're ill, Diehl says. But signs like chronic vomiting, loose stool, or very pungent poop can all point to health issues. Your vet can help narrow down the cause and recommend dietary changes that may help. It's essential to get guidance from your vet, since managing a sensitive stomach through diet depends on many factors, including other underlying health conditions, Diehl says. 

Because cats are obligate carnivores, the best food for senior cats with sensitive stomachs may be high in protein. However, not all senior cats can eat high-protein diets. For instance, high-protein diets can be harmful to senior cats with health conditions like chronic kidney disease. Our low-protein senior pick from Hill's includes fish oil, which can help improve skin and joint health and ease gastrointestinal inflammation. Our high-protein senior picks from Purina and Wellness contain inulin (commonly derived from chicory root), which is a soluble and insoluble fiber source. While insoluble fibers help keep bowel movements regular, soluble fibers absorb water and form a gel in the stomach. This can help cats maintain a healthy weight by slowing their digestion and keeping them full between feedings.

Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+ Prime Plus Ocean Whitefish and Salmon Entree

Meat protein sources: Ocean whitefish, liver, meat byproducts, salmonOther standout ingredients: Chicory root, fish oilFeeding trials: NoNutrition breakdown: 47.4% protein, 36.5% fat, 0.7% fiberCalorie count: 107 kcal/3-ounce can

Wellness Core Digestive Health Salmon Recipe

Meat protein sources: Salmon, chicken, chicken liver, whitefish, dried egg productOther standout ingredients: InulinFeeding trials: NoNutrition breakdown: 50.1% protein, 34.8% fat, 5% fiberCalorie count: 99 kcal/3-ounce can

Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Adult 7+ Chicken, Barley, and Whole Oats Recipe

Meat protein sources: Chicken, chicken meal, egg productOther standout ingredients: Whole grain oats, dried beet pulp, fish oilFeeding trials: NoNutrition breakdown: 33% protein, 17% fat, 2.1% fiberCalorie count: 465 kcal/cup

What to look for in sensitive stomach cat food

When shopping for the best sensitive stomach cat food, you'll want to consider the following criteria: 

AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement for growth, adult maintenance, or all life stages: The most basic measure of nutritionally complete kitten and cat food is an AAFCO statement on the label. The AAFCO is a nonprofit organization that recommends nutritional standards for pet food. Recommendations are based on life stages, so food with an AAFCO statement for growth or all life stages is complete and balanced for kittens, while food with an AAFCO statement for maintenance or all life stages is complete and balanced for adult cats. The AAFCO hasn't established specific recommendations for senior cat diets. Foods for senior cats must meet the minimum AAFCO nutritional recommendations for adult or all life stages foods. 

Guaranteed analysis and nutrient profiles: The guaranteed analysis on a pet food label shows the percentages of important nutrients, including protein, fat, fiber, and other essential vitamins and minerals. Food for kittens must meet the AAFCO's recommended minimum of 30% protein and 9% fat, and food for adult cats, including seniors, must have a minimum of 26% protein and 9% fat. 

Our experts say it's important to carefully examine the guaranteed analysis for cat foods. As obligate carnivores, cats can digest high-protein diets more easily than foods with low animal protein and high carbohydrates. For some cats, the best sensitive stomach cat food may be high in protein, but high-protein diets can be harmful to some senior cats with certain health conditions. This is one reason why it's essential to ask your vet before transitioning diets.

Ingredients list: The ingredients on a pet food label appear in order of weight. Dierenfeld says that muscle meat proteins provide the best source of essential amino acids for obligate carnivores like cats. In other words, animal proteins in the form of whole meat, meat meal, or animal byproducts should come first on the ingredients list. When choosing a food, you can also look for ingredients that promote healthy digestion and ease inflammation, like probiotics, prebiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids in the form of fish oil. 

Cats are obligate carnivores, so animal-based proteins should always be listed as the first ingredient in cat food. The best formulas for sensitive stomachs may be higher in protein than other cat foods. Our recommendations include quality protein sources in the form of whole meat, meat meals, and meat byproducts. Saker says that meals and byproducts are concentrated forms of protein that are just as nutritious and digestible — if not more so — than whole protein sources.

Expert formulations: Our picks for best sensitive stomach cat food meet quality control standards recommended by WSAVA. This means the brands employ a full-time board-certified veterinary nutritionist or a PhD-level animal nutritionist. These standards help ensure your cat's food meets nutritional recommendations and includes the right ingredients.

Manufacturing standards: Zoran says pet foods can vary slightly from batch to batch, which can trigger digestive upset in cats with sensitive stomachs. When choosing sensitive stomach food for your cat, it's wise to consider the quality control measures and facilities used. Brands that own their manufacturing plants have greater control over the ingredients in their recipes and, therefore, the food your cat consumes. Pet food brands should also be transparent about how they implement quality control measures. In short, they shouldn't just say they conduct quality control.

Calorie content: The calorie content of cat food is listed in kilocalories (kcals). Your cat's calorie needs will depend on their age, activity level, and overall health. For example, kittens grow quickly in their first year and should eat multiple high-calorie meals per day. Your vet can recommend the ideal number of daily calories for adults and senior cats based on the cat's lifestyle and ideal weight. Vets can also teach you how to check your cat's body condition score (BCS) between wellness visits. The BCS is a visual tool that helps you assess your cat's body fat on a scale of 1 to 9. This information can help you understand if they need to lose or gain weight. That said, it's always best to talk to your vet before adjusting your cat's daily portion sizes.

How we selected the best sensitive stomach cat food

To narrow down our picks for the best sensitive stomach cat food, we spoke with three veterinary nutritionists, two small animal veterinarians, and one board-certified veterinary internist. We also consulted guidelines and recommendations from the AAFCO, the WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines, and other publications and organizations linked in this guide.

You can learn more about our experts below.

Dr. Deb Zoran is a board-certified small animal internist, nutritionist, and small animal clinical sciences professor at the School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. 

Dr. Korinn Saker is a board-certified veterinarian, a distinguished member of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition, and a professor of clinical nutrition at the College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University. 

Ellen Dierenfeld is a comparative animal nutritionist with an MS and PhD in Animal Nutrition from Cornell University. She is the founder of Zootrition, a software designed to record and evaluate the diets of animals. She has over 30 years of experience in zoo, wildlife, and companion animal nutrition.

Dr. Kelly Fishman is a small-animal veterinarian and founder of Strut Animal Mobility Specialists. She received her BS at UC Berkeley, conducted veterinary and neuroscience research at UCSF, and earned her DVM at Ross University. She is trained in animal acupuncture, physical rehabilitation, and specialty companion animal diets. She also advises on supplement use.

Dr. Jamie Richardson is a general practice veterinarian and head of veterinary medicine at Small Door Vet. After completing her undergraduate studies, Richardson moved to the UK to pursue a veterinary degree from London's Royal Veterinary College. Following veterinary volunteer and practice positions across South Africa, Hong Kong, and Bermuda, Richardson joined the Small Door Vet team. 

Dr. Kelly Diehl is senior director of science and communications at Morris Animal Foundation and a board-certified veterinary internist with a subspecialty in gastroenterology. She is also a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM). Diehl received her DVM from the University of Tennessee and started her practice career in an emergency clinic in New Jersey before joining the Morris Animal Foundation. 

Sensitive stomach cat food FAQs What is the best sensitive stomach cat food?

The best cat food for a sensitive stomach depends on the individual cat and the cause of the upset stomach. Many sensitive stomach foods include easy-to-digest animal proteins such as byproducts and meals, limited carbohydrates, and healthy extras like fish oil and fermentable fibers like beet pulp. Limited ingredient diets may also lower the chances of a food reaction. However, over-the-counter diets may not be the best solution for every cat with a sensitive stomach. If your cat's upset stomach is caused by food allergies, your vet may recommend switching them to a prescription hydrolyzed diet. Hydrolyzed diets contain proteins that have been broken down into tiny pieces, which are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction.

What cat food is easiest on the stomach? 

Cats are obligate carnivores, so animal-based proteins are the easiest foods for them to digest. This includes whole-meat protein like deboned chicken, meat meals, and meat byproducts. Cats can eat recipes containing more than one type of animal protein, but they don't require a new recipe every day. In fact, changing recipes daily can affect your cat's appetite and upset their gut microbiome, says Dierenfeld. 

What makes sensitive stomach cat food different?

The best sensitive stomach cat food typically contains moderate to low levels of fat and protein from sources cats can easily digest and absorb. These foods may also contain supplements that decrease gut inflammation and improve digestion. Examples of these supplements include omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil and probiotics. However, the specific ingredients and nutritional profiles of sensitive stomach cat foods can vary between brands. If you have concerns about your cat's digestive health or nutritional needs, your vet can offer more guidance on the best diet and care for your cat's individual needs.

Is wet or dry food better for a cat with an upset stomach?

Dry cat foods generally contain more carbohydrates and less moisture than wet foods. Richardson says this can make dry food difficult for some cats with sensitive stomachs to digest. Wet foods, on the other hand, have more protein and less carbohydrates, which can make them a better choice for cats with sensitive stomachs. When choosing between wet and dry food, Saker says it's also important to consider your cat's preferences and the availability of special diets. Some hydrolyzed diets, which your vet may recommend for severe food allergies, only come in kibble form.

Janelle Leeson

Freelance Writer

Janelle Leeson is a Portland, Oregon-based contributor for Insider Reviews, where she tests and writes about products for pets. She holds a bachelor of science in biology and transitioned to freelance writing after a