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The Best And Healthiest Dry Cat Food In 2025, With Nutrition Advice From Vets

Cats need essential amino acids, such as taurine, and they can only get it from meat protein sources, meaning they're obligate carnivores. The best dry cat foods can meet your cat's protein requirements while offering greater convenience and affordability than wet food. However, with so many choices out there, finding the right brand and the healthiest recipe for your pet can be a challenge.

This guide features healthy, nutritious dry foods for kittens, adult cats, and seniors. We reviewed hundreds of kibble recipes to select the top foods that meet veterinarian-recommended nutritional standards. One of the best overall dry foods for adult cats is Wellness Complete Health Salmon and Salmon Meal Recipe. It offers a healthy balance of protein and fat, along with omega fatty acids to help reduce inflammation and support skin, coat, and brain health.

In compiling our picks, we relied on the advice of veterinarians and verified that each food meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards for complete and balanced nutrition and the Global Nutrition Guidelines from the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA).

Highlights for the best dry cat foods

Best overall: Wellness Complete Health Salmon and Salmon Meal - See at Chewy

Best budget: Nutro Wholesome Essentials Adult Salmon and Brown Rice - See at Chewy

Best for indoor cats: Farmina N&D Prime Adult Chicken and Pomegranate - See at Chewy

Best for sensitive stomachs: Purina One +Plus Sensitive Skin and Stomach - See at Chewy

Best for senior cats: Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Chicken - See at Chewy

Best for kittens: Wellness Complete Health Kitten Deboned Chicken and Chicken Meal - See at Chewy

Best for hairball control: Iams ProActive Health Indoor Weight and Hairball Care Chicken and Turkey - See at Chewy

Best overall Merrick, Wellness, and Purina make nutritionally complete and balanced dry food for cats. Chewy; Purina/Business Insider

The best cat foods meet the AAFCO minimum nutrient standards for growth (kittens), maintenance (adult cats), or both. This guarantees that the food provides adequate animal protein and other nutrients for your cat's specific life stage. 

The AAFCO standards say that foods meant for kittens or cats at all life stages must contain at least 30% protein and 9% fat. Food meant for adult cats is labeled "maintenance" or "for all life stages" and must have a minimum of 26% protein and 9% fat on a dry matter basis, which is calculated after moisture is removed. The biggest difference between dry and wet food lies in their moisture content. The best and healthiest wet cat foods typically contain 75% to 78% moisture, while dry food contains only 10% to 12% moisture.  

The best dry cat foods we recommend below meet our criteria for quality adult cat food. While they cost slightly more than our budget picks, they are packed with animal proteins from deboned chicken, salmon, and beef fat. 

Wellness Complete Health Salmon and Salmon Meal Recipe

This dry cat food contains a variety of fish sources for protein, all of which contain omega-3 fatty acids to support brain and immune health. It's also packed with fiber to support digestion and added antioxidants for disease prevention.

Purina Beyond White Meat Chicken and Egg Recipe

Chicken, chicken meal, egg product, and beef fat are the main protein sources in this adult dry food. The recipe also provides beneficial fiber from carrots. Its nutritional profile is 35% protein, 14% fat, 4% fiber, and 394 kcal/cup.

Merrick Purrfect Bistro Real Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe

Animal protein sources in this dry adult cat food include deboned chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, and dried egg. The recipe also contains fiber from brown rice, barley, oatmeal, and chicory root. It consists of 36% protein, 17% fat, 3.5% fiber, and 397 kcal/cup.

Best budget Affordable dry foods from Blue Buffalo, Nutro, and Rachael Ray Nutrish are great options for your cat. Chewy; Rachael Ray Nutrish/Business Insider

The price of a pet food doesn't necessarily reflect its nutritional value or quality, says Dr. Korinn Saker, a retired veterinary nutritionist who was associate professor of clinical nutrition at the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine.

Simply put, the best dry cat foods don't have to cost a bundle. Any pet food with a nutritional adequacy statement on the label or packaging will meet your pet's minimum nutritional requirements. For cat food, Saker says quality means that protein is the first ingredient, especially for growing kittens and active adults. When animal protein is the number-one ingredient, that protein source will meet most of a cat's essential amino acid needs.

Our picks for the best budget-friendly cat foods feature animal-based protein as the first ingredient. They're also supplemented with vitamins and minerals like omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants to promote better overall health for your cat.

Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Adult Indoor Cat Salmon and Brown Rice Recipe

The main protein sources in this food for adult cats are salmon, chicken meal, chicken fat, and fish meal. It includes omega-3 fatty acids from salmon and fish meal, fiber from brown rice, oatmeal, powdered cellulose, and dried chicory root, and antioxidants from cranberries and blueberries. The nutrition breakdown is 32% protein, 15% fat, 6% fiber, and 415 kcal/cup.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Indoor Complete Chicken, Lentils, and Salmon Recipe

Protein from chicken, chicken meal, and salmon are included in this adult cat recipe. The food contains brewers rice, pumpkin, and dried plain beet pulp for fiber and cranberries as a source of antioxidants. Its nutritional profile is 34% protein, 12% fat, 8% fiber, and 375 kcal/cup.

Best for indoor cats Merrick, Farmina, and Natural Balance dry foods can help indoor cats maintain a healthy weight. Chewy; Amazon/Business Insider

Indoor cats love to sleep. Even when they have cat trees, perches, and exercise wheels, they tend to be less active and may have a slower metabolism than their outdoor counterparts. This can make them more prone to gaining excess weight over time. In fact, research indiciates up to 63% of pet cats may be overweight or obese. 

During wellness exams, your veterinarian uses a 9-point scale known as the Body Condition Score (BCS) to assess your cat's body fat based on evaluations of their ribs, belly, and hips. The scale ranges from emaciated (1) to obese (9), with a score of 5 representing an ideal weight, or body score. Knowing your cat's BCS can help you and your veterinarian determine their ideal weight and the number of calories they need to reach or maintain it.

When choosing the healthiest dry cat food for your feline, be sure to consider the calorie amount per cup and serve your cat the appropriate amount for their individual needs. If you're unsure, your vet can provide more guidance on daily feeding. Our low-calorie picks for the best indoor cat foods are packed with beneficial ingredients, such as soluble and insoluble fiber sources, which help keep your cat feeling fuller for longer.

Farmina N&D Prime Adult Chicken and Pomegranate Recipe

This dry food for indoor adult cats includes protein from chicken, chicken fat, dried whole eggs, and herring. Omega-3 fatty acids from herring oil support brain and skin health and fiber from sweet potatoes, inulin, and psyllium seed husk help with digestion. It has been feeding trial tested for nutritional adequacy and contains 44% protein, 20% fat, 1.8% fiber, and 412 kcal/cup.

Natural Balance Original Ultra Indoor Chicken and Salmon Meal Recipe

This kibble for adult indoor cats counts its main protein sources as chicken, chicken meal, chicken, chicken fat, and salmon meal. It contains menhaden fish oil for skin and coat health and fiber sources of dried plain beet pulp and potatoes for digestive support. Its nutritional profile is 33% protein, 15% fat, 6.5% fiber, and 380 kcal/cup.

Best for sensitive stomachs Cats with sensitive stomachs may find relief with these recipes from Blue Buffalo, Hill's, and Purina. Chewy; Hill's; Purina/Business Insider

Sensitive stomach cat food formulas can be a great choice if your feline friend has signs of food intolerance, such as diarrhea, vomiting, or gas. The best sensitive stomach cat food options usually contain highly digestible proteins, omega fatty acids to reduce inflammation, and digestive aids like prebiotics and probiotics.

No matter your cat's symptoms, it's always best to talk to your veterinarian before changing their diet. It's also important to understand that food intolerance is different from a food allergy. Cats with food allergies may show different signs, like itchy skin and ear infections, in addition to vomiting or diarrhea. Saker says the difference between a food allergy and intolerance lies in this immune system response.

If you think your cat may have an allergy, let your vet know. They'll often recommend starting a prescription diet.

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

This dry food for adult cats with sensitive stomachs contains protein sources from salmon, chicken, chicken fat, and chicken meal. It includes dried beet pulp, a fiber that boosts digestive health. The food has been feeding trial tested for nutritional adequacy and contains 35% protein, 21.9% fat, 1.1% fiber, and 507 kcal/cup.

Purina One +Plus Sensitive Skin and Stomach

This sensitive stomach food for adult cats counts its protein from turkey, chicken byproduct meal, beef fat, and dried egg product. It includes fiber from whole grain corn, oatmeal, dried chicory root, and carrots. The food's nutritional adequacy has been substantiated through feeding trials. Its nutrition profile is 34% protein, 14% fat, 4% fiber, and 429 kcal/cup.

Best for senior cats Purina, Nutro, and Hill's senior diets are excellent choices for older cats. Chewy; Purina; Hill's/Business Insider

As cats start to show signs of aging around 7 years old and enter their senior years at about 12, their activity levels and metabolism begin to slow down. That's when you might want to consider switching to one of our top picks for the best senior cat foods, which are lower in calories and fat. This change can be beneficial for your cat's health since high-fat diets can lead to weight gain and obesity-related issues in less active senior cats, Saker says.

When selecting one of the best dry cat foods for seniors, it's important to know that the AAFCO doesn't have specific nutritional guidelines for senior cat foods, says Dr. Jennifer Larsen, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist and clinical nutrition professor at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. Senior cat foods with an AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement will meet the minimum nutrient, vitamin, and mineral requirements for both adult and senior cats. However, the calorie, fat, protein, and fiber content in formulas for older cats varies by brand. That's why it's wise to check the calorie content of each formula and consult your vet for advice on your cat's daily calorie needs.

Dr. Deb Zoran, a board-certified small animal internist, nutritionist, and professor of small animal clinical sciences at the Texas A&M University School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, says she likes to rotate Nutro into her cats' food lineup. Their senior food has fewer calories than most adult foods while still providing plenty of protein. As part of our senior food picks, we've included recipes that contain antioxidants, omega-3 and onega-6 fatty acids, and beta-carotene. These ingredients may help reduce inflammation, boost your cat's cognitive function, and strengthen their immune system.

Purina Pro Plan Prime Plus Chicken and Rice Formula

This feeding-trial-tested food contains chicken, poultry byproduct meal, beef fat, dried egg product, and fish meal as animal protein sources. It also contains fiber from rice, cassava root flour, dried chicory root, and fish oil for skin and brain health. Its nutrition profile is 38% protein, 17% fat, 2.5% fiber, and 604 kcal/cup.

Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor 11+ Chicken Recipe

Chicken is the main protein source in this dry food for senior cats. The recipe also contains beneficial fiber from whole grain wheat, powdered cellulose, and dried beet pulp, fish oil for cognitive and skin support, and l-carnitine to support fat burning. It contains 34.7% protein, 20.9% fat, 8.5% fiber, and 398 kcal/cup.

Nutro Wholesome Essentials Senior Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe

Chicken, chicken meal, and chicken fat make up the main protein sources in this senior cat food. The recipe also provides cognitive support from fish oil, beneficial fiber from dried beet pulp, and antioxidants from vitamin E. It contains 36% protein, 17% fat, 6% fiber, and 445 kcal/cup.

Best for kittens Iams, Hill's, and Purina make enticing, nutritious food for kittens. Chewy; Purina; Hill's/Business Insider

If your cat is less under a year old, feed them one of the best kitten foods or a food labeled "for all life stages." All life stages foods are formulated to meet the minimum nutritional requirements for growth, including protein, calcium, phosphorus, and fat. These foods exceed the minimum requirements for an adult cat's nutritional needs, Saker says.

However, foods specially formulated for growing kittens may be a better choice. Not only is the smaller kibble better suited to tiny mouths, but kitten food has higher minimum percentages of essential nutrients. It also contains docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid that supports brain development in kittens. Fish, fish oil, and fish meal are excellent sources of DHA.

You can help your kitten become more open to different foods by rotating brands, flavors, and textures. Zoran says this approach encourages food flexibility throughout their life. However, this doesn't mean your kitten should eat a completely new food every day. Instead, rotate foods every couple of weeks. You can gradually transition to a new food by adding a little more of the new food each day. If your kitten doesn't seem to like the new food or shows signs of stomach upset, you can slow the transition or return to feeding the previous food.

Iams ProActive Health Healthy Kitten

Protein from chicken, chicken byproduct meal, chicken fat, and dried egg product are included in this kitten recipe. The food contains fish oil as a source of DHA and dried plain beet pulp for beneficial fiber. Its nutritional profile is 33% protein, 21% fat, 3% fiber, and 484 kcal/cup.

Hill's Science Diet Kitten Chicken Recipe

Animal protein sources in this dry kitten food are chicken, chicken fat, and egg product. Sources of fiber include brown rice and dried plain beet pulp and fish oil is added for DHA. Its nutritional adequacy has also been substantiated through feeding trials. It contains 33% protein, 19% fat, 4% fiber, and 555 kcal/cup.

Best for hairball control High-fiber foods from Nutro, Royal Canin, and Iams are the best dry cat foods for preventing hairballs. Chewy/Business Insider

Hairballs form when cats groom themselves or each other, which are natural and healthy behaviors. Small amounts of hair can pass through their system and be eliminated as waste. However, if cats ingest too much hair, the excess may end up as a hairball on your carpet — or, worse, become stuck in their digestive tract, potentially causing an obstruction.

While a change in diet and the best hairball remedies for cats can help, they shouldn't replace regular brushing. High-fiber cat food, however, can assist in moving hair through the digestive system, Larsen says. "The goal is to use fiber to help push the hair along the gastrointestinal tract so it's passed as waste instead of forming a ball in the stomach," she explains. Key ingredients that promote this movement include rice hulls, pea fiber, and cellulose.

Additionally, Larsen says there's another benefit to fiber-rich diets for cats. High-fiber formulas can help cats feel fuller for longer, which may reduce their overall calorie intake. So, if your vet recommends weight loss for your cat, a fiber-rich diet could be a good option. Our picks for the best hairball control cat food contain added fiber, and Royal Canin and Iams include extra omega fatty acids. 

Royal Canin Hairball Care

This hairball control dry food for adult cats contains chicken byproduct meal and chicken fat as its main protein sources. Fish oil provides omega fatty acids to reduce shedding and added psyllium seed husk and dried plain beet pulp help move hair through the digestive tract. It contains 32% protein, 13% fat, 8.5% fiber, and 342 kcal/cup.

Iams ProActive Health Indoor Weight and Hairball Care with Chicken and Turkey

This dry adult cat food helps prevent and eliminate hairballs with its added fiber from ground whole grain corn, dried plain beet pulp, and powdered cellulose. Its main protein sources are chicken, chicken byproduct meal, and turkey, and fish oil is a source of omega fatty acids. It contains 30% protein, 13.5% fat, 8.3% fiber, and 302 kcal/cup.

What to look for in dry cat foods

To select the healthiest dry food for your kitten, adult, or senior cat, consider the following guidelines and tips.

AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement: The most basic measure of nutritionally complete cat food is 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, while food with an AAFCO statement for maintenance or all life stages is guaranteed to be complete and balanced for adult cats.

Guaranteed analysis and nutrient profiles: The guaranteed analysis consists of the percentages of protein, fat, and other important nutrients in a food. Food for kittens should have a minimum of 30% protein and 9% fat, and food for adult cats should have a minimum of 26% protein and 9% fat. Food for cats of any age should also contain other 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." You can use these directions from the Tufts University Cummings Veterinary Medical Center, call the food manufacturer, or ask your vet for help.

Key ingredients: Pet food labels list ingredients in order of weight. Because cats are obligate carnivores, proteins in the form of whole meat or meat meal should come first on the list.

Expert formulations: For this guide, we prioritized brands with a dedicated nutrition expert on staff, which aligns with the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) guidelines and our experts' guidance. We also opted for brands active in research on small animal nutrition and brands that collaborate with universities and colleges.  

Manufacturing standards: When selecting a cat food brand, consider a manufacturer's quality control measures and the types of facilities they use. For instance, manufacturers that own their plants have more control over the ingredients in the recipe and the food your cat consumes. Just keep in mind that it's not enough for a brand to say they conduct quality control. Pet food companies should also provide information about their quality control practices on their website or upon request. 

Calorie content: The calorie content of cat food is listed in kilocalories (kcals). Your cat will have different calorie needs, depending on their age and activity level. Kittens grow quickly in their first year, and all that growth requires plenty of energy. Therefore, kittens should eat multiple meals per day without calorie restrictions. As your kitten approaches 9 to 12 months of age, talk to your vet about their ideal body condition, weight, and caloric needs.

Once cats reach their adult years, the amount of food they should eat depends on their weight, energy level, breed, and overall health. Your vet can offer more detailed and personalized guidance about how many calories your cat requires per day.

How we selected the best dry cat foods

To make our recommendations for the best dry cat foods, we consulted experts in animal nutrition.

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

Dr. Jennifer Larsen is a board-certified veterinary nutritionist, a distinguished member of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition, and a professor of clinical nutrition at the School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis. Larsen's expertise helped us better understand senior cat nutrition and the role of high-fiber diets in feline nutrition and well-being.

Dr. Korinn Saker is a retired veterinary nutritionist who was a professor of clinical nutrition at the College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University. Saker helped improve our understanding of feline food intolerance and sensitivities, as well as an indoor cat's metabolic needs.

We also consulted guidelines and recommendations from other organizations, including AAFCO and the WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines.

Dry cat food FAQs What are the benefits of dry cat food?

Dry food is a popular choice for its affordability, convenience, and ease of storage. "There is a small amount of evidence that some, very few, and specific dry cat foods may have some oral health and dental benefits," says Dr. Bruce Kornreich, a board-certified veterinary cardiologist and director of the Cornell Feline Health Center at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. "But the most important thing that cat owners can do to maintain their cat's oral health is to brush their cat's teeth," he says.

What is the healthiest dry cat food brand?

To ensure you're purchasing quality food for your cat, Zoran recommends first checking the label for the AAFCO statement. That way, you'll know the recipe meets your cat's nutritional needs. Then, you might consider other brand attributes, including whether their food has ever been recalled, if they employ board-certified nutritionists, and whether they participate in research studies. If a company is reputable, you can generally trust what they print on the label, according to Zoran. 

What is the best dry food to give a cat?

There's not a perfect dry food choice that fits every cat or kitten. Instead, ask your veterinarian for food recommendations tailored to your pet. They may be able to suggest some options that meet your cat's specific nutritional and calorie needs, based on their age, body condition, and overall health.  

Is it OK to feed cats dry food only?

Zoran recommends feeding cats a combination of dry and wet food from different brands starting at a young age. This encourages food flexibility in cats and can prevent them from becoming picky eaters — which may prove particularly helpful when their preferred food is unavailable, recipes change, or they require a prescription diet.

Do vets recommend dry or wet food for cats?

Both canned and dry food choices can meet the nutritional needs of cats and kittens, as long as they're labeled with the AAFCO statement for your cat's specific life stage. The ideal food for your cat generally depends on your budget, along with their overall health and food preferences. However, to prevent finicky tastes and food inflexibility, Zoran recommends rotating textures, proteins, and brands from a young age. You can learn more in our explainer about wet vs. Dry cat food.

Should I leave dry food out for my cat all day?

Zoran doesn't recommend free-feeding cats. "It is exceptionally hard to regulate a cat's weight and proper amount of food by free-choice feeding," she says. Instead, portion their food into two to three small meals a day. If you're not sure how much to feed your cat, you can ask your vet for more specific guidance based on your cat's age, ideal weight, and overall health.

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 11 Best Cat Foods In 2025, With Advice From Vets

It can be a challenge to choose one of the best cat foods to keep your finicky feline happy and healthy. Several key factors are important to consider, from your cat's age to whether you prefer the convenience of dry food over the beneficial extra moisture in wet food. Additionally, if your cat has specific health needs, there are special formulas to address concerns ranging from hairballs and digestive issues to weight management.

We've spent the last four years researching feline nutrition and consulted more than a dozen veterinarians and animal nutritionists to identify the key qualities of the best cat food. While there isn't a single healthiest formula, our recommendations are nutritious recipes from top brands. One of the overall best foods is Wellness Gravies Salmon Entree. In addition to nutritious salmon and turkey, this wet food contains fish oil, a source of beneficial omega fatty acids.

You can find more nutritionally complete and balanced foods in the buying guides linked throughout this article. All of our selections meet the veterinarian-recommended 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). If you'd like to learn more about these standards, scroll down to the section on "what to look for in a cat food." However, be sure to talk to your vet before making any changes to your cat's diet.

You can read more about how Business Insider Reviews tests and recommends pet products.

Our top picks for the best cat foods

Best wet overall: Wellness Gravies Salmon Entree - See at Chewy

Best dry overall: Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Lamb and Blueberry Recipe - See at Chewy

Best budget wet: Natural Balance Original Ultra Chicken and Liver Recipe - See at Chewy

Best budget dry:  Nutro Wholesome Essentials Adult Salmon and Brown Rice Recipe - See at Chewy

Best for indoor cats: Royal Canin Indoor Morsels in Gravy - See at Chewy

Best for kittens: Purina Pro Plan Kitten Salmon and Ocean Fish Entree - See at Chewy

Best for seniors: Wellness Complete Health 7+ Age Advantage Tuna and Salmon Entree - See at Chewy

Best fresh: Just Food For Cats Fish and Chicken Recipe - See at Chewy

Best for sensitive stomachs: Royal Canin Digestive Care Thin Slices in Gravy - See at Chewy

Best for weight loss: Hill's Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Liver and Chicken Entree - See at Chewy

Best for hairball control: Hill's Science Diet Urinary Hairball Control Adult Savory Chicken Entree - See at Chewy

Best wet overall Wellness Gravies Salmon Entree

This wet cat food is high in protein but not calories, helping your cat feel full and satisfied while supporting their lean muscle mass.

Cats depend on essential amino acids for healthy growth and physical well-being, but they cannot produce these acids, such as taurine, on their own. They must be sourced from a meat-based diet, says Dr. Jonathan Stockman, a veterinary nutritionist and associate professor of clinical veterinary sciences at Long Island University College of Veterinary Medicine. Wellness Gravies Salmon Entree delivers a substantial 51% protein from salmon and turkey in a savory broth.

Because Wellness Gravies Salmon Entree is low in calories, it can help manage your cat's weight when served in appropriate proportions. It's also more filling than dry food, thanks to its high moisture content. The food includes healthy extras, such as antioxidants from cranberries, which may help lower a cat's risk of degenerative diseases of the liver, kidneys, and brain. It also contains inulin from chicory root, a fiber source that aids regularity and may help cats feel fuller for longer.

While high-protein foods such as this one can benefit many cats, consult your veterinarian before offering a high-protein diet if your cat is senior or has underlying health issues. Foods high in protein can be harmful to cats with kidney disease, says Dr. Carly Fox, a senior veterinarian at the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center. 

For more excellent options, check out our guide to the best and healthiest wet cat foods.

Best dry overall

If you're looking for a convenient, practical way to nourish your cat, dry food is an excellent option. It's typically more affordable and lasts longer once opened than wet cat food. Plus, many cats enjoy its crunchy texture and flavorful coating. One of our top picks, Farmina N&D Prime Lamb and Blueberry Recipe, provides 36% protein with healthy servings of fat and fiber.

Like all our recommendations for the best cat foods, this recipe is formulated by a veterinary nutritionist. It contains dried beet pulp, a good source of fermentable fiber that can support digestive health by feeding beneficial gut bacteria, says Ellen Dierenfeld, a comparative animal nutritionist and founder of Zootrition. Other sources of fiber in this recipe include oats, inulin, and psyllium. In addition, blueberries and pomegranates also provide beneficial antioxidants. 

Omega-3 fatty acids are nutrients your cat can only get from their diet. Small, cold-water fish like herring are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, and this food includes herring in both meat and oil form. Omega-3 fatty acids may help maintain a healthy coat, prevent dry skin, and reduce joint inflammation. 

Our guide to best and healthiest dry cat foods includes more recommendations for cats of all ages. You can also learn more about the differences between kibble and canned food in our wet versus dry cat food article.

Best budget wet

Wet cat food is often more expensive than kibble, but high-quality, affordable options exist. Natural Balance Original Ultra Chicken and Liver Pate is a good example. It's packed with protein-rich organ meat, including liver, essential nutrients, and healthy extras, like cranberry antioxidants. 

Organ meats are often labeled as byproduct meals and meat. They're nutrient-rich components of a cat's natural diet. In particular, liver has many good vitamins and minerals that can be very beneficial, Stockman says. These ingredients help keep cat food affordable without compromising quality or a cat's health.

This food is formulated for all life stages, meaning it's suitable for cats of all ages, from kittens to seniors. It's a convenient solution for households with cats of all ages or those who prefer not to transition their kitten to adult food. However, Stockman says all life stages formulas are higher in nutrients and calories than adult maintenance formulas, which may lead to weight gain in some adult cats. For cats with weight management issues, a food tailored to their age might be better.

Best budget dry

Even if you have more money to spend, don't write off the best budget-friendly cat foods. Nutro Wholesome Essentials Adult Salmon and Brown Rice is an affordable AAFCO complete and balanced dry food that is just as nutritious as pricier kibble.

Not only does this budget-friendly dry food contain whole meats and protein-rich meat meals, but it also has ingredients like whole brown rice and whole grain oatmeal. Whole grains are preferred over processed flours and meals, says Dr. Korinn Saker, retired associate professor of clinical nutrition at the College of Veterinary Medicine at North Carolina State University. Whole, complex carbohydrates keep cats feeling full because they take more energy to break down. Plus, they're a good source of fiber, which can aid digestion and help reduce hairballs. 

The salmon in this recipe is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which may improve skin and fur health and reduce shedding. It also contains the fermentable fiber beet pulp for digestive health.

Best for indoor cats Royal Canin Indoor Morsels in Gravy

This high-moisture wet food is low in calories and includes a special source of fiber to keep your cat feeling full for longer — perfect for sleepy days indoors.

Even with the best cat trees, exercise wheels, and toys, indoor cats are often less active than their outdoor counterparts, which can increase their risk of weight gain. In addition to portion control, feeding low-calorie food can help keep your cat satisfied and at a healthy weight. 

We recommend Royal Canin Indoor Adult Cats Morsels in Gravy. This low-calorie wet cat food contains added fiber from powdered cellulose to help your cat feel fuller for longer. It also contains L-carnitine, an amino acid that may help the body burn fat for energy to support a healthy weight.

If you're unsure how much your cat should eat, ask your veterinarian about the Body Condition Score (BCS), a nine-point scale used to assess your cat's body fat and help determine their ideal weight and calorie requirements.

You can find more dry and wet food picks in our guide to the best indoor cat foods.

Best for kittens

Kitten food is specially formulated for cats under a year old, with a minimum of 30% protein, 9% fat, and extra vitamin A, calcium, and phosphorus. These foods also contain docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid. DHA supports brain development and can be found in fish, fish oil, and fish meal, such as the salmon and ocean fish in Purina Pro Plan's Kitten Salmon and Ocean Fish Entree.

Whether a kitten is fed dry food, wet food, or a combination, each can provide adequate nutrition if formulated for growth at all life stages. This smooth pate, however, offers a gentle transition from mother's milk. While its high moisture content promotes proper hydration, cats of all ages should always have access to fresh water. 

In addition to being formulated under the guidance of a veterinary nutritionist, this food stands out for its proven nutritional adequacy through feeding trials. This means it was fed to a group of kittens to ensure its nutritional value and safety.

In our guide to the best kitten foods, we highlight both wet and dry foods with various proteins and textures.

Best for seniors

Once a cat reaches 7 years of age, they start to show signs of aging. Around 12 years old, they enter their senior years. Although older cats have the same minimum AAFCO nutritional requirements as younger adult cats, they may experience age-related conditions such as arthritis, weight gain, or muscle loss. A senior diet can help manage these specific issues.

Wellness Complete Health Age Advantage Plus Tuna and Salmon Entree is one of the best cat foods for seniors. The wet food includes omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin sulfate, found in tuna and salmon. These joint-supporting ingredients may help reduce inflammation and stiffness.

Weight management can be a challenge with senior cats due to decreased exercise and a slowing metabolism, but it should remain a priority. This high-moisture food includes L-carnitine and beet pulp to help maintain a healthy weight. Along with portion control, age-appropriate play can prevent weight gain.

Check out our guide to the best senior cat foods for more nutritionally complete and balanced recommendations.

Best fresh

Fresh cat food is a relatively new trend in which whole meats, vegetables, essential vitamins, and minerals are combined and then frozen to maintain freshness. Some fresh pet foods are available via fuss-free subscription, and others are available in the freezer section of pet stores.

While several fresh cat food companies meet the AAFCO standards, Just Food For Cats stands out because they have a veterinary nutritionist on staff. According to our experts, this is an essential quality to look for when choosing any cat food. Additionally, the company has a research advisory board of 14 veterinarians who provide nutrition research and feeding guidance.

Just Food for Cats offers one recipe for cats: Chicken and Fish. While the selection is limited, we like that the most nutritious parts of the chicken are used, including the thighs, hearts, and livers. Pacific cod and sardines add to the palatability and are also a good source of omega fatty acids for skin and joint health.

Best for sensitive stomachs

Like humans, some cats have more sensitive stomachs than others, leading to unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or gas. If your cat experiences these issues, Royal Canin Digestive Care Thin Slices in Gravy may provide relief. However, you should consult your vet before switching to one of the best cat foods for stomach sensitivity.

Royal Canin Digestive Care Thin Slices in Gravy contains minimal fat (1.6%) and low fiber (2.5%), making it gentle on sensitive stomachs. The limited fiber in this recipe comes from powdered cellulose, an insoluble fiber that may help relieve constipation by increasing stool volume and bowel movement frequency. Instead of whole meats, the recipe includes processed proteins like pork byproducts, chicken liver, and pork plasma. Foods with more processed proteins may help your cat absorb the nutrients more efficiently, Saker says.

This food is formulated for adult cats only. Kittens have specific nutritional needs for growth. If your kitten has gastrointestinal issues, consult your vet before considering our picks. Then, you should only consider foods formulated for growth or all life stages, such as Royal Canin Kitten Loaf in Sauce. 

Our guide to the best sensitive stomach cat food highlights more formulas for various budgets.

Best for weight loss

The more overweight a cat becomes, the more likely they are to develop conditions such as diabetes, liver disease, arthritis, and pancreatitis. You can help your cat lose weight and maintain a healthy body weight by closely controlling their portion sizes and switching them to a weight management diet, such as Hill's Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Liver and Chicken Entree.

Fiber-rich weight management foods like this one can help your cat feel fuller longer. This means less meowing between meals and less temptation to sneak your cat a treat or overfeed them. This diet's fiber sources include powdered cellulose, an insoluble fiber, and carrots, a soluble fiber source. This adult cat food also contains the amino acid L-carnitine to help the body burn fat for energy. 

While both wet and dry weight management diets can be effective, wet food's moisture content aids in satiety, reducing begging and overeating. Plus, it's generally easier to overfeed your cat with dry food than wet since dry is more calorie-dense.

You can find more dry and wet food options in our guide to the best weight loss foods for cats.

Best for hairball control

When cats groom, they often swallow loose hairs. These hairs may pass through their digestive tract without issue or clump into hairballs. Coughing up a hairball once every week or two is normal for most cats. But some hairballs may grow too large and get trapped in the stomach, where they can cause a dangerous blockage. Hill's Science Diet Urinary Hairball Control Savory Chicken Entree may help cats who struggle with hairballs.

Although this food won't stop your cat from licking themselves or swallowing hair, insoluble fiber sources such as powdered cellulose and dried beet pulp might help prevent loose hairs from getting stuck in the digestive tract. Insoluble fibers don't dissolve during digestion, so they work by pulling along hairs on their way out. 

In addition, this recipe contains fish oil, a good source of omega fatty acids. Omega fatty acids may improve skin and coat health and reduce shedding.  

Our guide to the best hairball control cat food highlights nine more excellent formulas.

What to look for in a cat food

When shopping for the best cat foods, there are some key criteria to keep in mind.

An AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement: The most basic measure of nutritionally complete and balanced cat food is an AAFCO statement on the label. The AAFCO is a nonprofit organization that defines the standard nutritional requirements for pet food and animal feed. A cat food with an AAFCO statement is guaranteed to be complete and balanced for cats at specific life stages. The AAFCO designates the stages according to the following criteria.

Growth and reproduction: Foods that carry this designation are for kittens under 1 year old and pregnant or nursing cats. These formulas are high in protein (30% minimum) and fat (9% minimum) to support rapid growth. They also contain more vitamin A, calcium, and phosphorus than adult maintenance foods. 

Maintenance: Maintenance foods are formulated for adult cats. They are lower in protein (26% minimum) and fat (9% minimum) than kitten foods.

All-life stages: You can feed these foods to kittens and adult cats because the formulas meet the higher nutritional demands of kittens.

While many senior cats benefit from specialized nutrition, the AAFCO does not recognize "senior" as a distinct life stage. Senior cat foods typically meet the nutritional recommendations for maintenance. For senior cats without weight management or those experiencing muscle loss, an all-life-stages formula, which meets the higher nutritional requirements of kittens, may be beneficial. 

Look for one of three AAFCO statements on the label of cat food to ensure that it is nutritionally complete and balanced.

"[Product] is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Cat Food Nutrient Profiles." This statement confirms that the food's minimum nutrient profile has been verified via a third-party laboratory analysis. 

"Animal feeding tests using AAFCO procedures substantiate that [product] provides complete and balanced nutrition." Instead of submitting a food for laboratory analysis, a company may test food through controlled feeding trials. Keep in mind that these trials are imperfect; the AAFCO requires eight healthy cats to consume the food for six months. At the end of the trial, at least 75% of the participating cats must meet four blood test parameters and must not have lost more than 15% of their original body weight.

"[Product] provides complete and balanced nutrition and is comparable in nutritional adequacy to a product which has been substantiated using AAFCO feeding tests." A cat food manufacturer whose family of products has already met the AAFCO's feeding trials criteria may carry this statement for recipes that were not directly tested. 

Almost all commercially made cat foods exceed the minimum standards set by the AAFCO, says Dr. Valerie Parker, a veterinary nutritionist and professor of clinical small animal internal medicine and nutrition at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. The manufacturer must conduct a third-party laboratory analysis or feeding trials using AAFCO protocols to determine whether a product meets the minimum standards. A cat food without an AAFCO complete and balanced statement for an individual cat's life stage should never be fed as the cat's primary food.

Guaranteed analysis: The guaranteed analysis on a pet food label shows the percentages of protein, fat, and other important nutrients in a food. If you're looking to compare wet food to kibble, you'll find the guaranteed analysis of wet food doesn't give you the complete picture of how much of these vital nutrients are present. That's because the two types of food have vastly different moisture contents (around 75% to 78% in wet food and 10% to 12% in dry food). 

The percentages of fat, protein, and fiber in wet food must be converted to "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. 

Calories: A cat food's calorie content should be clearly listed on its packaging. The calorie content of cat food is listed in kilocalories (kcal). According to WSAVA, the average cat weighing between 8 and 10 pounds should consume between 230 and 270 kcal daily. 

"The most common mistake that pet parents make, leading to overweight or obese cats, is feeding too many calories," says Dr. Nell Ostermeier, a veterinarian and veterinary spokesperson at Figo Pet Insurance. You can calculate your cat's daily calorie needs based on your cat's weight, or consult your vet for a personalized plan. "Leave a little extra room for about 5% to 10% of their calorie intake to come from treats," Ostermeier adds. Our guide to the best cat treats is a great starting point for finding low-calorie options to please your cat. 

Brand reputation: By carefully reviewing the WSAVA Global Nutritional Guidelines, you can distinguish trustworthy brands from those that may fall short. We prioritize brands that align with these standards, considering their expert formulation, research initiatives, quality control measures, and recall history.

Selecting pet food manufacturers that employ at least one full-time board-certified veterinary nutritionist or an animal nutrition expert with a master's or doctorate degree can help ensure the highest quality standards. "Pet food production requires a thorough knowledge of pet nutrition, pet food ingredients, processing methods and their effect on nutrients, plus a good understanding of physiology, chemistry, mathematics, microbiology, and biochemistry," Okada says.

It's also important to consider a manufacturer's quality control measures and the types of