Best Cat Food • Reviews & Buying Guide
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Best Cat Food • Reviews & Buying Guide (October 2024)

Updated: August 25, 2024

Hill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat Food

After 39 hours spent researching the best cat foods, we think Hill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat Food is the best for most people.

This choice is based on several criteria: brand, type, size, flavor, life stage, calories, balanced nutrition, high-quality proteins, vitamins & minerals, fibers, organic, grain-free, gluten-free, artificial preservatives, and easy to digest, among other things.

 ProductPriceOverall RatingQualityAppearanceTasteBalanceValue for Moneybrandtypesizeflavorlife stagecaloriesbalanced nutritionhigh-quality proteinsvitamins & mineralsfibersorganicgrain-freegluten-freeartificial preservativeseasy to digest
Hill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat FoodHill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat FoodCheck Price4.45.04.54.04.04.5Hill's Pet NutritionDry8.5 lbsChickenAll ages508 kcal / cupYesYesYesYesNoNoNoYesYes
Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Dry Cat FoodBlue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Dry Cat FoodCheck Price4.34.54.54.04.04.5Blue BuffaloDry11 lbsFishAll ages391 kcals / cupYesYesYesYesYesYesYesNoYes
Purina Friskies Wet Cat FoodPurina Friskies Wet Cat FoodCheck Price4.85.04.54.55.05.0Purina FriskiesWet13.75 lbsChicken, whitefish, tuna, salmon, beefAll ages127 kcal / canYesYesYesYesNoNoNoYesYes
Evolution Diet Dry Cat FoodEvolution Diet Dry Cat FoodCheck Price4.95.05.04.55.05.0Evolution DietDry40 lbsVeganAll agesNot specifiedYesYesYesYesYesNoNoYesYes
Purina Fancy Feast Wet Cat FoodPurina Fancy Feast Wet Cat FoodCheck Price4.65.04.54.04.55.0PurinaWet11.25 lbsSeafood, poultry, beefAdult99 kcal / canYesYesYesYesNoNoNoYesYes
Best Cat Food

The best cat food can keep your feline companion happy and healthy through the years.

With the proper nutrition, your cat will be agile and playful while maintaining a healthy, smooth coat with minimal shedding. Your pretty kitty will definitely be the cat’s meow!

Just like their owners, cats need to stay active and fit in order to live their nine lives to the fullest. A major component of a healthy lifestyle for both humans and felines is a well-balanced and nutritious diet.

Cat food comes in a variety of brands and flavors that will entice even the pickiest of kitties. Look out for vet recommended cat food and cat food comparison lists for the best wet cat food and the best dry cat food.

While cats can’t be put on a diet of green tea and oatmeal in order to stay in shape, getting your cat an automatic cat feeder and cat water fountain can help you control their portions and keep your cat hydrated.

In addition to choosing the right cat food, allowing your pet to be active is also another major component of good health. Consider buying a cat toy (or two!) to have fun and bond with your fur baby. Toys with catnip can make playtime even more enjoyable.

Although walking a dog is more common than walking a cat, getting your pet a cat collar or cat harness with a leash is another good way to give you and your feline friend some much needed exercise.

Selection Of The Best Cat Foods

Here are the best cat foods for most people according to Outlinist:

Hill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat Food

Hill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat Food
(rated 4.4 / 5)
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No two cats eat the same way. Most cats eat multiple small meals throughout the day, but some might eat their food quickly, while others take their time.

Some cats prefer wet over dry food, different varieties, or certain cuts of meat.

Then, there are the cats that require cat food for sensitive stomachs. Digestive problems are typically indicated by hairballs or diarrhea, and are highly common.

The occasional hairball is nothing to fret over, however if your cat has long-term gastrointestinal and digestive issues, you may need to consider changing their diet.

Your vet will likely provide several cat food recommendations to improve your cat’s gut health.

Information

It creates regular bowel health, promotes growth of helpful bacteria in the gut, and replaces lost nutrients to ensure easy nutrient absorption.

One of the healthiest cat food brands and one that your vet is likely to recommend is Hill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat Food. This food is exactly the kind of mindful diet you need for a feline with gastrointestinal issues. The mixed fiber sources help maintain gastrointestinal health.

Specifically, the high protein, carbohydrates, and fat helps assimilate nutrients and repair tissues of the digestive system faster. These nutrients will replenish the body overall and encourage recovery, which is often achieved through cell oxidation.

This unique dry food is made with a good balance of both soluble and insoluble fivers. Prebiotic fibers as well as essential omega-3 and -6 fatty acids are also present. In addition, it is high in electrolytes and B vitamins, with clinically proven antioxidants. It’s no surprise that so many vets recommend this healthy blend for a cat.

brandHill's Pet Nutrition
typeDry
size8.5 lbs
flavorChicken
life stageAll ages
calories508 kcal / cup
balanced nutritionYes
high-quality proteinsYes
vitamins & mineralsYes
fibersYes
organicNo
grain-freeNo
gluten-freeNo
artificial preservativesYes
easy to digestYes

Overall the food supports a healthier immune system than other cat food brands. It creates regular bowel health, promotes growth of helpful bacteria in the gut, and replaces lost nutrients to ensure easy nutrient absorption.

This dry food comes in an 8.6 lb. bag with a flavorful chicken formula. Some of the key ingredients include chicken, pork fat, egg, chicken liver flavor, cracked pearled barley and rice.

Whether your cat is a kitten with digestive issues or a senior, this dry cat food is suitable for all ages. It is made strictly in the US with US imported ingredients. When using this cat food, you will notice your cat’s digestive system improve in no time at all.

Pros

The key to switching your cat’s diet for a sensitive stomach is that you want issues to be prevented and results to be fast.

If your cat suffers from any of the most common gastrointestinal issues such as hairballs, constipation, or parasites, you want a cat food with all pros. Fortunately this cat food blend has more than just one advantage for your cat with a sensitive stomach.

  • Veterinarian approved: Since sometimes you actually need a prescription to buy Hill’s cat food, then you know it is veterinarian approved. If your cat has a sensitive stomach or any type of stomach issues, this will be one of the first foods your vet recommends.
  • Meat comes first: Even for a special diet blend, you still want your cat food to have the protein your pet needs. This is why meat is the first ingredient in this formula. For the chicken blend, chicken and chicken liver flavor are primarily used, while other flavors will feature other meats.
  • Includes minerals and vitamins: The list of minerals and vitamins in this cat food goes on and on. For starters, it includes: omega-3’s, -6 fatty acids, vitamin B, several antioxidants, and is high in electrolytes. There is no doubt that your cat is receiving all the nutrients it needs.
  • Prevents GI issues: The key to switching your cat’s diet for a sensitive stomach is that you want issues to be prevented and results to be fast. This cat food prevents GI issues such as hairballs and constipation almost immediately.
  • Multiple dry recipes: Cats love the taste of this chicken flavored special diet cat food, but for the pickiest eaters, there are 22 dry blend recipes available. This means you can care for your cat’s stomach, while still feeding them food they will enjoy.
  • AAFCO approved: As a mindful pet owner, you should always take notice to ensure that your cat’s food is federally approved to know you are feeding your cat the right stuff. In addition to its AAFCO approval, Hill’s cat food includes a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Cons

Even the healthiest dry cat food may still have its drawbacks. This dry cat food is no exception to the rule, but you may find that the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages. You’ll probably still want to give this unique blend for sensitive stomachs a try.

  • Some by-products and filler used: When it comes to cat food, it is hard to escape the use of by-products and filler. These ingredients are typically added to increase the amount of the food without increasing the cost, but it’s hardly the worst thing to find.
  • Protein is low: While meat is the first ingredient, the protein percentage in this specific formula is low. Pet owners may be concerned with the amount of protein their cat is getting, but it replaces protein with high amounts of fiber to help the digestive system.
  • Carbohydrates are high: Carbohydrates might not be the first thing on your list when it comes to feeding your cat, but it won’t hurt. This formula is scrutinized for its higher than average carb content, but again, this cat food is unlike other brands in order to meet the needs of sensitive stomachs.
 

Hill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat FoodHill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat Food

Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Dry Cat FoodBlue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Dry Cat Food

Purina Friskies Wet Cat FoodPurina Friskies Wet Cat Food

PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
brandHill's Pet NutritionBlue BuffaloPurina Friskies
typeDryDryWet
size8.5 lbs11 lbs13.75 lbs
flavorChickenFishChicken, whitefish, tuna, salmon, beef
life stageAll agesAll agesAll ages
calories508 kcal / cup391 kcals / cup127 kcal / can
balanced nutritionYesYesYes
high-quality proteinsYesYesYes
vitamins & mineralsYesYesYes
fibersYesYesYes
organicNoYesNo
grain-freeNoYesNo
gluten-freeNoYesNo
artificial preservativesYesNoYes
easy to digestYesYesYes

Summary

This is one of the top cat foods recommended by vets for its many health benefits for cats of all ages.

A hairball here and there might be normal, but consistent hairballs or other symptoms of gastrointestinal issues should not be overlooked. If you suspect your cat may have a sensitive stomach, talk to your vet.

The first thing they will likely recommend is a new diet that starts with Hill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat Food. This is one of the top cat foods recommended by vets for its many health benefits for cats of all ages. You’ll love how quickly this dry cat food can take care of your cat’s stomach. They will love the easy to digest formula and various flavors.

Finally there is a prescription answer to a healthy gut and a happy cat.


Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Dry Cat Food

Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Dry Cat Food
(rated 4.3 / 5)
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Every living thing requires a healthy diet, including your cat. People adore their cuddly companions, but cats are still wild animals in terms of their nutritional needs.

In nature cats are carnivores, which means in your home, their cat food should be mostly protein-based.

Protein can come in the form of both wet and dry food, but often wet food takes all the glory.

Don’t be fooled however, dry food is equally as important to your cat’s diet. Dry food has benefits for both you and your cat.

There are a variety of dry cat food brands to choose from. It typically comes in a kibble form and is catered to your cat’s nutritional needs.

Information

Blue Buffalo strives to be all natural, which is difficult to find in a world full of meat by-products and artificial flavors.

One of the top ten dry cat food brands is Blue Buffalo. Specifically their Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Dry Cat Food contains meat first and extra vitamins, minerals, and probiotics needed for optimal health. The Blue Buffalo brand features LifeSource Bits, which provide omegas, amino acids, and antioxidants, unlike other dry food.

While cats can consume a certain amount of grains, fruits, and vegetables, some forms of grains, gluten, and wheat by-products can be harmful for your cat’s digestive system and cause allergic reactions. That’s why Blue Buffalo’s dry food is always grain-free.

The indoor adult recipe contains fish, peas, and potatoes. Other ingredients include whitefish, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, flaxseed, whole carrots, cranberries, blueberries, apples, blackberries, pumpkin, spinach, and a variety of other natural ingredients.

brandBlue Buffalo
typeDry
size11 lbs
flavorFish
life stageAll ages
calories391 kcals / cup
balanced nutritionYes
high-quality proteinsYes
vitamins & mineralsYes
fibersYes
organicYes
grain-freeYes
gluten-freeYes
artificial preservativesNo
easy to digestYes

These ingredients combined with being grain-free are ideal for healthy digestion and carefully balance the calorie intake for your indoor cat. Proper calorie intake is important for indoor cats that tend to lead a less active lifestyle, and helps your cat maintain a healthy weight.

Blue Buffalo strives to be all natural, which is difficult to find in a world full of meat by-products and artificial flavors. Whether you choose the 5 lb. or 11 lb. bag, this grain free cat food is always all natural.

Your cat may be a wild animal by nature, but their food doesn’t have to be. Wild food does not mean low-quality food either. You should know exactly what goes into your cat’s food, just like you do your own food.

Pros

The AAFCO is the Association of American Feed Control Officials. It is important that the food you feed to your cat is never expired, and follows federal regulations.

When it comes to cat food ratings, Blue Buffalo is one of America’s leading brands. The quality ingredients and added health benefits are created with a unique formula only offered by Blue Buffalo. Buying dry cat food is easy when the benefits are so clear.

  • Grain-free for less allergens: Grain, gluten, and other wheat by-products commonly cause food allergies to develop in cats. Blue Buffalo is 100% grain-free, which makes it an ideal cat food for allergies. It also means your cat can enjoy their food, and you can be worry-free.
  • Meat is the first ingredient: Your little feline carnivore loves meat and fish, and this dry food is packed with it, starting with real fish. Real whitefish is not only a quality ingredient, but also provides the protein source needed to satisfy their cravings and give them energy.
  • Promotes healthy skin and fur: The unique LifeSource Bits as well as the real fish add the omega-3 and 6 fatty acids that are associated with healthy skin and a shiny coat. In addition, vision and heart health are well cared for with the taurine in this cat food.
  • Supports healthy digestion: The prebiotic fibers and probiotics added into every bite support healthy digestion and nutrient absorption. This means that while being easy on the stomach, it also ensures that your cat’s body absorbs all the right nutrients it can.
  • Encourages proper dental care: Periodontal disease is not restricted to humans. Cats can also develop bad breath and other more serious dental consequences. Kibble and dry food is able to clean the teeth by rubbing against dirty surfaces, as well as keeping them sharp.
  • AAFCO approved: The AAFCO is the Association of American Feed Control Officials. It is important that the food you feed to your cat is never expired, and follows federal regulations. With its all-natural ingredients, this dry cat food is highly approved.

Cons

Even an all-natural brand of dry cat food such as Blue Buffalo may have some drawbacks. All natural does not mean it’s all that your cat needs. With that in mind, the disadvantages of this dry food do not outweigh its quality.

  • Contains plant-based fillers: Even plant-based fillers are fillers nonetheless. These types of ingredients are generally used to increase the mass, but in turn can decrease the quality. Blue Buffalo Freedom contains less filler than other brands, but nonetheless, it still has some.
  • Relatively high level of carbohydrates: While there are no grains or added gluten, the amount of plant-based proteins used produces a relatively high amount of carbs. This amount of carbohydrates may be inappropriate for your cat.
  • Includes oil of rosemary: The label indicates that oil of rosemary is used. While rosemary oil is commonly used as a preservative for cat food, ingesting it might cause problems for your pet over the longer term.
 

Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Dry Cat FoodBlue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Dry Cat Food

Hill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat FoodHill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat Food

Purina Friskies Wet Cat FoodPurina Friskies Wet Cat Food

PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
brandBlue BuffaloHill's Pet NutritionPurina Friskies
typeDryDryWet
size11 lbs8.5 lbs13.75 lbs
flavorFishChickenChicken, whitefish, tuna, salmon, beef
life stageAll agesAll agesAll ages
calories391 kcals / cup508 kcal / cup127 kcal / can
balanced nutritionYesYesYes
high-quality proteinsYesYesYes
vitamins & mineralsYesYesYes
fibersYesYesYes
organicYesNoNo
grain-freeYesNoNo
gluten-freeYesNoNo
artificial preservativesNoYesYes
easy to digestYesYesYes

Summary

Dry food is ideal because it has a longer shelf life, is more cost-efficient, has dental benefits, and is often easier for pet owners to feed their cats.

There is much debate over the preference of wet versus dry cat food, but one thing that can be certain is that Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Dry Cat Food is one of the healthiest dry cat foods available.

Dry food is ideal because it has a longer shelf life, is more cost-efficient, has dental benefits, and is often easier for pet owners to feed their cats. Most vets will recommend a balance between wet and dry food. They also recommend leaving out a bowl of dry food throughout the day for your cat to snack on.

Like you, your cat wants to enjoy their food. As a pet owner, you want to feed your cat a balanced diet with a variety of health benefits. This dry food from Blue Buffalo will satisfy both of you.


Purina Friskies Wet Cat Food

Purina Friskies Wet Cat Food
(rated 4.8 / 5)
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In the wild, your cat gets all the nutrients it needs from the food it hunts. The cat food you buy should provide those nutrients too.

Cats need to consume all the food groups, from carbohydrates to protein. Do you know what’s in your cat’s food?

Cats are carnivores by definition. Protein is their main source of energy, but they still require other food groups for optimal health.

Pet nutritionists recommend a variety of grains, vegetables, and fruits, as long as your cat can digest them.

Your cat may have unique diet needs such as certain allergies, grain-free, or low or high calorie diets. The key is that their diet is balanced to meet their needs.

Information

The first five ingredients listed for any type of cat food indicate a lot about its nutritional value.

The best way to ensure your cat receives all the nutrients it needs is by choosing the right cat food brand.

Popular cat food brands include a variety of cuts, styles, flavors, and ingredients. The Purina Friskies Wet Cat Food shreds variety pack is one way to ensure your cat maintains a healthy diet.

This Purina Friskies variety pack comes in several different flavors including beef in gravy, turkey and cheese dinner, ocean whitefish and tuna in sauce, and chicken and salmon dinner in gravy. These varieties are approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). They meet federal regulations for nutritional levels for cats, from growing kittens to adult cats.

brandPurina Friskies
typeWet
size13.75 lbs
flavorChicken, whitefish, tuna, salmon, beef
life stageAll ages
calories127 kcal / can
balanced nutritionYes
high-quality proteinsYes
vitamins & mineralsYes
fibersYes
organicNo
grain-freeNo
gluten-freeNo
artificial preservativesYes
easy to digestYes

This variety pack includes 32 cans in one pack. It is also recommended for use with indoor cats. Unlike cat food high in calories, indoor cat food has a lower caloric count for cats with a less active lifestyle.

The first five ingredients listed for any type of cat food indicate a lot about its nutritional value. Purina Friskies shreds includes water, liver, chicken, beef, and what gluten. Additional ingredients are turkey, ocean fish, modified corn starch, soybean flour, added color, tricalcium phosphate, potassium chloride, and other natural and artificial flavors.

With these ingredients, this cat food satisfies several food groups including carbohydrates, fiber, fat, and protein. Together, they make up a complete and balanced diet, with preferred flavors as well. This Purina Friskies variety pack can be one of the best wet cat food brands for your cat.

Pros

Shredded cat food includes long, thin pieces of meat, served in light gravy.

Never again be forced to choose between nutrition and flavor. The Purina Friskies Wet Cat Food shreds variety pack is one of the top 10 cat food brands for best variety pack. Variety includes both ingredients and flavors for a meal your cat will love.

  • Animal based protein sources: The animal based protein sources include liver, chicken, beef, turkey, and fish. This is an excellent source of amino acids and mimics the protein your cat would receive in the wild. Protein provides the energy necessary for your growing cat.
  • Variety of ingredients: It can be hard for your indoor cat to enjoy the wide variety of ingredients that your cat would receive as an outdoor cat. This food includes a range of vitamins, minerals, meat, and other wholesome additions for an overall healthy diet.
  • Variety of tastes: Your cat will get bored quickly if it is fed the same food repeatedly. This includes pickiness and may result in refusal to eat. This variety pack includes various meats in addition to gravies and sauces for an additional layer of taste.
  • Moisture rich: The first ingredient in this cat food is water which is critical to allowing your cat to stay hydrated the way nature intended. The added gravies and sauces also give it unique moisture making it easier to digest than dry cat food.
  • Shredded food for sensitive stomachs: Shredded cat food includes long, thin pieces of meat, served in light gravy. In comparison to pate, morsels, and other cuts, shredded is the easiest on sensitive stomachs, even if your cat does not have a sensitive stomach yet.
  • AAFCO approved: You might think you’re putting goodness into your cat’s body, but unless it is federally approved, you may not be. This cat food is FDA approved and meets AAFCO standards, so you can be confident that your cat’s food is as healthy as it should be.

Cons

While not all cat food is perfect, this does not mean that the product is bad. There can easily be products that while FDA approved, are not beneficial for your particular cat’s health or that can aggravate certain cat food allergies.

  • Contains artificial food dyes: This product does contain artificial colors and dyes, such as red dye found in human food. It is FDA approved, but these dyes are not particularly necessary and, over time, could pose some health risks.
  • Contains questionable meat sources: Although beef and turkey are high quality meats in this food, some unknown animal by-products are also included. These by-products are usually low quality and used as inexpensive fillers. Almost every cat food brand includes some fillers, though, and the amount included in the Purina Friskies shreds does not invalidate its AAFCO approval.
  • Risk for causing allergies: Wheat gluten, soy flour, corn starch, and meat by-products are all ingredients that can cause or exacerbate existing or new food allergies. Wheat gluten is one of the top ingredients. If your cat is sensitive to gluten, you may want to find a different brand.
 

Purina Friskies Wet Cat FoodPurina Friskies Wet Cat Food

Hill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat FoodHill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat Food

Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Dry Cat FoodBlue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Dry Cat Food

PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
brandPurina FriskiesHill's Pet NutritionBlue Buffalo
typeWetDryDry
size13.75 lbs8.5 lbs11 lbs
flavorChicken, whitefish, tuna, salmon, beefChickenFish
life stageAll agesAll agesAll ages
calories127 kcal / can508 kcal / cup391 kcals / cup
balanced nutritionYesYesYes
high-quality proteinsYesYesYes
vitamins & mineralsYesYesYes
fibersYesYesYes
organicNoNoYes
grain-freeNoNoYes
gluten-freeNoNoYes
artificial preservativesYesYesNo
easy to digestYesYesYes

Summary

Certain cat food is recommended by vets and Purina Friskies Wet Cat Food is one of them.

You want your cat to be as healthy as possible, and what you feed them makes all the difference. Wet food is an excellent place to start. While both wet and dry food are nutritionally complete, wet food is easier to digest, contains water for hydration, and is easier on a cat’s teeth.

Certain cat food is recommended by vets and Purina Friskies Wet Cat Food is one of them. This shreds variety pack is moisture rich, high in protein, and easy on sensitive stomachs, making it good for digestion.

Your cat’s diet is meant to be as healthy and balanced as your own. This Purina Friskies cat food provides the nutrition that your cat needs in a variety of flavors that even the pickiest feline will enjoy.


Evolution Diet Dry Cat Food

Evolution Diet Dry Cat Food
(rated 4.9 / 5)
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If you’re a cat lover, then you know your cat can sometimes be more like a hunter than a pet. In the wild, cats are hunters that consume animal prey.

This also means they are obligate carnivores, and their diet is high in protein.

The question is: can cats survive without animal protein? Although cats may not naturally choose to eat meat-free, as pet owners you do have that option.

It would be difficult to feed your cat a diet filled with animal protein if you yourself are vegan or vegetarian.

Fortunately there is evidence that suggests that a vegan diet for cats is acceptable and may even extend their life expectancy.

Information

Vegan cat food is often hard to find, but Evolution cat food promises a 100% plant-based formula.

If you’re a pet owner that has been searching for a vegan, healthy cat food option for your feline companion, Evolution Diet Dry Cat Food may be the answer. This 40 lb. bag is available in gourmet fondue with delicious flavor.

The company was established in 1989 and has been dedicated to providing a healthier cat food option for cats in all stages of life. Whether you’re looking for kitten food or cat food for seniors, your cat can enjoy Evolution.

Vegan cat food is often hard to find, but Evolution cat food promises a 100% plant-based formula. This includes whole grains, vegetable proteins, and other natural vitamins, minerals, and ingredients.

brandEvolution Diet
typeDry
size40 lbs
flavorVegan
life stageAll ages
caloriesNot specified
balanced nutritionYes
high-quality proteinsYes
vitamins & mineralsYes
fibersYes
organicYes
grain-freeNo
gluten-freeNo
artificial preservativesYes
easy to digestYes

Specifically Evolution cat food features ingredients you won’t find in most options, such as brewer’s dried yeast, dried molasses, dehulled sunflower seeds, pea protein concentrate and whole dried peas, soybean meal as well as oil, tapioca, and real dried potatoes. These ingredients create a formula that is both delicious and nutritious, even for your pickiest eaters.

If this is the first time your cat is eating vegan cat food, be sure to introduce them gradually. It is recommended to mix the old and new food together at a ratio of 1:4 and then only the new food after at least two weeks.

Since this is a dry cat food, you may also add water for moisture and hydration. The kibble will expand in size, soften, and be easier to consume when submerged in water. Now you can give your cat the nutrition and hydration it needs for a healthy diet.

Pros

This food uses a condensed formula, which means it expands, tastes, and digests better with water.

Finding quality vegan cat food is rare. Finding quality vegan cat food that is 100% vegan and suitable for all cat ages, is even more rare. Evolution satisfies both. In comparison to other vegan cat food brands, Evolution will surprise you with its many nutritional advantages.

  • High 30% protein: When it comes to this cat food, not only is the protein 100% plant-based, but there is a high protein content, with 30% total protein. The protein comes from pea protein and whole dried peas, which means your pet gets the amino acids they need without the animal waste.
  • Non GMO: GMO stands for Genetically Modified Organisms. Typical cat food often contains steroid growth hormones, animal fat, and other unknown animal parts. With this cat food, you know exactly what your cat is eating, specifically non-GMO soybean meal and soybean oil for protein, amino acids, and vitamins.
  • Ideal for pets with allergies: Cats are often allergic to gluten and other grains. Both of these ingredients are found in typical cat food and may cause your cat to develop a cat food allergy. Evolution never includes these ingredients, making it hypoallergenic.
  • Cost effective: This food uses a condensed formula, which means it expands, tastes, and digests better with water. For cat owners, this means the food lasts longer and gives you better bang for your buck. Among the best dry cat food brands, this makes Evolution highly preferred.
  • Environmentally friendly: If you care about your cat being vegan, then you’ll also care about what kind of environmental footprint their food leaves behind. This cat food is environmentally friendly, producing less waste and leaving a smaller foot print than meat-based kibble.
  • AAFCO compliant: The AAFCO is the Association of American Feed Control Officials. They regulate the quality and ensure that even pet food is federally approved. Simply because its vegan does not mean that cat kibble follows all the regulations, but you can rest assured that this food does.

Cons

For vegans, it’s difficult to imagine that something that is plant-based has any cons at all. Some people believe that cats need meat, but truly cats just need protein. There may be disadvantages to every product on the market, but for this vegan cat food, they are few.

  • Meatless: Although Evolution is rated high for nutrition, it still lacks some protein content. While 30% is high compared to other vegan brands, cats require more than 30% protein. It would be wise to supplement with a canned cat food high in meat or protein, or use a supplement.
  • Less preferred taste: There are only a few vegan cat food options on the market, but you may find that others have a better taste for your cat. Cats will quickly tell you if they do not like or get tired of a certain flavor of food.
  • Additional moisture is recommended: This is a typical trait of dry cat food. Unlike wet food that is moist, dry cat food contains no moisture. This cat food should be combined with water to provide your cat with the hydration it needs.
 

Evolution Diet Dry Cat FoodEvolution Diet Dry Cat Food

Hill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat FoodHill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat Food

Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Dry Cat FoodBlue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Dry Cat Food

PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
brandEvolution DietHill's Pet NutritionBlue Buffalo
typeDryDryDry
size40 lbs8.5 lbs11 lbs
flavorVeganChickenFish
life stageAll agesAll agesAll ages
caloriesNot specified508 kcal / cup391 kcals / cup
balanced nutritionYesYesYes
high-quality proteinsYesYesYes
vitamins & mineralsYesYesYes
fibersYesYesYes
organicYesNoYes
grain-freeNoNoYes
gluten-freeNoNoYes
artificial preservativesYesYesNo
easy to digestYesYesYes

Summary

Even grains and gluten that seem harmless can cause cat food allergies for your pet.

Vegan is a lifestyle, and if you’re a vegan pet owner chances are you want your pets to be vegan too. Animal by-products used in typical cat food are often unknown, processed animal parts. If you wouldn’t put it in your body, your cat doesn’t need it either.

Even grains and gluten that seem harmless can cause cat food allergies for your pet. Evolution Diet Dry Cat Food is one of the rare, 100% plant-based cat food options that never uses grains or gluten.

Even if you don’t need your cat to be vegan, you do want them to be healthy. This cat food option will provide the health benefits your cat needs, without the worry and risk of feeding them what they don’t need.


Purina Fancy Feast Wet Cat Food

Purina Fancy Feast Wet Cat Food
(rated 4.6 / 5)
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You want your cat to be as healthy as possible, and it all starts with their diet. Cats require a structured diet throughout all stages of their life.

Their diet provides them with the energy they need as well as the metabolic requirements necessary to maintain their health and grow.

Sometimes their dietary needs may call for specialized cat food for diabetes, cat food for hairballs, or food created to help with other special needs. The important part is that the food you choose meets those needs.

Wet food is usually preferred over dry food because it provides the moisture that cats typically get from their prey in the wild.

Not all cat food is created the same and when it comes down to it, you want the most nutritious option.

Information

It is less expensive, does not have a history of recalls and has plenty of flavor options for even the pickiest cats.

Your cat’s nutrition solution now has a name and it’s Purina Fancy Feast Wet Cat Food. This cat food comes in 2 packs, each with 30 cans and 3 flavors. One pack includes beef and poultry, the other is a seafood grilled collection.

Each can is a total of 3 oz., which is the ideal portion of food for your feline. Among the best wet cat food, Purina Fancy Feast is a brand you can trust. It is less expensive, does not have a history of recalls and has plenty of flavor options for even the pickiest cats.

Purina Fancy Feast was established in 1982 as one of the first gourmet cat foods brands. Today, while it is still luxurious, it is also cost-effective. This cat food will make you feel good about what you serve your cat. It offers the essential vitamins and nutrients needed to support your cat’s health and wellness, with a taste they will love.

brandPurina
typeWet
size11.25 lbs
flavorSeafood, poultry, beef
life stageAdult
calories99 kcal / can
balanced nutritionYes
high-quality proteinsYes
vitamins & mineralsYes
fibersYes
organicNo
grain-freeNo
gluten-freeNo
artificial preservativesYes
easy to digestYes

Specifically, each can includes 70 kcal, 11% protein, 1.5% fiber, and up to 80% moisture. The moisture is especially what you need to keep your cat healthy.

Fancy Feast includes a variety of ingredients from anchovies, beef, chicken, and liver, to long grain rice, beef tallow, cheese and carrots. These ingredients vary depending on the flavor, but are meant to be wholesome and healthy.

Many brands claim they are the healthiest wet cat food, but Fancy Feast is backed by actual pet nutrition authority, for a truly nutritious option for your cat.

Pros

You can trust that you’re feeding your cat the best ingredients possible. All the ingredients are real, wholesome, and easy to pronounce.

Good pet owners want to know exactly what is in their cat’s food. Most wet foods offer even more benefits than dry food. When shopping for wet food, protein and moisture are key qualities to look for. This food has substantial amounts of both as well as several other benefits.

  • Ideal amount of calories: With obesity being a major concern for cats, it is important that their food offers a healthy amount of calories. These cat food cans are ideally sized with 70 kcalories per can. These calories provide ample energy, while not encouraging your cat to overeat.
  • Substantial protein: Since your cat is no longer living in the wild, they still need to consume enough protein for a healthy diet. This cat food contains 11% protein, which is particularly high for wet food. Without substantial protein, your cat may develop a wide-range of health problems.
  • Moisture rich: Cats don’t typically drink water, but they need it. In nature, cats get their water from the prey they catch. When feeding them manufactured food, the more moisture, the better. This cat food has up to 80% moisture, perfect for your pet.
  • Proper dietary fat: Some fats are good for your feline. They help digestion, improve the skin and fur coat, slow the growth of yeast infections, maintain healthy blood pressure, and more. Fortunately, there is more dietary fat in this food than others.
  • Whole ingredients: You can trust that you’re feeding your cat the best ingredients possible. All the ingredients are real, wholesome, and easy to pronounce. The main ingredients include all the ones your cat loves starting with chicken, beef, and turkey, all smothered in gravy.
  • Grain-free: Whether or not your cat has food allergies, they may quickly develop when grains and gluten are added to their food. This wet cat food never includes grains or gluten, making it hypoallergenic even for the most sensitive cats.

Cons

Even the best of foods may still have a few drawbacks. It is important to ensure that the food your serve your cat doesn’t have any surprises that you or your cat should worry about. Here are a few potential shortfalls to be aware of.

  • Some questionable ingredients: You’ll love most things that go into this cat food, but you might not love everything. Some controversial ingredients can be found such as animal digest, vegetable oil, poultry giblets, and liver which are not generally recommended.
  • Unnecessary additives: Although this wet dry food strives to be wholesome, there are some ingredients including: Blue 2, Red 40, Yellow 5, as well as menadione sodium bisulfate complex. While these may be used in several cat foods, the truth is they’re not needed.
  • Protein sources could be better: This wet food contains up to 50% protein, but the source of that protein is not always clear. Chicken or beef listed first is good, but the poultry or meat broth that’s listed second is vague, and meat by-products is an overly broad term that sometimes includes animal parts that are not the most beneficial.
 

Purina Fancy Feast Wet Cat FoodPurina Fancy Feast Wet Cat Food

Hill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat FoodHill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat Food

Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Dry Cat FoodBlue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Dry Cat Food

PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
brandPurinaHill's Pet NutritionBlue Buffalo
typeWetDryDry
size11.25 lbs8.5 lbs11 lbs
flavorSeafood, poultry, beefChickenFish
life stageAdultAll agesAll ages
calories99 kcal / can508 kcal / cup391 kcals / cup
balanced nutritionYesYesYes
high-quality proteinsYesYesYes
vitamins & mineralsYesYesYes
fibersYesYesYes
organicNoNoYes
grain-freeNoNoYes
gluten-freeNoNoYes
artificial preservativesYesYesNo
easy to digestYesYesYes

Summary

Wet cat food should be moisture-rich and protein packed and this Purina Fancy Feast is both.

If you’ve been wondering what is the best cat food for your cat, Purina Fancy Feast Wet Cat Food may be the answer. This food comes from a well-established company. They offer a variety of cat food choices, and this wet food is a substantial option.

Wet cat food should be moisture-rich and protein packed and this Purina Fancy Feast is both. Your cat will enjoy the 6 different flavors while you have peace of mind that you are feeding your feline all the right ingredients. These ingredients are also non-GMO, AAFCO approved, and 100% Earth-friendly.

For once you can feel good about what you are feeding your cat, and feel good about the planet too. Can your old cat food do that?

Buying Guide

Quality Sources of Protein

You wouldn’t want to eat food riddled with fillers and synthetic ingredients every single day, so why would you let your beloved pet eat food made with iffy ingredients and low-quality standards?

Always make it a point to look at the nutrition label and ingredients list at the back of the packaging before you buy cat or kitten food. All felines are carnivores therefore require animal protein. The best cat food contains ingredients such as chicken, beef, or fish and will not include fillers such as soy protein.

Vitamin Enriched Food

Just like humans, cats and other pets also need to eat nutritious food that contains enough calories and vitamins for healthy growth and optimal function.

Cats need taurine for all their bodily functions, and it is an amino acid only found in animal protein. In order to maintain their sharp eyesight and reflexes, cat food should also contain vitamins A, B, and E. For healthy bones and a strong immune system, look for cat food enriched with calcium and vitamins C and D.

Cats with Special Needs

If you are an owner of multiple cats, you would agree that no two cats are the same. Cats of different breeds, ages, sizes, and sexes each have their own unique needs. Some cats are even born with genetic defects which require more specialized care.

It’s best to work with your cat’s veterinarian for any special dietary needs. The vet will be able to give you a customized diet plan with specific foods to buy (that you can actually find) so your cat will be happy and healthy for years to come.

Choosing Food for Kittens

If your cat is less than one year old, it is still considered a kitten. Because kittens are not fully matured both physically and neurologically as compared to adult cats, their dietary needs have special demands.

The best cat food for kittens should contain DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid), folic acid, and other vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to promote optimal brain and nerve development which are critical during a kitten’s first several months of life.

Food for Older Cats

At the latter end of the age spectrum, older cats have their own needs that differ significantly from both kittens and early adult cats. Senior cats, over the age of 10 years, may lose their usual appetite due to diminished taste buds or have trouble eating due to weak gums and loss of teeth.

The best cat food for older cats should be easy to chew and digest. Dry food with smaller sized or even wetted kibble is easier on older teeth. Mixing wet with dry food is also a good option.

Cats with Food Allergies

It’s common for people to be allergic to cats, but did you know that cats can have allergies too? Look out for itching, fur thinning, and diarrhea. Itching due to allergies may get so severe that a cat cone may be necessary.

The best cat food for cats with allergies does not contain grains, soy, or artificial ingredients. Cats can be allergic to plant-based or non-meat proteins which can cause inflammation, malabsorption, and nutritional deficiencies. The best cat food is natural because it is less likely to cause allergies.

Diet Foods

It may be cute seeing a fat cat like Garfield, however real cats can suffer immensely from being overfed. Cats are meant to be agile and active and have smaller, lighter body frames in order to achieve their sharp reflexes and flexibility.

The best cat food for overweight cats contains the right amount of protein for their size and age. It also contains less saturated fat and carbs to prevent excessive weight gain. Portion control and regular exercise should also be practiced.

Undesired Weight Loss

Although overweight cats carry several health risks, excessive or undesired weight loss in your cat can be just as bad. If your cat’s eating habits change, frequently vomits, and has changes in bowel movements, these may lead to malnutrition.

First, consult with a vet to determine if your cat has any allergies or illness. Cat flea treatment and deworming may be in order and can be done at home. The best cat food for cats that throw up or suffer with diarrhea should provide additional nutrients in order to replenish what was lost.

Wet Food

Wet cat food typically comes packaged in aluminum cans or plastic pouches. This type of cat food provides a more “real food” feel, better replicating the flavor, smell, and texture of fresh meat.

Wet cat food comes pre-portioned, so it is ideal for feeding one cat a complete meal. Cats of all sizes and ages can enjoy wet food because there is less strain on the teeth. Cats who are not interested in eating dry food will more likely eat wet food.

Dry Food

Dry food comes in boxes or plastic sacks of various volumes and flavors. Typically, dry cat food is a mix of an array of bite-sized shapes with individual flavors that provides a tasty blend that will entice even the pickiest of cats.

If you own multiple cats or use an automatic food dispenser, dry cat food is ideal. Once the bag is opened, it can be resealed and stored safely for weeks to months, so buying in bulk can save you both time and money.

Flavors of Cat Food

Felines are known to have acute senses of hearing, smelling, and seeing, but less often highlighted is their sense of taste. While containing a smaller number of taste buds, a cat’s tongue is unique and equipped with highly specialized taste buds.

Cats are carnivores and have a taste palate that is different from omnivores such as humans and dogs. Because of this, cats tend to snub food that is sweet or contains vegetables and gravitate toward more savory flavors such as roasted chicken, steaks, and salmon.

Kittie Treats

Everyone deserves a treat every now and then, and this of course, includes our feline friends! Cats enjoy receiving treats and using treats as a form of reward during behavioral training and while teaching them tricks or training them to walk with a cat leash and harness is an effective way to give positive reinforcement.

Snacks should be bite-sized morsels packed with protein. Giving bits of human food like table scraps from a chicken dinner may seem like a good idea, but keep in mind that cats do not digest cooked human food the same way we do.

Feeding Multiple Cats

Although cats are highly independent pets, they can get lonely too. Having multiple cats living in your home can be a lot of fun but requires more dedication to ensure that they all get an equal amount of attention and care.

It takes trial and error to find the best cat food in order to satisfy the individual tastes of your cats. Placing food bowls in a cat cage or cat carrier can help separate your cats during feeding time.

Outdoor vs. Indoor Cats

Outdoor cats enjoy being free to act upon their instincts of hunting small prey. These cats are still fed cat food when they return home, however they have access to freshly caught meat in the form of bugs, rodents, and birds. Outdoor cat food should be full of nutrients to fuel their adventures.

Indoor cats on the other hand tend to be more sedentary. The best cat food for indoor cats should contain protein and just enough fat and carbs to sustain their less demanding energy needs.

What’s in the box?

As they say, “what goes in, must come out”, and this applies to your cat as well. With the proper nutrition, your cat will have daily droppings left in the litter box. What you find in the litter box can give you the scoop on the quality of the cat food.

Dry, pellet-like droppings are hard to pass and are often accompanied by constipation. The best cat food for constipation is wet food or a mix of wet and dry cat food, along with proper hydration.

Hill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat Food
Our pick for the best cat food is: Hill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat Food. This choice was made after spending 39 hours researching cat foods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to buy the most expensive cat food to ensure its quality?

Always remember that all cat food is not created equal! Certain brands of cat food can be more expensive than others due to the quality of the ingredients and extra costs due to packaging design and advertisements.

Just because something is expensive does not always mean it is of higher quality. Make it a habit to read the labels and ingredients list before making a purchase. Testimonials and cat food recommendations are available on the internet; however the best indicator of quality is a healthy cat with a good appetite.

How long does cat food last?

The shelf life of cat food is dependent on the type and storage method of the food. Dry food is made for storing for longer periods of time, both when the seal is intact or broken. It can be stored in its original bag or transferred to an air-tight container for several months.

Wet cat food on the other hand must be kept sealed until it is chow time. Cans and pouches give wet food a shelf life of years, but once opened should be consumed immediately.

My cat won’t eat the food I give it, what should I do?

Cats can be picky eaters at times, which is normal. Getting a new flavor or formulation of cat food may fix the problem. Mixing wet and dry food is another way to make cat food more appetizing to your feline friend.

If your cat still won’t go near its food bowl, it would be prudent to pay a visit to the veterinarian. Oftentimes refusal to eat is a sign of illness or social distress. The vet would be able to identify the problem and offer treatment options.

I’ve noticed that my cat is becoming heavier and less active, what should I do?

Chunky cats are cute, however, they are not exempt from the negative effects of obesity. The increase in body weight makes your cat easily fatigued and takes a toll on their joints.

Practice portion control and feed your cat at regular intervals. Reduce your cat’s weight by encouraging time away from the cat bed with a cat scratching post or cat scratching pad to keep them active and maintain nail length.

I have a busy schedule, what can I use to help care for my cat?

Like many people, you probably work nine-to-five to provide for yourself and your family. However, your cat may end up missing a few meals if you need to do overtime at the office!

Invest in an automatic cat feeder to ensure your kitty doesn’t starve. For unwanted “gifts”, a normal cat litter box with cat litter may not be enough. An automatic cat litter box with a cat litter mat will keep your home fresh. A cat tree can also keep your cat entertained while you’re away.

Hill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat Food
Our pick for the best cat food is: Hill’s Digestive Care Dry Cat Food. This choice was made after spending 39 hours researching cat foods.

Sources

  1. Dry cat food, National Institutes of Health, Nov 1, 2007
  2. Philippines: 2017 Dog and Cat Food Brief, USDA Foreign Agricultural Service, Jul 26, 2017
  3. Pet Food Safety, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Feb 12, 2018
  4. Nationwide recall of certain cat food products due to potential health risk to pets, Georgia Department of Agriculture, Jun 15, 2015
  5. Cat food, Wikipedia
  6. How Often Should You Feed Your Cat?, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
  7. Research Update: New insight into grain-free cat diets, Clinical Nutrition Service, Jul 3, 2017
  8. Food for Thought on Cat Food, Veterinary Medicine at Illinois, May 6, 2013
  9. Choosing Dry or Wet Food for Cats Makes Little Difference, University of Missouri, Nov 28, 2007
  10. From Cat Food to Sushi Counter: The Strange Rise of the Bluefin Tuna, Smithsonian, Sep 11, 2013

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