Choosing the right cat food – Tips and best options
Paying attention to your cat’s nutrition is crucial to maintaining their health and quality of life. With so many options available in the market, choosing the right brand and kind of food can require some consideration. Ensuring the right food for pets can go a long way as a form of preventative healthcare and help you bring down medical costs in the future. Here are some tips that can help you improve your cat’s health:
Choose balanced meals
You should read the cat food labels to look for more balanced options for your cat. Many cat food packages also have a statement from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) that states that the product meets all the nutritional guidelines for cats.
Limit homemade food
If you choose to feed homemade foods to your cat, make sure that you speak to their veterinarian to create a balanced meal plan. Avoid feeding them anything that may be even mildly toxic for them, such as dairy, chocolate, caffeinated products, grapes, raisin, onions, garlic, and chives.
Consider health issues
If your cat has health concerns, it is important to be cognizant of the same when picking or making their food.
Gradually transition to a new food
Sudden changes in eating habits can make cats have an upset stomach or diarrhea. Be sure to introduce any new foods gradually.
Ensure hydration
Cats are not inclined towards drinking water on their own. Consider investing in a water fountain, as the movement of water is attractive to them and may help your pet stay hydrated.
Best options
Cat food costs anywhere between $180 to $870 annually. The cost can vary depending on the brand, quantity, and type of food. If you are looking for top-notch cat food, here are some brands and types to choose from:
Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Chicken Entree: This product meets all the nutritional requirements for healthy adult cats without any special needs. It is a high-protein, moderate-fat, and fiber-rich gravy wet cat food that costs $48 for a pack of 24 cans and causes minimal gastrointestinal issues, making it a great choice for your feline.
Weruva Paw Lickin’ Chicken: For cats that prefer meat-in-gravy formulas, Weruva is a great high-protein, low-carb food option. It costs $47 for 24 cans of food and is a highly nutritious option.
Fancy Feast Gravy Lovers Poultry & Beef Feast Variety Pack: If you are in the market for less expensive cat food variants, you may be interested in checking out the Fancy Feast Gravy Lovers collection’s poultry and beef variants. This variety pack is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it a nutritious option, especially for those on a budget. It is a wet food variant with meat-in-gravy and costs only $24 for a pack of 30 cans.
Tiki Cat Puka Puka Luau Succulent Chicken Consomme: This product has a very high protein content, low-fat content, and is low in carbohydrates. It comes in a can and is a great option for cats with a palate for chunkier foods. A 12-pack of the Tiki Cat Chicken Consomme costs $24.
Royal Canin Feline Digestive Care Dry Cat Food: If your cat has a sensitive stomach, Royal Canin Dry Cat Food is the best option. It contains easily digestible proteins, prebiotics, and psyllium husk to promote gastrointestinal health and bowel function.