What to look for in dry cat foods
When shopping for the best dry cat food for your kitten, adult, or senior cat, you’ll want to consider the following criteria:
AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement: The most basic measure of nutritionally complete cat food is an AAFCO statement on the label. AAFCO is a nonprofit organization that defines standard nutritional requirements for pet food and animal feed. Food with an AAFCO statement for growth or all life stages is guaranteed complete and balanced for kittens, while food with an AAFCO statement for maintenance or all life stages is guaranteed complete and balanced for adults that cat
Guaranteed analysis and nutrient profiles: Guaranteed analysis consists of the percentages of protein, fat, and other essential 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 such as taurine, fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins.
To compare the nutrients in wet food to those in dry food, convert the percentage of fat, protein, and fiber in the wet food to a “dry matter basis.” You can use these directions from Tufts University Cummings Veterinary Medical Center, call the food manufacturer, or ask your veterinarian for help.
Main ingredients: Ingredients on a pet food label appear in order of weight. Since cats are obligate carnivores, protein in the form of whole meat or meat meal should be first on the list of ingredients.
Expert formulations: For this guide, we’ve prioritized brands with dedicated nutrition experts on staff, who adhere to World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) guidelines and our experts’ guidance. We also selected brands that are active in small animal nutrition research, as well as brands that work with universities and colleges.
Manufacturing standards: When choosing a brand of cat food, consider a manufacturer’s quality control measures and the types of facilities they use. For example, manufacturers who own their plants have more control over the ingredients in the recipe and the food your cat eats. Just remember that it’s not enough for a brand to say they practice quality control. Pet food companies must 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 takes a lot of energy. Therefore, kittens should eat plenty of food each 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.
When cats reach their adult years, the amount of food they should eat depends on their weight, energy level, breed, and general health. Your veterinarian can offer more detailed and personalized guidance about how many calories your cat needs each day.
