Top 10 Healthiest Cat Foods in 2024 (Top Ingredients & Brands)
However, you should not interpret the higher protein content to mean that the formula contains more meat, as this isn’t the case. It’s a bit misleading, especially since peas may be associated with some health conditions. Cats wouldn’t naturally consume peas in the wild, either.
The other ingredients in this formula are high-quality, including chicken and chicken liver. It’s also pretty high in moisture, which can help cats prevent urinary tract infections. However, it’s very expensive, and it doesn’t provide many added benefits for the cost.
- High in protein
- High water content
- Includes chicken liver, a nutritious organ meat
- Very expensive
- Includes lots of peas
Buyer’s Guide: Selecting the Healthiest Cat Foods
There are several things to consider when purchasing healthy cat food for your feline. However, how healthy a cat food is comes down to a few things.
Protein
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require meat for optimal health. Essential nutrients like taurine and arachidonic acid are exclusively found in meat sources. Throughout their evolutionary history, cats have been predators with a diet predominantly composed of protein, followed by moderate fat and minimal carbohydrates.
When choosing cat food, prioritize those with named meat sources listed first in the ingredients. Look for meats like beef, chicken, or salmon, indicating higher quality. Be cautious of foods that contain generic terms like “meat by-products” or “poultry,” as they often include less desirable animal parts mixed in the food.