Joybuy Insights

Choosing cat food without costly mistakes: look out for these features

Attractive packaging and a low price say little about whether cat food is suitable. Multipacks and snacks are particularly prone to the same costly mistakes: you buy a large quantity of a flavour your cat does not like, mistake complementary food for a complete meal or pay extra for claims that are not clearly supported on the label.

Use these checks to compare wet cat food, cat food in jelly, cat food in gravy and cat treats more practically.

Three common pitfalls when buying cat food

1. A larger pack is not always better value

A cat food multipack can reduce the cost per serving, but only if your cat eats all the varieties. When trying a new flavour, a small pack is the wiser choice. Also check the weight per pouch, tray or tin. For example, 20 sticks weighing 14 grams each may sound like a lot, but together they contain 280 grams.

2. A treat does not replace a main meal

Churu cat treats and other liquid treats are usually complementary pet food. They are intended as a reward, topper or extra treat, not as a daily main food. Always check whether the packaging says “complete food” or “complementary food”.

3. Marketing claims can sometimes disguise the ingredients

“With chicken” or “with tuna” does not automatically mean that the product consists mainly of chicken or tuna. Check the ingredients list and the stated percentage. Some varieties, for example, list just 4% of the named animal ingredient. This is verifiable information and gives you a clearer picture than a flavour name on the front of the pack.

Which specifications should you check?

Complete or complementary food

For a daily meal, choose a product described as complete food for adult cats. Products such as Perfect Fit Natural Vitality Adult Cat Food Sea Fish & Salmon MP, Felix Every Day Feast Mix Selection in Jelly and various Gourmet and Sheba products are described as complete wet food for adult cats.

INABA Churu products, on the other hand, are described as complementary treats. Use them alongside your cat’s main food and take the recommended quantity into account. The Churu Tuna & Chicken variety, for example, recommends a maximum of 6 calories per tube. The exact daily amount depends on your cat’s weight, age, activity level and the rest of its diet.

Moisture content and texture

Wet food generally contains a high proportion of moisture. This can be useful for cats that do not drink much from a bowl, but it is not a reason to withhold fresh drinking water. According to the product descriptions, various Churu varieties contain 91% moisture, while the Skin & Coat multipack lists 86%. Felix Jelly contains 82% moisture and Sheba Delicacies in Jelly 85%.

Texture is also important:

  • Cat food in jelly: suitable for cats that accept soft pieces and a firm jelly texture.
  • Cat food in gravy: handy for cats that enjoy licking up moist gravy.
  • Mousse: a smooth texture, as found in Gourmet Gold Mousse.
  • Liquid cat treats: suitable as a hand-fed reward or topper, but usually not complete.

Ingredients, energy and serving size

Compare protein, fat, moisture and the ingredients list per 100 grams or per serving. A low fat percentage does not automatically mean that a product is suitable for every cat. For cats that need fewer calories, low-calorie cat treats can be practical, but treats must still be included in the total daily allowance.

“Grain-free cat food” may be a preference, but on its own it does not indicate whether a product is complete. The INABA Skin & Coat multipack and several Churu varieties are described as grain-free. Also check which ingredients are used instead, such as tapioca starch or vegetable oils.

Our recommendations for different types of cat owner

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Felix Every Day Feast Mix Selection in Jelly 12 x 85g

Felix Every Day Feast Mix Selection in Jelly 12 x 85g

Why it suits this profile: A variety pack with portioned pouches makes it easy to try several flavours without immediately buying a large quantity of one variety.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The 12 portions of 85 grams help limit waste if your cat leaves a particular flavour. The product description states that it is complete food for adult cats.

Main benefit & advantages

Variety in jelly, 82% moisture according to the product information and clearly portioned servings for everyday use.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking premium quality
Perfect Fit Natural Vitality Adult Cat Food Sea Fish & Salmon MP

Perfect Fit Natural Vitality Adult Cat Food Sea Fish & Salmon MP

Why it suits this profile: An option for those who prioritise complete wet food, small portions and a grain-free recipe for adult cats, according to the product description.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The complete wet food designation helps avoid confusion with a snack. Check the current packaging for the full ingredients and feeding guidelines.

Main benefit & advantages

Small portions, fish as the recipe choice and, according to the product description, at least 95% protein from animal sources.

Suitable for: Specific uses & frequent users
INABA Churu Multipack Tuna & Chicken 50 pcs.

INABA Churu Multipack Tuna & Chicken 50 pcs.

Why it suits this profile: Handy for cat owners who regularly use a reward, topper or liquid treat and want to alternate between several flavours.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The packaging clearly states that these are complementary treats. This makes it less likely that you will use the sticks as a complete meal.

Main benefit & advantages

50 tubes, 91% moisture and, according to the product information, 6 calories per treat. Store opened tubes according to the label.

Suitable for: Households with several cats
Gourmet Perle Sauce Delight Beef, Chicken, Tuna & Salmon Multipack

Gourmet Perle Sauce Delight Beef, Chicken, Tuna & Salmon Multipack

Why it suits this profile: This multipack combines meat and fish flavours in individual portions, making it easier to offer variety in a household with several cats.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The portions help limit leftovers once opened. The product description states that it is complete food for adult cats; check each cat’s individual feeding needs.

Main benefit & advantages

12 pouches of 85 grams, four flavour options and, according to the product information, no added artificial colourings, preservatives or flavourings.

Looking for more options?

We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Practical buying tips for your home

  • Introduce a new flavour gradually and buy a small pack first.
  • Check that the food is intended for adult cats, not kittens.
  • Store unopened packs in a cool, dry place.
  • Cover opened wet food, store it in the fridge and follow the storage period stated on the label.
  • Serve wet food at room temperature if your cat is less willing to eat it when cold.
  • Keep treats within the recommended amount; for INABA Churu, a maximum of 10% of the daily calorie intake is given as a guideline.
  • Always provide fresh drinking water, even when feeding hydrating cat food.

Frequently asked questions about cat food

What is the difference between wet cat food and cat treats?

Wet cat food can be complete food and form part of your cat’s daily meals. Cat treats, such as Churu, are usually complementary food. They must not replace the main meal. Always check the legal product description and nutritional designation on the packaging.

How long does opened cat food stay fresh?

This varies by product. Much wet food should be covered, stored in the fridge and used within 24 to 48 hours. According to the product information, liquid treats can sometimes be consumed within 24 hours of opening. Always follow the instructions on your pack’s label.

Is cat food in jelly or gravy suitable for every cat?

Not necessarily. Cats can have very different preferences when it comes to texture and flavour. Choose jelly, gravy, mousse or pâté based on what your cat accepts, while also checking that the product is complete. If your cat has specific dietary needs, consulting a vet is advisable.