A bag of cat food or a box of wet food may seem like an easy choice. However, products can vary considerably in ingredients, serving size, texture and suitability for different life stages. For example, a cheerful picture of chicken on the packaging does not automatically mean that chicken is the main ingredient. Terms such as “for indoor cats” or “for sterilised cats” should also be considered alongside the nutritional analysis and feeding guidelines.
In this guide, you’ll learn what to look for in wet cat food, dry cat food, kitten food and senior cat food. This will help you avoid paying too much for a product that does not suit your cat’s age, activity level or eating preferences.
If the front of the pack says “cat food with chicken”, check the label to see how much chicken has actually been added. For some products, “with chicken” means, according to the legally required description, that at least a certain percentage of the named animal ingredient is present. The remainder may consist of other animal by-products, cereals, vegetable protein extracts, minerals and oils.
So always compare the ingredients rather than relying only on the prominent flavour image on the packaging.
“Complete pet food” means, according to the product information, that the food is intended to be given as a complete daily diet when you follow the recommended quantity. A complementary product is intended to be given alongside other cat food. This distinction is important for products such as fillets, broth or treats.
For example, the Sheba Fillets products in this selection are described as a complementary meal or treat. So do not automatically use them as your cat’s only daily food.
A cat food multipack or 10 kg bag can be practical for households with several cats, but only if your cat eats the product well and it remains suitable. With wet food, pay attention to how long it can be stored after opening. According to the product information, Felix advises keeping opened portions refrigerated and using them within 24 hours. Larger tins or trays may have different instructions on the label.
A low price per pack does not necessarily mean a low actual cost. Calculate the price per meal or per 100 grams, and check the daily feeding recommendations.
Start by choosing a product that matches your cat’s age and circumstances:
Wet cat food generally contains a high proportion of moisture and is sold in pouches, trays or tins. Jelly, sauce, pâté and mousse also offer different eating experiences. A cat that leaves chunks behind may accept mousse or pâté instead.
Dry food is easy to measure and remains fresh for a long time after opening, provided it is kept sealed and dry. Do pay attention to the serving size, though: kibble is more energy-dense than wet food. IAMS Cat Adult Chicken 10 kg is a large bag of dry food for adult cats. According to the product description, this formula contains fresh chicken, omega 3 and 6, taurine and a fibre blend with prebiotics and beet pulp. These brand claims come from IAMS’ own product information.
At a minimum, check:
If you change to a different cat food, make the transition gradually over several days. Keep an eye on your cat’s weight, stools and appetite. If your cat has a known medical condition, food sensitivity or a noticeable change in eating habits, it is wiser to consult a vet than to experiment on your own.
Why it suits this profile: The multipack contains 44 portions of 85 grams in a variety of flavours, making it a convenient way to discover an adult cat’s preferences.
The portion size and total contents are clearly stated. However, check the ingredients and daily feeding guidance before buying in bulk.
Complete food for adult cats according to the product information; individual pouches are easy to portion.
Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, this dry food is specifically intended for sterilised cats and lists 38% crude protein and 16% crude fat.
The target group, ingredients and daily quantities for each weight category are specified. This means you do not have to rely solely on the wording on the packaging.
Grain-free formula according to the product description; available in a small 300-gram pack so you can try it first.
Why it suits this profile: The large bag of dry food is suitable for households with several adult cats or a consistent daily usage.
The packaging clearly states the weight and target group. Keep the bag securely sealed to preserve quality and freshness.
87% animal protein according to IAMS’ own product information; with fresh chicken and a fibre blend containing prebiotics and beet pulp.
Why it suits this profile: The portion pouches and age-specific feeding guidelines make this practical for kittens that have several meals a day.
The packaging clearly identifies the product as kitten food. The label provides quantities for kittens of different ages.
Complete wet food for kittens according to the product information; 12 individual pouches of 85 grams.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
It depends on your cat’s preferences, the serving size and its overall diet. Wet food has a high moisture content and is available in a range of textures. Dry food is easy to store and measure. You can combine both, provided the total quantity is appropriate for the feeding guidelines.
The right amount depends on body weight, age, activity level and the type of food. For example, products in this selection give a guideline of several pouches of wet food per day for a cat weighing around 4 kg. Always use the label as your starting point and adjust the portion if your cat’s weight changes.
Follow the instructions on the packaging. According to the product information, Felix advises keeping opened portions refrigerated and using them within 24 hours. Other products state a maximum of two days. Cover the food, store it in the fridge and preferably serve it at room temperature.