There is a huge choice of cat food: pouches, trays, kibble, multipacks, kitten food and varieties for sterilised cats. However, eye-catching packaging says little about whether a product is suitable for your cat. The right choice starts with your cat’s life stage, the type of food and the nutritional information on the label.
A creamy liquid treat may be appealing, but it is not automatically suitable as a main food. Felix Deli Moments Salmon, for example, is described as complementary pet food for adult and senior cats. According to the product information, one 10-gram sachet per day is intended as a treat. Do not give this instead of complete cat food.
Words such as “premium”, “natural” or “with meat” do not tell the whole story. Check:
According to Purina’s own information, Purina One Sterilcat contains an adjusted protein-to-fat ratio and balanced minerals for sterilised or neutered adult cats, for example. This is a brand claim and not a general guarantee for every cat. Always compare the label and feeding guidelines.
A cat food offer or cat food multipack can reduce the cost per portion. However, a large bag of dry food or a box containing lots of pouches is less economical if your cat refuses the flavour. When trying a new variety, start with a small pack or switch gradually by mixing the new food with the food your cat is used to.
Cat food for adult cats is intended for mature animals. A kitten has different nutritional needs from an adult or older cat. Choose kitten food for young cats and check the age from which the product is intended when selecting senior cat food. Varieties with an adjusted composition are available for sterilised cats, such as Purina One Sterilcat.
If you are concerned about your cat’s weight, illness, allergies or a special diet, it is sensible to consult a vet. Do not use a product claim as a substitute for personalised nutritional advice.
Wet cat food usually comes in pouches, trays or tins and contains relatively high levels of moisture. This can be useful for cats that do not drink much from a water bowl, but always check the storage instructions after opening. Individual portion pouches help limit leftovers and waste.
Dry cat food is easy to measure out and store. Pay particular attention to the daily amount, as kibble contains little moisture and is more energy-dense per gram than much wet food. Always provide fresh drinking water.
A combination of wet and dry food can be convenient, but adjust the portions accordingly. The feeding guide on the packaging is a starting point; age, weight, activity level and body condition all make a difference.
If the label states complete and balanced cat food, the product is, according to the product information, intended as daily food for the specified animal species and life stage. A complementary product, such as a soup or liquid treat, is intended to be given alongside the main meal.
Grain-free cat food contains no grains, but that does not automatically mean it is more suitable for every cat. Look at the overall composition too. Farmina N&D Pumpkin Cat Venison and Farmina N&D Prime Cat Chicken are described as grain-free complete foods. If your cat has allergies, you should also check the full ingredients list; “grain-free” does not rule out other sensitivities.
Why it suits this profile: A multipack containing 12 85-gram pouches offers a range of varieties in one pack and is practical for everyday portions.
The portion packaging prevents an opened large tray from being left standing for too long. However, check whether your cat accepts the vegetable varieties.
According to the product information, this is complete cat food for adult cats, with 12 pouches and several flavours.
Why it suits this profile: This compact dry food is aimed at owners who want to compare a grain-free recipe and detailed nutritional information.
The product information lists the composition, analytical values and feeding guidelines. This allows you to compare the figures rather than relying on packaging claims alone.
According to the product description, this is complete food with chicken, 36% protein, 20% fat and added taurine.
Why it suits this profile: This variety is specifically labelled for sterilised or neutered adult cats and comes in a resealable 800-gram bag.
The target group is clearly stated. This prevents you from choosing standard food without taking into account the changed nutritional needs following sterilisation.
According to the product information, it contains 37% protein, 13% fat and a feeding chart based on body weight.
Why it suits this profile: This kitten food is available in several flavours and portion pouches, so you can spread the daily amount across multiple meals.
The packaging explicitly states that this is complete food for kittens. This helps prevent you from giving adult cat food to a young cat.
The product information includes portion guidelines for kittens aged 3 to 12 months, along with taurine and vitamins.
We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Not necessarily. Wet food contains plenty of moisture and comes in convenient portions. Dry food lasts longer once opened and is easy to weigh out. Suitability mainly depends on the overall composition, your cat’s life stage and the amount you feed.
Always follow the label. Products in pouches are often intended to be served immediately. Opened wet food should usually be covered, stored in the fridge and used within the stated time. Store dry cat food in a cool, dry place in a tightly sealed container. The exact shelf life after opening may vary from product to product.
Compare the price per 100 grams or per portion, rather than just the pack price. A cat food multipack or special offer can be good value when your cat already knows and likes the flavour. Also check whether the food is complete or complementary, and adjust the daily amount when combining wet and dry food.