Joybuy Insights

Choosing cat food without costly mistakes: a practical guide to wet food, dry food and treats

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.

Common pitfalls when choosing cat food

1. Mistaking a treat for a complete meal

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.

2. Taking marketing claims at face value

Words such as “premium”, “natural” or “with meat” do not tell the whole story. Check:

  • the full composition;
  • the percentage of the named animal ingredient;
  • the analytical constituents;
  • whether it is labelled complete pet food or complementary pet food;
  • the suitable age and any specific target group.

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.

3. Buying a large pack without knowing your cat’s preferences

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.

Important points to check

Life stage and specific needs

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, dry cat food or a combination

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.

Complete, complementary and grain-free

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.

Our recommendations for different user profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Felix Premium Cat Food Vegetable Mix 12×85g

Felix Premium Cat Food Vegetable Mix 12×85g

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.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The portion packaging prevents an opened large tray from being left standing for too long. However, check whether your cat accepts the vegetable varieties.

Main benefit & advantages

According to the product information, this is complete cat food for adult cats, with 12 pouches and several flavours.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Farmina N&D Prime Cat Chicken 300 g

Farmina N&D Prime Cat Chicken 300 g

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.

How this product avoids the pitfall

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.

Main benefit & advantages

According to the product description, this is complete food with chicken, 36% protein, 20% fat and added taurine.

Suitable for: Specific use & experienced owners
Purina One Sterilcat Beef & Grain Formula Sterilized Adult Cat Food 800g

Purina One Sterilcat Beef & Grain Formula Sterilized Adult Cat Food 800g

Why it suits this profile: This variety is specifically labelled for sterilised or neutered adult cats and comes in a resealable 800-gram bag.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The target group is clearly stated. This prevents you from choosing standard food without taking into account the changed nutritional needs following sterilisation.

Main benefit & advantages

According to the product information, it contains 37% protein, 13% fat and a feeding chart based on body weight.

Suitable for: Families with a kitten
Whiskas Junior Classic Selection In Sauce Pouches Multipack 12×85g

Whiskas Junior Classic Selection In Sauce Pouches Multipack 12×85g

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.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The packaging explicitly states that this is complete food for kittens. This helps prevent you from giving adult cat food to a young cat.

Main benefit & advantages

The product information includes portion guidelines for kittens aged 3 to 12 months, along with taurine and vitamins.

Looking for more options?

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.

Frequently asked questions about cat food

Is wet cat food better than dry cat food?

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.

How long does cat food keep after opening?

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.

How can I save money on cat food without making the wrong purchase?

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.