Choosing cat food: how to buy food that suits your cat

Buying cat food seems simple until you are standing in front of a shelf or a long list of products. Are you looking for dry cat food, wet cat food, kitten food or simply a snack? Packaging often focuses on flavour, “premium” ingredients or appealing benefits. However, these terms do not always tell you enough about whether a product is suitable for everyday use.

Three common pitfalls are:

• Mistaking a snack for complete food. Cat soup, liquid treats and some meat snacks are complementary cat food. They are intended to be given alongside a complete meal, not as a replacement for one.
• Looking only at the flavour. Cat food with fish or cat food with chicken may appeal to your cat, but also check the age category, composition and nutritional status.
• Ignoring portion sizes. A small snack may seem harmless, but it should be included in the total daily amount. Measuring portions is particularly important with dry food and cat treats.

What should you look for when buying cat food?

1. Check whether it is complete or complementary food

The packaging should clearly state whether the product is complete cat food or complementary cat food. Complete food is formulated to serve as a main meal for the stated animal species and life stage. Complementary food, such as soup or a liquid treat, should be given as an extra.

For example, according to the product information, INABA Fun Bites Cat Chicken Wraps Tuna is a complementary food. The product contains 93% moisture and can be given as a treat or supplement. This makes it appealing for cats that do not drink much, but it does not replace a complete meal. Always provide fresh drinking water as well.

2. Choose according to age and life stage

A kitten has different nutritional needs from an adult cat. So check the product description:

• Kitten food: for kittens from weaning to around 12 months, depending on the label.
• Cat food for adult cats: formulated for mature animals.
• Senior food: only when this is clearly stated on the packaging and the composition is suitable for your cat.

According to the product description, Purina One Junior is intended for kittens from weaning to 12 months, as well as pregnant or nursing cats. Iams kitten food lists DHA, taurine, vitamins and minerals among its ingredients. Product details like these can be checked on the label; general marketing terms without nutritional information are less useful.

3. Compare moisture, portions and storage convenience

Wet food generally contains plenty of moisture and is available in tins, trays or pouches. This is practical if you want to measure out each meal. Dry cat food lasts longer after opening and is easy to portion with a measuring cup, but always provide fresh water.

When choosing wet food, check:

• the moisture percentage;
• the recommended daily amount;
• how long it can be kept after opening;
• whether leftovers can be stored in the fridge.

With cat biscuits, the bag weight, recommended portion and suitability for your cat’s age are important. A large pack can be good value if your cat tolerates the food well and you store it in an airtight container. Do not buy a large quantity straight away if you do not yet know whether your cat will like it.

Recommendations for different types of cat owner

The choices below are based on the available product information, such as age category, nutritional status, packaging, flavour and moisture content. Always check the current label and feeding guidelines on the packaging before buying.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

g'woon Adult Chunks in Jelly Veal & Chicken Multipack 12 pcs

Why it suits this profile: The multipack contains 12 portion pouches in a range of flavours, making it practical for daily meals, portioning or adding variety.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states that this is complete wet food for adult cats. This makes its nutritional status clearer than that of an individual snack or soup.

Main benefit & highlights

12 portion pouches, varieties with chicken, beef and salmon, and a high moisture content according to the product description.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality

Purina One Adult Salmon - Whole Grains - 800 g

Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, this variety is designed for adult cats aged one year and over and combines dry food with salmon as the first ingredient.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The recommended age and weight of 800 grams are clearly stated. This helps you avoid buying kitten food or an unnecessarily large supply.

Main benefit & highlights

Complete food for adult cats according to the product description, with a recipe featuring salmon and whole grains.

Suitable for: Specific needs & frequent users

INABA Fun Bites Cat Chicken Wraps Tuna

Why it suits this profile: Handy as a complementary treat, reward or moist addition alongside your cat’s usual meal.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The label explicitly states that this is complementary cat food. Do not use it as your cat’s complete daily food.

Main benefit & highlights

93% moisture, four stated flavours and portion guidance that takes your cat’s weight into account.

Suitable for: Families with a kitten

Purina One Junior Kitten Food Chicken & Grain Formula 800g

Why it suits this profile: This variety is specifically intended for kittens from weaning to 12 months and is available as dry food.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The age limit is stated in the product information. This makes it easier to distinguish kitten food from cat food for adult cats.

Main benefit & highlights

800-gram pack, chicken as a stated ingredient and nutritional information for the growth stage.

Frequently asked questions about cat food

Which cat food is suitable for an adult cat?

Choose a product that clearly states it is complete food for adult cats. Also check the recommended daily amount and adjust it according to your cat’s weight, activity level and any other food it receives. If you have concerns about a diet or health issue, it is sensible to consult a vet.

Is wet cat food better than dry food?

Wet and dry food have different practical benefits. Wet food generally contains more moisture and is often supplied in portions. Dry food is easy to store and measure. The right choice depends on your cat’s preference, the product’s nutritional status and your daily routine. You can combine both, provided you keep track of the total amount.

How long can you keep opened cat food?

Keep opened wet food covered in the fridge and follow the storage period stated on the packaging. Many products in the available information recommend using them within 48 hours. Use an opened pouch of cat soup or a snack according to the stated guidance. Seal dry food properly after opening and store it in a cool, dry place. Throw food away if its smell, colour or texture changes noticeably.